We're all more than familiar with the term "blue-eyed soul." But if one were to mention "blue-eyed reggae," chances are, you'd probably think of ska music (i.e. Magic's "Rude," No Doubt's "Underneath It All," Sublime's "Santeria," UB40's "Red, Red Wine"). Well a quartet of New Yorkers called The Frightnrs aims to shatter those preconceptions by taking it back to the old school roots of reggae.
Standing on the shoulders of Caucasian-fronted predecessors like Blue Riddim Band, Dan Klein (vocals), Chuck Patel (organ/piano), Rich Terrana (drums/vocals) and Preet Patel (bass/vocals) have spent the past six years refining their sound — a heady blend of vintage Jamaican rocksteady and '80s rub-a-dub — and are garnering quite a bit of attention in the process. Now the Queens natives are hoping for breakthrough success with their third EP, Inna Lovers Quarrel, their debut project under famed DJ/producer Diplo's Mad Decent label.
The first visuals from the EP are for the infectious jam "Sharon," a catchy tune lamenting a break-up. Directed by Lou Auguste, the humorous short — shot on location at a Queens pizzeria and a Brooklyn tattoo parlor — weaves an interesting tale as it introduces us to the band and the titular object of their affection. While all of the band members have fallen victim to Sharon's "love 'em and leave 'em" game, one poor guy in particular seems to have taken it the hardest.
Check out the video below and marvel at Sharon's beguiling business savvy as you sway to de riddim. Keep scrolling down for more heartbreak with a cover of Etta James' "I'd Rather Go Blind" and then preview Inna Lovers Quarrel and visit iTunes to make it a permanent part of your collection. If you like what you're hearing and seeing, be sure to visit The Frightnrs' website for more music and follow them on social media for updates and upcoming performances.
