Skavoovie and the Epitones

Last updated
Skavoovie and the Epitones
Skavoovie.jpg
Background information
Origin Newton, Massachusetts
Genres ska
Years active1994–1999, 2024
Labels
Past membersKevin Micka
Ansis Purins
Ethan D'Ercole
Ben Jaffe
Eric Jalbert
Eugene Cho
Ben Herson
Daniel Neely
Jon Natchez
Ben Lewis
Joe Wensink
Jesse Farber
Rob Jost

Skavoovie and the Epitones Skavoovie & The Epitones is an American ska band formed in Newton, Massachusetts, in 1992. The band is recognized for integrating traditional Jamaican ska with jazz, big band, and other musical styles. From 1992 to 1999, the band released three studio albums and appeared on multiple compilations. They played a significant role in the third-wave ska movement of the 1990s. [1] In 2024, they reunited for a performance at the Supernova International Ska Festival, marking their first live appearance in over two decades. [2]

Contents

Early Years and Formation (1992–1995)

Fat Footin.jpg

The original members of Skavoovie and the Epitones included Ansis Purins (vocals), Ben Jaffe (tenor saxophone), Eugene Cho (keyboards), Jesse Farber (trumpet), Ben Herson (drums), Rob Jost (bass), Kevin Micka (guitar), Eric Jalbert (trumpet), Joe Wensink (euphonium), and Jon Natchez (baritone saxophone). The band later expanded to include Daniel Neely (guitar), Ben Lewis (trumpet), and Ethan D'Ercole (guitar.)

Demo Tape and Compilation Contributions (1994)

In 1994, the band self-released a demo tape titled An Evening with Skavoovie…. Their track "Nut Monkey" was included in the Skarmageddon compilation released by Moon Ska Records the same year. This exposure helped the band secure a recording contract with Moon Ska Records. [3]

Debut Album: Fat Footin' (1995)

The band’s debut album, Fat Footin', was released in 1995 through Moon Ska Records. It became one of the fastest-selling debuts on the label. [4] The album combined instrumental and vocal tracks, featuring a blend of ska, jazz, and big band influences. [5] Following the album's release, the band embarked on extensive U.S. tours.

Second Album: Ripe (1997)

Skavoovie Ripe.jpg

In 1997, Skavoovie & The Epitones released their second studio album, Ripe, produced by Victor Rice and engineered by Matt Ellard. [6] This album marked a shift in the band's musical direction, incorporating elements of jazz, sci-fi themes, and unconventional song structures. The release of Ripe was supported by more national touring and the band’s first European tour. [7]

Final Album: The Growler (1999) and Disbandment

TheGrowler.jpg

The band's third and final studio album, The Growler, was released in 1999 through Shanachie Records. [8] The album continued the band's exploration of jazz fusion and experimental composition, further moving away from traditional ska. After their final performance in 2000, Skavoovie & The Epitones disbanded.

Reunion at Supernova Ska Festival (2024)

In 2024, Skavoovie & The Epitones reunited for their first live performance in 24 years at the Supernova International Ska Festival. To coincide with the reunion, the band re-released their second album, Ripe, on digital platforms and with a double vinyl release and have plans to release live material in the future. [9] [10] [11]

Lineup

Discography

Studio albums

Singles & EPs

Compilations Appearances

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References

  1. "The Weird and Jazzy Adventures of Skavoovie & the Epitones". 29 August 2022.
  2. "Win Tickets to Supernova Ska Festival 2024 with the Selecter, Inspector, Roy Ellis". 30 August 2024.
  3. "The Weird and Jazzy Adventures of Skavoovie & the Epitones". 29 August 2022.
  4. "The Weird and Jazzy Adventures of Skavoovie & the Epitones". 29 August 2022.
  5. "Ten Underrated Moon Ska Records Albums to Listen to Next Time You Go Fedora Shopping". 27 September 2024.
  6. "Billboard". 23 August 1997.
  7. "Billboard". 24 January 1998.
  8. "CMJ New Music Report". 19 July 1999.
  9. "The Duff Guide to Ska: Skavoovie and the Epitones to Release 20th Anniversary Edition of "Ripe"!". 4 October 2017.
  10. "Skavoovie and the Epitones - Ripe Reissue (2xLP Vinyl)".
  11. "The Duff Guide to Ska: Duff Interview: Ansis Purins on the Return of Skavoovie (And "Zombre")!". 5 April 2011.