High Tone's universe has expanded over the last ten years, mixing strings, percussions and samples to become a fully blossomed reference on the international nu-dub scene. Their music is a breath of life, leading you off the beaten track while still being aware of its heritage and specific musical codes. As a result, the group are able to satisfy the purists while still building up a new following among electro and world-music amateurs.
The Lyon-based quintet has taken classic dub along towards more unexpected combinations. Rather that machine-based blending, the five Tones have opted for a choice of live guitars/bass/drums/DJ/keyboards, in order to provide their sound with this organic texture.
Over the years and albums, High Tone has embedded its dub with sonic distortions, hip-hop gimmicks, down tempo rhythms, creating a wholly original sound. Their fifth album has been presented through two discs, showing how rich and diverse the band's influences are, from Portishead, Scorn and Boogie Down Productions, to Lee scratch Perry, Digital Mystikz and Bästard.
High Tone will perform upstairs at Kelly's on Wednesday 19 May. Doors are open from 9pm and admission is €15.
