The Simmertones

The Simmertones

The Simmertones are a Devon-based Jamaican ska group active since 2007. They perform as a nine-piece line-up with Rob Murphy on drums, Del Anning on bass, Keith Waller and Ray Beavis on saxophone, Rich Mills on trumpet, Sam Smith on trombone, Jamie Stretch Watkin on guitar, Tom Crowe on keys and Glyn Wilcox on vocals. The group’s members have played ska together for decades.

Style and background

The Simmertones work in traditional ska and ska-jazz, with an emphasis on authentic Jamaican ska. Their Devon roots and large horn-led line-up place them within the South West British ska scene.

Activity and performances

The band builds a following through regular South West venues and has appeared at festivals including Plymouth’s Respect Festival, Kingsbridge Music Fest and the Newt Beer Festival. They also move into recording, with their first studio session produced by Digby Smith, who has worked with artists including Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, ELO, Sparks and Rod Stewart.