Rasta4Eyes

Rasta4Eyes are a seven-piece group from Merseyside, United Kingdom, active since 2008. They play a mix of ska, punk and reggae, with dub elements, and their sound is defined by brass harmonies, saxophone solos and lyrics that are delivered melodically. The band forms in late 2008 and develops a strong DIY and anti-establishment reputation early on.

Early releases and label

After forming, Rasta4Eyes sign to Do The Dog Music, a UK ska label. They release a split album with CBNS in 2009, titled Boss Sounds of the Boom & Bust. The record and the band’s live work help establish a local following, including gigs in the Wigan area.

Live activity

The group plays shows across the UK, including main stage festival appearances, support slots and headline dates. They are regular performers on the main stage at Strummercamp Festival, the annual tribute event for Joe Strummer, and also appear on the main stage at Bearded Theory Festival. Other festivals associated with the band include Boomtown Fair, Threshold, and the Kippertronix and Swansea Ska festivals in Wales.

Collaborations and shared bills

Rasta4Eyes perform alongside a wide range of acts from ska, punk, reggae and related scenes. These include Toots & The Maytals, The Beat, The Selecter, Dub Pistols, Dreadzone, The Aggrolites, Wheatus, Jaya The Cat, The Neville Staple Band, Gentleman's Dub Club, The Skints, Jeramiah Ferrari, Random Hand, Radical Dance Faction, Chumbawamba, New Town Kings, David Rodigan, Smiley Culture, Laid Blak, The Blockheads, The Damned and Billy Bragg. They also share bills with Reel Big Fish, The Skatalites, Capdown, Jah Shaka, Macka B, Alborosie, Natty, Zion Train, Tanya Stevens, The Slackers, OPM, The Filaments and Yes Sir Boss.

Style and themes

The band’s music combines smooth reggae grooves with fast-paced brass-led ska. Their lyrics often focus on social and political concerns, including unemployment, drug dealing, the economic climate affecting young people, and frustration at older generations’ attitudes. Songs mentioned in relation to the band include “Good Old Rock n Roll” and “Oscar & Arthur”.