A-100s are a new band steeped in the traditions of ska, reggae, and rocksteady, but the players are far from new! The core of the band is Matt Hensley (accordionist of Flogging Molly) and Sean Wheeler (vocalist of Throw Rag)! Although their best known projects are known for their distinctive takes on Celtic punk and desert punk, respectively, both collaborators have a deep love of classic Jamaican reggae & ska. Hensley even previously played guitar & keys in the early 90s ska band Spy Kids, several members of whom contribute to A-100s in the studio and onstage. Speaking of collaborators, the combined pedigree of the band is truly legendary in the annals of underground music. Members of Mariachi El Bronx, Mad Caddies, Smoke & Mirrors Sound System, and folks who have played alongside greats such as Jimmy Cliff, Symarip, Roddy Radiation, and even Tom Petty! In other words, this is THE REAL DEAL! And in order to capture all this talent on wax, no less than Roger Rivas of fellow Pirates recording artists The Aggrolites co-produced the album. The sound of the A-100s is reverent to the roots of the music, and at the same time authentic to themselves, adding touches of Conjunto accordion. It's sweet & beautiful sounds played with just the right dose of raw & ramshackle to keep things interesting. It's Rude and Lovely! "Rolling through Mexico City looking out the backseat window like one hundred times before...taking in the rhythm of the city, I see a rotulo on a beauty salon's storefront: 'Rude and Lovely,' hand painted to perfection," explains Sean Wheeler. Unable to get the phrase out of his head, he excitedly called Hensley immediately. "That's it! The perfect statement for what we had been doing musically!" Track ListingRude and LovelyToo Rad To Be SadNumber OneLuxury NightsEastside GirlAnswerSoul RumbleWiresFirst LoveLook 'Em In The EyesThey Don't Want To KnowEasy Come Easy Go street date 7/10/2026
