City News
Ska Day Excitement Unleashed: Join ‘The Originals’ in Sedona!
The Red Dirt Concert Series is set to wrap up its eighth season on Friday, Sept. 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Posse Grounds Pavilion. The finale will showcase Rick Cucuzza’s opening act, evoL-ution, followed by the headlining performance of The Originals, a band known for their tribute to the ska genre.
Parks and Recreation Special Events Coordinator Jason Vargo expressed excitement for the closing show, describing it as a “big, fun, ska-filled blowout.” The Originals, hailing from Flagstaff, focus on ’90s ska music, embodying the upbeat and lively essence that the genre represents.
Eddie Waters, frontman of The Originals, promised attendees an entertaining performance. “We’re all about fun,” he stated. “Everyone’s going to have a good time, and be able to dance.” The band records every show, and Waters remarked on the joy and energy they bring to their performances.
The Originals have roots in the mid-’90s ska scene. Waters mentioned how he and other members were part of a ska band during their high school years in Prescott. Inspired after seeing Reel Big Fish at a festival, they decided to reunite and form The Originals. Their set list now includes 40 Reel Big Fish songs, marking a nostalgic return to their musical beginnings.
Opening the concert, Rick Cucuzza will showcase his unique musical talents. As the creator of evoL-ution, he employs live looping technology during his performances, enabling him to blend various genres like rock, blues, and funk. “My act involves building songs live without any pre-recording,” Cucuzza explained, highlighting his innovative use of a custom pedal board.
Vargo noted the charm of the Red Dirt Concert Series, emphasizing the community aspect of the event. “Everybody has a great time, and I can just imagine more people coming out to enjoy it together,” he said.
