Hekatones are one of our favourite instrumental groups here in Brighton – featuring some of the tastiest players on the scene, and some great friends to boot! They’ve recorded in the Rose Hill studios downstairs and released their debut EP just last year. Come see them in action and hear them rip it up!
Formed in 2023, Hekatones bring together ska, rocksteady, roots reggae, dub and elements of jazz improvisation and world folk music. Led by bassist George Berrills (of dub group Resonators) and is comprised of a stellar lineup: Luke Rattenbury, guitar (Saidi Kanda, Politto Boogaloo), Mike Shirley, guitar (Resonators), Dre Millns, keys (Upper Cut Band), and Alex Moody (Dualers).
Last year the band released their debut EP ‘Passing Time’, single ‘Slipped Away’ (featuring our very own Bunty on vocals), and dub EP ‘Time Passing’ (all mixed by Eeyun Purkins at Waggle Dance Studios). The EP was chosen to be included in the British Library Sound Archives, and was championed by David Rodigan (BBC 1Xtra), who included ‘Slipped Away’ in his Best of 2025 playlist. The EP was also chosen by ska/reggae journal Radio Bahia as the Number 1 EP of 2025, and by Frecuencia Ska for their Best Of in ’25.
With Resonators, George has released numerous acclaimed records and toured globally, supporting the likes of The Skatalites, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Jimmy Cliff, and Horace Andy; they have received radio play on BBC Radio 1, 1Xtra, 6Music and Radio 4, with support from DJs such David Rodigan, Huey Morgan, Lauren Laverne and Craig Charles.
Through their use of improvisation and blending of myriad styles, Hekatones’ live performances are always fresh and rich in spontaneity, often involving collaborations with guest vocalists and instrumentalists. The deluxe vinyl containing both EPs is to be released in April 2026.
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