When asked about Barry Ashworth, the founder of iconic UK reggae outfit DUB PISTOLS, 2018 Victoria Ska & Reggae Fest alumn DJ Jimi Needles just says, “He's the coolest man in the world.” After a bit more research on our end, we can confirm to you that indeed, Barry Ashworth is, at very least, in the top 5 coolest men on our planet. One of the most (in)famous UK reggae acts of all time, Dub Pistols has, according to the bands own recorded history, “burned through members and thousands of pounds on assorted capers and hedonism.” The sound that Dub Pistols champions is the classic sound and feel reggae soundsystems – tending the flame of the ska and dub rhythms that informed the birth of modern sounds like dubstep and grime. A set from Dub Pistols, DJ or otherwise, is going to take the crowd on a journey through everything reggae has to offer – its truly global reach and sonic diversity, its rich past, colourful present and powerful future.

Joining Dub Pistols for this deep journey through the future past of riddims is west coast legend MAT THE ALIEN. We've been a fans of Mat the Alien for awhile – one of the most versatile and reliable DJ s in the land – and when he mentioned to us that he'd be into putting together a special set of reggae and dancehall-inspired bass, we knew we had to get him onto our stage. To get things kicked off on this Night 1 party, local legends GREENLAW will be bringing their ultra-soulful drum 'n bass and hip-hop to our stage for the first time in over a decade! Far too long if you ask us. Come out, get sweaty and let's get Victoria Ska & Reggae Fest kicked off proper!