And just like that the Melbourne Ska Orchestra turns 20 Years Young, celebrating with a Best Of vinyl release, a brand new single and video, and a national tour!
From the fun loving humble beginnings in St. Kilda to the international stages of Glastonbury, Istanbul, Montreal, Edinburgh, New York and beyond, the band has steered their ramshackle train into the hearts of many.
“It’s been a pretty amazing adventure with the Melbourne Ska Orchestra. Born out of love for the genre back in 2003, the energy that all the musicians have invested has translated into a fun filled mission in the name of Ska. The music by its nature is a community event when performed and we’re lucky to have created a family vibe that has propelled this special thing we’ve created into a double decade story of Joy,” says Nicky Bomba.
To coincide with the limited edition Best Of vinyl release the band has also dropped a brand new single and video, ‘Something Strong’
Nicky enthuses, “We are totally excited to share our new single ’Something Strong’. This band has been nothing short of a sweet circus adventure and the lyrics reflect the journey we’ve had. I also love how we’ve captured the joyous spirit of the orchestra once again and can’t wait to play this live. Bless!”
He continues, “20 years young is a valid description of where we’re at as the excitement and creativity within the band is still burning strong. With our World Tours and Awards we know we’re doing something unique and positive in the music world. This single is a snapshot so far….so much more to come….. Long Live Melbourne Ska Orchestra! Long Live Ska!”
Initially formed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the birth of Ska (1963-2003), their infectious energy soon earned them a coveted slot at Bluesfest and WOMADelaide, a recording contract and accolades from all over the world. Two ARIA award wins cemented their reputation as one of Australia’s best live acts, while three of their songs were chosen for a UK feature film about Ska.
The band have matched the appreciation with a work ethic that is second to none. To date they have released 7 albums, including a nigh impossible mission of recording a song a week for a whole year, the ARIA award winning 52 Fridays – One Year of Ska.
This record celebrates the first 20-year chapter of a journey that is still going strong.
Melbourne Ska Orchestra will be hitting the road to bring their signature International Big Band Ska Sound to stages across the country.
MELBOURNE SKA ORCHESTRA – 20 YEARS YOUNG – TOUR (2023)
Saturday 17th March – Miami Marketta, Gold Coast, QLD
Saturday 18th March – Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns, QLD
Friday 24th March – The Triffid, Brisbane, QLD
Friday 31st March – Freo.Social, Fremantle, WA
Saturday 1st April – The Gov, Adelaide, SA
Saturday 8th April – Bluesfest Melbourne, VIC
Friday 14th April – Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW
Saturday 15th April – Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul, NSW
Saturday 22th April – Wandi Nut Festival, Wandilligong, VIC
Tickets on sale now from www.melbourneskaorchestra.com