2003 debut EP from Edmonton's punk reggae champs! ...One of the deadliest musical forces to emerge from the Canadian underground. Using sound as a weapon, they have brought a new face and perspective to both punk and ...
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2003 debut EP from Edmonton's punk reggae champs!
...One of the deadliest musical forces to emerge from the Canadian underground. Using sound as a weapon, they have brought a new face and perspective to both punk and reggae music...
The Operators *780* are a young 5-piece band from the Edmonton,AB, Canada area code of 780. Fusing sounds and attitudes together into a special blend of punky reggae, the Operators create heavily rhythmic and dynamic music that is both innovative and exciting.
Five personalities. The band and sound consists of a heavy bass'n'drum riddim section, supplied by Chris Bateman and Ian Whitham, respectively. Brad Nattrass and his signature guitar style add a thicker and punkier element to the music. The funky overtones of the echo saxophone is provided by Mike Garth. And to bring things full circle, Eric Budd shouts his voice using the Hammond organ and microphones.
The 'Power Version' recording of the Operators has just been released in EP format on Longshot Music,NYC. Songs included are uptempo live staples such as "Stop & Think","State of Emergency" and a re-styled version of "4 Ways". This is the first official Operators release. A first attempt at touring east in Canada will be made this August in support of the 'Power Version' EP. Dates include major cities in Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Alongside the EP came a sold-out CD release show and the cover story for Edmonton's VUE Weekly.
The Operators recently performed as part of this year's line-up for the 4th Annual Victoria Ska Festival (July). Headlining acts included the Slackers (NYC), the Kingpins (Montreal), & Chris Murray backed by the Aggrolites (LA).
A DIY release 'the Lakeside Sessions' was released last year (fall 2002). The sounds of the new recording definitely represent a step forward and new direction for the Operators. The Operators are also featured on the All-Skanadian IV Compilation (Stomp/Union label) with their song "Hawaii '93". The Operators headlined the compilation release party shows on the west coast (February 2003)... all of which sold-out.
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