Easy Star All-Stars

The Easy Star All-Stars are a musical collective known for their innovative reggae interpretations of classic albums and their original reggae compositions. Here are some key facts about the group:

1. Formation and Musical Style: The Easy Star All-Stars were formed in 2003 by members of the New York-based Easy Star Records label. The group's core lineup consists of Michael Goldwasser, Eric Smith, and Lem Oppenheimer, along with a rotating cast of talented musicians. The Easy Star All-Stars are known for their unique reggae sound, which blends elements of roots reggae, dub, and ska with influences from other genres such as rock, jazz, and electronic music.

2. Dub Side of the Moon: One of the Easy Star All-Stars' most iconic projects is their reggae reinterpretation of Pink Floyd's classic album "The Dark Side of the Moon". Released in 2003 under the title "Dub Side of the Moon", the album received widespread acclaim for its inventive arrangements and infectious grooves. The Easy Star All-Stars' reggae-infused take on Pink Floyd's psychedelic masterpiece introduced the band to a global audience and established them as pioneers of the genre-bending reggae movement.

3. Additional Album Projects: Building on the success of "Dub Side of the Moon", the Easy Star All-Stars went on to release several more reggae reinterpretations of iconic albums. These include "Radiodread" (2006), a reggae tribute to Radiohead's "OK Computer", and "Easy Star's Lonely Hearts Dub Band" (2009), a reggae version of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band". Each of these albums showcased the Easy Star All-Stars' ability to reinvent classic songs in their own distinctive reggae style while paying homage to the original artists.

4. Original Music and Collaborations: In addition to their album projects, the Easy Star All-Stars have released original reggae music, blending catchy melodies with socially conscious lyrics. The group's original compositions often explore themes of love, unity, and cultural identity, reflecting the spirit of reggae music. The Easy Star All-Stars have also collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including legendary reggae musicians such as Sugar Minott and The Meditations, as well as contemporary acts like Matisyahu and Citizen Cope.

5. Live Performances and Global Touring: The Easy Star All-Stars are known for their dynamic live performances, which feature energetic renditions of their original songs and reggae interpretations of classic albums. The group has toured extensively around the world, bringing their infectious grooves and positive vibes to audiences on every continent. Their electrifying live shows have earned them a dedicated fan base and solidified their reputation as one of the premier reggae acts on the international music scene.

In summary, the Easy Star All-Stars are a musical collective known for their groundbreaking reggae reinterpretations of classic albums and their original reggae compositions. With their innovative approach to blending genres and their infectious grooves, the Easy Star All-Stars continue to push the boundaries of reggae music and inspire audiences around the world.