biographical info
Must-see Ska!
Toronto's favourite late bloomer, Prince Perry
channels his coming of age soundtrack idols of Elvis Costello, Terry Hall and
Joe Strummer into a unique blend of pleasing ska infused rock and
roll that leaves you feeling like it’s not too late to be happy with your life.
Or at least someone else's whom you know well enough to borrow their car.
Known to Toronto scenesters as a founding member of
ska combo Frankie Foo and the Yo Yo Smugglers, Perry's formation of The
Gladtones, marks the beginning of his career as a solo artist. His debut album
‘Songs About Girls’ (Winterbeard Records) was driven by a true passion for ska,
reggae and one of his favourite distractions. One year later, Perry’s sophomore
record, an engaging, bum-shaking, six-song EP entitled ‘Whatever You Can Get
Away With’ shows substantial growth, both in songwriting skill and presentation.
Both records are produced by Mitch ‘King Kong’ Girio (Emma-Lee, The Kingpins,
The Expos) and chart regularly on numerous campus / community stations across
Canada, while receiving regular airplay from CBC Radio One and Radio 3.
Perry’s backing band, The Gladtones, feature a number
of noteworthy musicians. On Keys: Ryan Chopik and Meher Steinberg (White
Cowbell Oklahoma, King Apparatus), Drums: Greg Matthews, Trumpet: Jan Hughes
(Frankie Foo), Bass: Brendan Bauer (The Midways), and Mitch Girio on Guitar.
Since their first sold out CD release show, Prince Perry & The Gladtones
have built a reputation as one of the most talented and exciting live ska bands
in Canada.
Regulars at the Legendary
Horseshoe Tavern, Prince Perry is also the Toronto go-to support band for
touring ska/reggae acts like The Aggrolites, The Aquabats and The Toasters.
influences
Desmond Dekker
Laurel Aitken
Toots Hibbert
The Clash
The Selector
Lee Scratch Perry
The Specials