Dub Pistols

Dub Pistols

Dub Pistols are a London-based group active since 1996, led by Barry Ashworth and made up of Barry Ashworth, Dave Budgen, Tim Hutton, T.K. Lawrence and Jason O'Bryan. Their sound sits mainly in dub and electronic music, while also drawing on hip-hop, techno, ska, punk, breakbeat and drum & bass.

Background and style

The group begins as a DJ sound system that Barry Ashworth starts with Jason O'Bryan in the mid-1990s. From early singles for Concrete Records onwards, they build a reputation for mixing dance music with a rock and roll attitude. Their music is described as a cross-genre blend that pushes dub and electronic styles together with elements from UK club culture and punk energy.

Releases and collaborations

Dub Pistols move from early tracks such as Cyclone, Westway and There’s Gonna Be A Riot into albums including Six Million Ways To Live after the turn of the millennium. That record marks a more political direction and includes their first collaboration with Specials singer Terry Hall. Other guest vocalists associated with the group include Rodney P, Gregory Isaacs, Ashley Slater, Lindy Layton, Justin Robertson, Horace Andy, Akala, TK from New York and Red Star Lion.

The group also releases Worshiping the Doller and White Lines. White Lines is their sixth album and features guest appearances from Earl 16, Seanie T, Dark Horizon, Rodney P, Serocee, Darrison, Sir Real, Ashley Slater and Barry Ashworth. Tim Hutton also contributes dub-style horns on the album.

Live reputation

Dub Pistols are known for being a regular live act on the festival circuit, with a broad set of styles that includes ska, dub, hip-hop, electro, breakbeat, punk and drum & bass. Their performances are associated with a lively, high-energy approach and a strong sense of crowd entertainment.