top of page
Screenshot 2021-06-24 at 17.23.49.png

Band Bio: AKA The Syndicate

Origin: South-East England
Genres: Ska, Reggae, Rocksteady, Pop, Soul, 2 Tone

Punk


Years Active: 2019 - Present​​​​

​

Live Band Members:

  • Laura Betts - Lead Vocals

  • Simon Peet - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals

  • Jamie Franklin - Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals

  • Bob Dear - Drums

  • Gary Knight – Keyboard

  • Sean Williams – Saxophone

  • Dave Steptoe – Trombone

​

Extended Band Members/Writers/Friends:

Clara Byrne, Aaron Two Tone Malone, Bobby Blencowe, Roddy Byers, Monty Neysmith, Reg Shaw, Connor Jackaman, Maxine, Paul Gray, Dave Devonald, Martin Parrott, Richard Coppen, Jim Paterson, Dan Seran, Adam Faulkner, Jamie Yates, Steve Yates, Keith & Tex, Sarah Smiley.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​

​

​

​

Biography:

Formed in 2019, AKA The Syndicate are a dynamic seven-piece band descending from the various home counties of South-East England. Known for their captivating fusion of ska and reggae, they create a vibrant sound marked by soaring melodies and an electrifying brass section, all driven by a relentless rhythm. Their music not only entertains but also offers insightful social commentary on the everyday challenges faced by people in 21st-century Britain.

​

Early Years and Formation:

In 2019, Gary Knight, a gifted songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, launched AKA The Syndicate after receiving a skin cancer diagnosis that ignited his creativity. This unexpected challenge propelled him to finalise a collection of songs he had long been developing. With a strong network within the ska scene, Gary set out to form a ‘super-group’ of talented musicians to create fresh, original music that pays homage to the classic sounds of ska and 2 Tone, while infusing it with a contemporary twist. Collaborating remotely during lockdown using modern technology to write and record, many band members didn’t even meet in person for a couple of years! The songs were recorded at Panther Studios in Reigate, a beloved creative space owned by punk and psychobilly legend Richard Coppen (Tenpole Tudor, King Kurt, The Weird Things).

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Breakthrough and Rise:

AKA The Syndicate released their debut LP, AKA The Syndicate, in 2021, showcasing their impressive versatility and a diverse array of influences. The album features guest appearances from 2 Tone legend Roddy Radiation of The Specials on two tracks. With relatable social commentary, infectious hooks, and a blend of genres, the LP received rave reviews from fans and garnered airplay on independent radio stations worldwide. Following the album’s success, fans eagerly called for live performances, leading to their first gig in 2021. Since then, the band has played across the UK and even secured a festival slot in Germany.

​

Discography Highlights:

  • AKA The Syndicate LP (2021): Debut full-length album, featuring the standout singles "Hands Up Who’s Coming With Me," “Two Sides of The City” and “Save It”

  • It’s Our World LP (2023): Second full-length album, crowdfunded by fans - raising nearly £6,000. The album was voted the ‘best album of 2023’ by listeners of popular independent ska radio station Button Down Radio. The album includes a track written and performed by Monty Neysmith of Symarip.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​

​​

​

Gig Highlights:

  • Skamouth (2022 & 2023 & 2025)

  • Concorde 2, Brighton (2022 & 2023 & 2024): Supporting Bad Manners

  • Freedom Sounds Festival, Cologne Germany (2023): Alongside The Slackers

  • Blam Blam Fever Festival (2023 & 2024)

  • Birmingham International Ska Festival (2024): Alongside Symarip, Rhoda Dakar, The Pioneers

  • Guilfest (2024): Alongside The Stranglers, Black Grape, The Skints, The Blockheads

  • The Dublin Castle (2023 & 2024)

  • The 5:15 Club, Birmingham (2024)

  • Tyber’s Reggae Bar (2023)

  • Venue 229 (2024): Supporting King Hammond

  • Newark National Scooter Rally (2024): Supporting Death of Guitar Pop

  • The Specialized Project Big One (2024): Alongside The Specials Family, Too Many Crooks, King Hammond

​

Influences:

AKA The Syndicate draws inspiration from a wide array of iconic artists, including The Specials, Madness, The Selecter, The Beat, Dexy's Midnight Runners, and Blondie. Blending these influences, they craft a fresh, modern take on ska and 2 tone, bringing a unique edge with their powerful female lead vocalist—setting them apart in today’s music scene.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Quotes:​

“They came onstage and launched straight into Two Sides of The City which set the stall out for the night ahead. Infectious and catchy soul grooves were on offer. There must be a big interest in the band as the hall was already three quarters full” - Brighton and Hove news (on AKA The Syndicate supporting Bad Manners at Concorde 2)

​

“A pop-tinged reggae album that brings to mind a wide variety of other bands, from Madness at their most successful to very early UB40, and maybe even a hint of No Doubt for good measure” – Scootering Magazine

​

“Just got a wee snippet of AKA The Syndicate. I know I shouldn’t swear but it’s f***ing good! The best British ska / soul / reggae band going” – Jim Paterson, Dexy’s Midnight Runners

 

Connect with AKA The Syndicate:

Screenshot 2024-06-30 at 09.10.45.png
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-30 at 09.28.41.jpeg
bottom of page