Having previously played at the Heavy Metal Buffet in 2016 and 2017, The Hostiles return to Shetland with their unique sunny US ska-punk style. Reflecting the transatlantic origins of the band members themselves, their sound is underpinned by the two-pronged bass backbone of double trombone. Drawing inspiration from the likes of NOFX, Capdown and King Prawn, the Ayr-based band have gone from strength to strength since launching their debut album Always Looking Forward in 2001.
Since then, the band have gone on to support Catch 22, Reel Big Fish and Less Than Jake, and played solo shows across the world. In August 2019, they released their latest album Love and Lacerations, featuring a refreshed lineup including Josh Barron (guitar/vocals), Steve Bruce and Joe Stainke (trombones), Theo Watson (bassist/vocals) and Hunter Mackay (drums).
Hailing from Shetland, 'genre bending’ four piece Big Time Quell are proud to stand out on an island most famous for its traditional music scene. Fresh from their live debut in 2016 supporting legendary rockers The Blockheads, they released their debut EP, titled Greatest Hits. The EP received attention in national magazines such as FourFourTwo, who proclaimed the song Back Of The Net as 'the best Spurs related song since Chas & Dave'.
The group features members of prominent Shetland acts such as First Foot Soldiers, Giant (featured in publications such as Prog magazine) and Trookers. Band members Jamie Hatch, Thomas Jones, Chris Cope and Robert Balfour present an eclectic fusion of 80s rock, gypsy jazz, ska and synth pop for fans of Ween, Flight of the Conchords, Mr Bungle and Queens Of The Stone Age.
Super Saturday with The Hostiles and Big Time Quell takes place at Mareel on Saturday 25th January 2020 at 8.30pm. Tickets are priced at £10, and can be booked in person at Mareel or at the Shetland Arts outlet at Sumburgh Airport, by phone on 01595 745500, or online here.
