AKA The Syndicate are a collective of musicians from various ska, reggae and punk bands. Gary Knight came up with the concept in 2020 during lockdown when live music was off the table – musicians from across the scene collaborated remotely and created the self-titled AKA The Syndicate - an album of original ska, reggae and punk influenced music. After excellent reception from fans on the first release, a second album 'It's Our World' has now been recorded and crowdfunded by fans and will be released in 2023. Despite it never being the original intention, AKA The Syndicate now performs as a live band, already securing festival slots across the UK, support slots with Bad Manners and an international booking to play alongside USA ska band The Slackers in Germany.

“They came onstage and launched straight into 'Two Sides of The City' which set the stall out for the night ahead. Infectious and catchy soul grooves were on offer. There must be a big interest in the band as the hall was already three quarters full” - Brighton and Hove News (On Bad Manners support, Concorde 2)

“A pop-tinged reggae album that brings to mind a wide variety of other bands, from Madness at their most successful to very early UB40, and maybe even a hint of No Doubt thrown in for good measure." - Scootering Magazine

From the UK, Sharp Class are a British power trio consisting of Oliver Orton on guitar and lead vocals, Billy Woodfield on bass guitar and Declan Mills on the drums. Just as their name implies, the trio have a sharp image, one that gives the band its unique flair amongst a crowd. However, Sharp Class extend beyond looks and presentation. Their songs are grounded in realism and spattered with an English essence, while seamlessly merging the illustrious DNA of Punk, Soul, Power-Pop, Britpop and Rock n’ Roll. Though that is not enough, as a prominent magnetism within Sharp Class ensures that their live shows burst with enough energy to light up London.

Wherever Sharp Class go, they always deliver an exciting performance. In May 2023, the group travelled to New England to take part in a series of concerts. Their three-night run included shows in Rhode Island, Portland, and Somerville, each of which showcased the unparalleled dynamism of the trio to international audiences. Their performances were thoroughly enjoyed by all attendees, who were left enthralled by the band’s engaging and entertaining performance.