We thought we'd do something extra cool for Friday of Ska & Reggae Fest this year and invite a couple of legendary reggae acts to come help all our reggae massive in the Inner Harbour celebrate this music we all love so much. Canada's beloved reggae troubadours BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH return to the festival for the first time since their unforgettable appearance in 2022. It's been over 25 years since the release of their debut album Root Fire and over 20 years since Sounding a Mosaic and their timeless classic “When The Night Feels My Song” took over the world. Their music has only gotten stronger and more textured, as evidenced by their last album We Will Meet In A Hurricane, a record packed with huge, singalong hooks and an infectious feeling. In their 25+ years on the scene, Bedouin Soundclash has pushed reggae into new spaces, being a consistent bridge between the music and audiences who may not be familiar with modern reggae of any kind. How many bands in any genre can say they've released music with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and the Skints? We are so excited to welcome one of Canada's most iconic bands back to the Ship Point stage.

Speaking of iconic reggae acts coming back to Victoria Ska & Reggae Fest, a true titan of reggae music, CLINTON FEARON returns to the festival for the first time over a decade. And this time he hits the stage backed by his mighty BOOGIE BROWN BAND. There are few people active in reggae today who can boast a musical résumé like Clinton Fearon. The bassist, vocalist and lyricist for the mythical Gladiators and a session musician for legendary reggae producers Coxsone Dodd and Lee 'Scratch' Perry, Fearon has been helping define the rhythms of reggae for over half a century! Fearon keeps the flame of reggae burning bright, still releasing powerful new music into the world, like his fantastic Jah Is Love album from last year. The record is a testament to both Fearons talent as a singer and songwriter, but to the endearing power of reggae music as a whole. Taking the stage first for this Friday night reggae party is Edmonton's Afro-fusion outfit MELAFRIQUE. A truly multi-cultural and multi-influential band – including members from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Jamaica and Canada – Melafrique hits a variety of genres: Jazz, R&B, Reggae, Neo-soul, all combined with different African styles of music, for a sound completely their own. Getting things heated up and keep them warm between bands is arguably the most high profile, important jungle/DnB DJs, MARCUS VISIONARY. From opening to close, if you love reggae music, heck, if you just love a good time with good music, Ship Point is the place to be on Friday, June 26. Come join us and fill up your heart.