NOTIZIE PRINCIPALI
The first generation ska hailed from the tropical island Jamaica. About twenty years later a second generation of ska bands emerged from the cold and rainy England. Almost two decades on the United States appeared to be the scene of a third generation ska bands. Meanwhile we’re in the 21st century and a fourth generation of ska is crying for attention. The place of origin is Roermond, a small town in the southeast of The Netherlands. And the band that gives its own interpretation to the sound of this new generation is called Sideshift Hary.
The band Sideshift Harry formed in March 2000, when three friends decided to collectively create music. They found two other musical friends, which completed the band. Already at an early stage there was clarity about the music these persistent five friends wanted to make. It had to be a combination of ska, punk and reggae. Other musical styles were included and by combining these various styles - with punk, reggae and ska as the main focus points - Sideshift Harry created their trademark sound.
But it’s not only the music that makes Sideshift Harry stand out from the numerous punk and ska bands that populate the Dutch music scene. The band’s stage act is yet as infectious as their songs. Their unbridled energy and dry sense of humour during their performances appear to have a major appeal on the audience, which has already resulted in a loyal fan base.
Within the first year of the band’s existence Sideshift Harry released a CD, entitled ‘No u-Turn’. And from then on there is no way back, as the band’s regularly performing, which increases the growth of The Harries’ reputation.
In 2002 ‘The Bathroomclub’ is released, the first Sideshift Harry single. The B-side is ‘Zupa Granny’, an almost epical ska/punk song and live favourite. A twelve minute version of the song appears on the band’s first full-length album ‘Denkska’, along with (amongst others) ‘The Bathroomclub’ and a new version of the song ‘Birthday Girl’.
The band outdone their selves both musically and production-wise with the release of their next record, ‘The Original EP’, which was released in the summer of 2005. The five track disc includes the song ‘Zoka’, for which a video was shot in October 2005.
After having been the support act for bands like Beef, Mark Foggo and Jaya The Cat, In November 2005 the band performs at both De Effenaar in Eindhoven and Paradiso in Amsterdam. The band could also be found at festivals in Belgium and Germany.
The band’s music, which is often being described as power ska or neurotic ska, is guaranteed to have people partying everywhere. Never a dull moment with Sideshift Harry. Or as David Smits, the ever so energetic drummer of the band, always puts it: “Keep tha sun shining!”
Bartho Waeyen 17 settembre 2005 04:41