KEV WATSON
The Skapones have always been a fluid vehicle. People have always come and gone but it is with a heavy heart tonight we can announce the sad departure of bassie Kev Watson on September 3rd. He's been a joy to have around but he wont be vanishing fully- he has offered to dep should we ever need one.
Kev has this to say:
"...it was a welcome culture shock going from 3 or 4 piece punk bands doing 20-40 minute sets to an 8 piece ska band with a brass section doing 2-3 hour sets, i found playing ska to be very enjoyable, i love the cohesion within the band and thrive on the energy and the sometimes challenging aspects of some of the bass lines, I LOVE being challenged! everyone in the band brings something to the Skapones table being brilliant musicians and all round top blokes who are a solid, knitted and well honed unit. I love the cut and thrust of recording with the band which is a highly polished and very professional process, in my time with the band weve recorded and released 5 7" singles and cd's plus several more on compilation albums all of which I am very proud to be a part of. The Skapones are primarily a live band and during my 3 and a half years or so with the band weve played over 150 gigs (it wouldve been near double that if not for the sodding rona!) from Scotland to the South Coast and all points in between from massive halls to tiny pubs and ive enjoyed each gig because wherever we play we light up the room and even the grumpiest old Hectors have fun! I found lasting friendships in the bands members which will continue to grow over the coming years. Unfortunately for me Ive had to make the really hard decision to leave the band due to wanting to spend time with my lovely wife who thankfully is steadily regaining her mobility following surgery earlier in the year and the pressures of increasing workload getting in the way of our busy gig and studio schedule. This was a really tough decision for me to make but i had to look at my work, home and band lives; needing to attend to the first 2 will of course impact on my ability to commit fully to the 3rd, I am of course always here if 4 stringed cover is ever needed. I dont know whats down the road for me musically, maybe something, maybe nothing who knows, thats for future Kev to worry about, for now im very proud of my time as a Skapone and will miss the music, gigs and camaraderie...The Skapones; 10 years and up!..."
GEORGE STEAD
With the departure of bassie Kev on Sept 3rd, we can also announce the ARRIVAL of new member, GEORGE STEAD on Bass Guitar duties.
A quality guitarist in his own right, and lots of experience under his young belt, George deputised for us in Kent this year on bass and proved solid as a rock on the 4 strings. We welcome George to the fold and We're sure you guys will make him feel at home.
George says Hi...
"... I'm ecstatic to say the least to be joining The Skapones on Bass Guitar. Can’t wait to be up on the stage with them getting some great experiences under my belt. my first gig is going to be travelling overseas to Ireland to headline the sunday of the Irish International Ska and Reggae Festival. What a way to start eh!!!! I Couldn’t be happier, Bring it on!... "
Welcome George!
