The Skanx (UK)
The Skanx are an 11-piece band from South-east London. Our music combines classic Ska with influences from funk, jazz and trip-hop. We play a mix of well-known and obscure cover versions as well as our own unique material. The band features vocalists Lori and Wayne, plus the 5-piece Skanky Horns. Our line-up:
Lori: Vocals
Wayne: Vocals, MC
Simon: Organ, Wurlitzer Electric Piano, Stylophone
Nick: Guitar
Tom: Fretless Bass
Paul: Drums
Wendy: Trumpet
Stuart: Trumpet, Percussion
Ratty: Alto and Tenor Saxes
Joe: Tenor Sax, Flute
Steve: Tenor and Baritone Saxes
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
The Skanx were founded in 2008 by saxophonist Ratty, guitarist Rafe and bassist Raddeck. By the middle of the year we were a 10-piece with a 5-piece horn section and vocalist/lyricist Lori. Towards the end of 2008, the rhythm section decided to part on amicable terms and were replaced by Nick (guitar), Tom (fretless bass) and Paul (drums).
2009 has been a fantastic year so far, and we are pleased to welcome on board vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and MC Wayne, bringing the band up to an 11-piece!
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
We have recently played gigs from the South Coast to North London. Two regular venues are the Royal Oak in Anerley and the World's End in Finsbury Park. We also played a short set as guests at "Penge's Got Talent" and appeared at the "Fiends Reignited" mini-festival near East Grinstead.
Your musical influences
Classic and Two-tone ska, reggae, funk, jazz, blues.
Toots and the Maytals, The Specials, The Skatalites
What equipment do you use?
Lori: Shure SM-58 microphone
Nick: Yamaha Pacifica guitar, Crate PowerBlock amp, lots of pedals...
Tom: Fender fretless Jazz Bass, MarkBass amp
Simon: Casio WK-3000, Wurlitzer 200A, Dubreq Stylophone, no-name 30-watt guitar amp
Anything else?
Our debut EP is available for download at
