Dubtones

Dubtones are an Irish ska punk band from Dublin. They form in 1999 and later reform in October 2004 after an earlier run that lasts only around 14 months. The group plays a high-energy mix of punk, ska and reggae, and the line-up changes over time.

Early formation

The original band forms with Whelo and Longo, joined by two former bandmates, Hughie and Gipo, from the defunct Stigmatamartyr. This first version plays a handful of gigs before splitting. During that period, the band records a 14-track set called Whole New Nation Demos, which is not released.

Reformation and releases

When the band reforms in 2004, the line-up is Whelo on lead vocals and guitar, Gipo on bass and vocals, Noel on lead guitar, and Swampy on drums. Their first gig follows three weeks later. They spend the next period playing support slots for punk and ska acts.

In January 2006, Dubtones record their first release, the six-track EP One for the Road, which combines punk, ska and roots reggae. By 2010, the band has become a three-piece and releases its first full-length album, End of Transmission.

Later activity

Dubtones continue gigging and recording as a three-piece.