Two-tone act The Selecter bring 40th anniversary tour to The Apex next month

Influential two-tone Ska act The Selecter are embarking on a 40th Anniversary Tour with special guest Rhoda Dakar and are due at The Apex, next month.

The Selecter are still led by their iconic frontwoman Pauline Black and co-fronted by original member Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson.

Often referred to as the Queen of Ska and a crucial figure in the music community, Black is also an actress, author and celebrated style icon.

The band released their debut album “Too Much Pressure” in 1980; mixing punk, ska and reggae, it successfully reflected the social and political issues of the early Thatcher years and gave a voice to disaffected youth across the racial divide.

The anarchic passion that fuelled Selecter gigs during the original two-tone era is still there, and the pair are more driven than ever. 

Their confidence is sky-high and they’re also writing the best songs of their career, which is saying something given the enduring popularity of hits like “Three Minute Hero,” “Missing Words,” “Too Much Pressure” and “On My Radio.”

The Selecter are to appear at The Apex on Friday, November 15, where you can hear an extended, hit-rich set with added live favourites and surprises. They will be joined for a few songs by vocalist Rhoda Dakar, who will also play a DJ Set to open the nights.

Her career began as lead vocalist with all-female two-tone band The Bodysnatchers, who’s first single was the double A-side “Let’s Do Rocksteady’”/”Ruder Than You”. Rhoda also later sang and collaborated with The Specials.

See www.theapex.co.uk or ring 01284 758000 for more information or to book tickets.