Dreadzone

Event information

Grooving Dancehall Dubsters

Back after a fantastic show in spring 2009

In 2009, Dreadzone are set to roll like thunder with a new album and an explosive new single that sounds like no one else and is a timely reminder of the depth and originality of this unique British group. The new single 'Beyond A Rock' will be out on July 6 to download from iTunes, Play, Amazon, Napster, e-Music, 7-Digital, Nokia, HMV Digital and all good online record stores! 'Beyond A Rock' pumps with a bass heavy swagger, rock guitar, electro riffs and fat drums underpinning a memorable vocal hook and a rap of relentless drama. Recorded by capturing their live feel and then mixed by breakbeat sonic maestro Inchie (Ctrl Z ) this is an adrenalin rush of a tune that defies genre and straddles the worlds of rock and dance effortlessly. Founder member Greg Dread, original bassmaster Leo Williams, the unmistakable MC Spee, legendary reggae vocalist Earl 16 alongside new members Chris Compton on guitar and Chris Oldfield on technology make up the current team of dreadz. A full live schedule gives them chance to try the new tracks out on eager crowds. Their dynamic live show has been central to the story since the early days and will continue to blow away audiences worldwide. More natty than ever, Dreadzone return with a summer download single and a tour as long as yer arm!

Now in their 17th year Dreadzone have released five artist albums, one of which was cited by John Peel as one of his top ten of all time, toured their inimitable live show the world over and even found time to squeeze in a top 20 hit in the form of 'Little Britain'.

Unfortunately the death of guitarist Steve Roberts, brother of founder member Greg, in 2006 beset the group with an unbelievable tragedy. But Dreadzone have set out to pick themselves up and do what they do best, take to the road with two new members, fresh energy and brand new material.

So now founder member Greg Dread, the original bassmaster Leo Williams, the unmistakable MC Spee and legendary reggae vocalist Earl 16 return with new input from the fresh faces and continue to hold the stage with an awesome live show, playing classic tunes both old and new to deliver a unique sound. Chris Compton is the new face on guitar, while another Chris, namely long term friend of the band Chris Oldfield, will be taking care of the laptop and DJ side of the new live setup.

Fusing technology with human rhythms, dub bass collides with dance beats, live guitar and bubbling electronics, all united by energetic MCing and sweet reggae vocals. The future may hold many challenges but Dreadzone once again rise up and confound expectations. With new tunes on the boil, this year will hold quite a few suprises as the band move forward and continue to shatter preconceptions.

"One of the most interesting groups around" The Independent
"In the tradition of Lee Perry and Holgar Czukay" The Times
"Witty, inspired soundscapes" The Guardian