Skatalites

1998 - Engine House #9 - El Paso, TX

A lull hung over the crowd that had formed for one of the best select shows that passed through El Paso, TX. The buzz was all about the "Skatalites."

More people showed up to this show earlier than normal. Not too many concert tours come through El Paso compared to the number of hits other large cities acquire. The "Voo Doo Glow Skulls" have come through El Paso at least 3 or 4 times this year alone, and plan on returning. Ska bands like "The Slackers", "Mob Town", "Reel Big Fish" and a few others have blown through this panhandle for a single show each.

In anticipation people moved from the bar area to the floor in this warehouse type club, and looked upon the stage. The opening bands had the floor moving a little with their appeal. "Fixed Idea" and "Liquid Cheese" are fresh new local bands for El Paso that do pretty good for the small ska scene here. Mostly teens held the beat for this one dancing to these young horn players.

No need for any special light show or special effects, the "Skatalites" graced the stage with their electrifying stage presence at Engine House #9.

Everybody pulsed as one to the beat of Jamaican reggae and ska. The whole floor moved ~ dancing, some couples swinging to the sound. Cheers and clapping repeatedly erupted whenever something was said or any kind of lead part was dealt to the hungry crowd. The horns took turns as many of us watched in awe of such talent each member had - yet had unity as if they were all family.

The "Skatalites" were famous for being a back-up band for the late and talented Bob Marley, as well as for Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Dekker, and many others. They are recognized as the number one ska band in the world.

Tommy McCook formed the band in 1962. From '65 to the early 80's the band was split up due to a death in the band. The band's only drummer, Lloyd Knibb has been rated the number one ska drummer of the world. Lloyd Brevett as well, is known as the grass roots of ska. The band still has four of it's original members. The Skatalites named themselves after the first space satellites. Special guest vocalists often gracing the Skatalites songs include Doreen Shaffer and Prince Buster.

Even though these band members ages range from their 50's - 70's they still rock the house as the founders of ska. Their talent and experience shows on stage. This is not a band that only has talent in the studio. "Ska,Ska,Ska" was performed excellently even without the studio backing vocals.

Doreen Shaffer, known as "The Queen of Ska", joined the men or ska and reggae on stage for several hits known from her vocals. Great music with a very talented woman to grace the lyrics. Doreen's smooth sailing voice had the crowd singing along with her. Her smile as all cheered for her showed her appreciation. Songs like "You're Wondering Now" and "Can't You See" had some of us confused as whether to dance or watch every movement on stage.

Doreen Shaffer has been a singer for the Skatalites since the early 60's. When I spoke with her after the show - she, like the rest of the band was proud yet humble of their talent and achievements. As we talked backstage, Doreen turned to me putting her hand on mine as to tell me a secret as she told me she always loved doing the shows. She had a youthful glow and a twinkle in her eye. Dressed very casual in her sweat pants and T-shirt,and sneakers ~ she was still a "Diva."

"Thank you for coming.", she quietly said as I gratefully thanked her for such a pleasure. My 10 year old daughter stood in awe of her after getting her autograph and stood there with wide eyes and interest as Doreen talked. Doreen stood up and hugged her, telling her to keep up the good work in life and told her that she was happy she enjoyed the show. Doreen grabbed my hand pulling me into an unexpected hug and wished me well in my own singing endeavors.

Many of the instrumental songs are very uplifting and flow with a smoothness. "The Guns Of Navarone" was so powerful it itself had an encore. "Magic Star" was also greatly appreciated by fans and recognized as well as a known song.

The sax players were modest and would wave the crowd to stop cheering after solos or lead parts in songs. The fans would cheer in appreciation for their amazing talent and ability but the band felt it not necessary but to keep on with the ska.

It was genuinely a happy show. There were even hippy "spinners" spinning to the groove on the back area of the dance floor. Many generations were there in recognition of the Skatalites. All ages had the same interest in the music at hand, and the whole show had a very nice feeling to it. Not many judgments or hate were acknowledged.

Many of us would be very happy if the Skatalites played for many years to come.....

Written by Skye Wheeler