In something of a homecoming gig, dub legends Dreadzone are playing the Scala in Kings Cross, headlining a show on December 8. The London-based band have been touring Europe-wide in support of a new album; this is their only date in the capital. Dance fans of a certain age speak fondly of the band who came to define an esoteric mix of electronic breakbeats and heavy bass-driven dubs which hit its peak in the mid nineties.
Dreadzone are probably best known to mainstream audiences by their only chart entry, 1996's eternally catchy 'Little Britain' (predating the similarly named sketch show by some years). But with a plethora of quality tuneage from six studio albums to draw from, including this year's 'Eye on the Horizon', they should have no trouble formulating a decent setlist.
Having been performing for the best part of twenty years - they are regulars on the music festival circuit - Dreadzone are experienced, highly polished live veterans, never more comfortable than when on a stage. Those under thirty might find the beats a little dated at times - their sound hasn’t progressed wildly since their nineties heydey, and younger attendees may appreciate the dubstep support act She is Danger more, but this is a chance to see some genuine masters of their game. Tickets at £16.50.
By John Nugent
