Band: Ska Daddyz
Date: 10-24-2024
Venue: Tony’s Pizzaria – Ventura CA.
Some of the joys of being in a small beach city are the creative venues to see some great bands. You never know the kind of audience that will show up. The night turns into an experience of finding a new place to see either a new band or one you have enjoyed before.
This night we are at Tony’s Pizzeria in Ventura, CA. It is an outdoor venue that fits the bill. The pizza was average but the “surf city” environment and ocean breeze definitely makes up for the pizza. The Pacific Ocean is just a quarter mile away. It’s a family-friendly environment where the nightly locals seem to appreciate the mix of new people and regulars of all ages. It’s small enough that some of the bands on stage are from the area and play music that fits the vibe of the city.
We were actually there to see the Stoneflys which is a band that is not as local anymore but have members that are from the area. Upon arrival we watched the band loading in and I realized that this was not the Stoneflys. I was pleasantly surprised to find out we were going to see the Ska Daddyz instead. We immediately took to our phones to see if I got the date right. I found that I was not mistaken but others found that the Ska Daddyz were playing. Not sure what happened there but it was a no-brainer to decide to stay.
The Ska Daddyz have been around since 1993. The beats are tight and the horns are flowing. The band members were a mixed bunch that appeared to be a melting pot of jazz percussionist, life long brass players and aging surfers. The blend matched the audience. Their musicianship was proof they have been playing together for a decades. Whether they were all original members or not, it seemed they have played together for years.
Ska is a music genre that was created in Jamaica in the 1950’s. It is mix of Calypso, Rhythm and Blues, and American Jazz. It brings out the groove from people. The dance floor was full and the applause was loud. The Ska Daddyz were a perfect fit for the night. If you want a reason to get up and move to your hearts desire, you are are the right show. The mix of originals and a few covers kept everyone satisfied. Their rendition of Bob Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff” was fun. Everyone loved it.
The night felt like a party and the band was a blast . Nothing like pizza, beer, a live band, and the ocean air. It’s the perfect combination.