Newport Ska, Reggae and Rocksteady Festival + Roots Collective Present: Stranger Cole (JAM) and The Moonhops – UP CLOSE TOUR.

His name may be “Stranger” but he’s no stranger to the city that has been his second home since his visit in 2010 at the invitation of the Melbourne Ska Orchestra.

The beloved Ska, Rocksteady and Reggae pioneer returns to Melbourne in November for two intimate shows at Bar 303 (Saturday 11 November) and the Reggae Cruise (Saturday 18 November).

Despite a tremendous cult following and the potential to sell out large venues, Stranger has deliberately chosen to do only two select shows – giving his “Melbourne family”, as he calls them, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to hear and experience Jamaican music royalty up close and personal.

PBS FM musicologist Mohair Slim has curated a special set list that will see Stranger Cole perform his biggest hits (Bangarang, Artibella, Rough and Tough etc.) and also some incredible ska, rocksteady and reggae rarities he has never played before on world stages.

Providing backing sounds is Melbourne all-star aggregation, The Moonhops. For this very special occassion, they will feature a full horn section and guests.

Tickets for 303:
http://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/stranger-cole-jamaica-the-moonhops-up-close-tour/99164#CpDBXI7ot5GBkf4u.99

Tickets for The Reggae Cruise:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/reggae-cruise-10-tickets-38625089683