The first time many people knowingly heard David Hillyard was on Give ‘Em the Boot II, a Hellcat Records compilation of punk, ska and reggae artists hand-picked by Rancid band founder, Tim Armstrong. At the time, many ska and punk fans knew nothing of the first wave bands like the Skatalites. However, one track, “The Fool” by The David Hillyard Rocksteady 7, stood out among the rest for its earworm hook, infectious beat, and old-school sound. Hillyard also played as part of the backing ska band for Rancid, along with the seminal NY ska band, The Slackers. Basically, this guy gets as old school as can be while still being this side of the dirt.
Fri, Apr 3, 7pm, Free
SJZ Break Room, San Jose
