From cover songs to movies, remakes are ubiquitous rarely approach the popularity of the original. No album will repeat the success of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” which was on the record charts for 15 years. However, the Easy Dub Allstars 2003 “Dub Side of the Moon” was brilliant.
From the first cough after a bong hit on the opening track, the band’s founders Michael Goldwasser, Eric Smith, Lem Oppenheimer and Remy Gerstein captured the spirit of the multi-layered masterpiece, interpreting and presenting it reggae style.
The concept led to more reggae and dub version of iconic albums: “Radiodread” (2006), “Easy Star’s Lonely Hearts Dub Band” (2009), “Easy Star’s Thrillah” (2012). In 2010 the band remixed its first album with“Dubber Side of the Moon” (2010).
According to press materials, the band has averaged 100 shows a year since 2008, playing upon six continents in 30 countries. Reggae is popular across the globe.
The band has been celebrating the 10th anniversary of the release of “Dub Side of the Moon” with full plays of the album at many of their shows. The band has added new visuals during “Dub Side of the Moon” for select shows including an appearance Friday, Sept. 12 in the Crystal Bay Casino’s Crown Room.
A reissue of the classic album was released on July 22 with new artwork, an in-depth liner note booklet and two bonus tracks, including a new version of the song “Breathe” featuring additional vocals by Eric Rachmany of Rebelution, Metric Man, and Ruff Scott of the Easy Star All-Stars.
The tour band members typically include Buford O’Sullivan (trombone), Cliff Simpson (drums), Elenna Canlas (keyboards, vocals), Ive-09 (drums), Jenny Hill (saxophone, flute), Joanne Williams (vocals), Kirsty Rock (vocals), Ras I Ray (bass, vocals), Ruff Scott (DJ vocals), Shelton Garner Jr. (guitar, vocals).
Easy Star Allstars
‘Dub Side of the Moon Anniversary Tour’
When: 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12
Tickets: $20 in advance or $23 on the day of the show
