The Toasters

The Toasters have had so many musicians pass through them over the decades that it’s a wonder this epic band is still alive and kicking after thirty years. It seems, though, that it is this constant infusion of new talent that keeps their sound as fresh as it was in 1981 when Bucket Hingley (the only original member of the band still present) formed the group. For The Toasters, ska is all about having a great time, and this is the golden rule when going to one of their concerts. Even if you wanted to be miserable during a show– and why would you? – you’d find it impossible not to have the time of your life while the band showers you with their energetic ska-pop-R&B hybrid sound.

During their performance in Ireland early this year, the group got things started on the right foot by opening with ‘Dog Eat Dog’. As the beat really kicked in halfway through the song, I couldn’t stop myself from dancing. And I wasn’t alone. Song after song came and went too quickly, and before I knew it the band was ending their set with their classic ‘Don’t Let the Bastards Grind You Down’. Thank goodness there was a three-song encore because there was no way anybody in the audience was prepared to let them leave after that corker. Definitely catch The Toasters live while you still can. Their gig was the best nights out I’ve had in a while!

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