A COLUMBUS MUSIC SCENE CLOSE-UP
from Entertainmemt Columbus
 August 1998

by Amy Roberts

"Na Give Up" --simple, yet powerful words to live by for the Columbus-based THE ARK BAND. This inspirational phrase also serves as the title of their 1995 debut CD release. These three little words have fueled this multi-talented reggae band for 11 years, and continue to drive the band forward through the nineties, and into the next decade. THE ARK BANDhas certainly earned their place at the top of the reggae music scene, playing over 26 states nationwide and boasting (an average of) over 200 gigs a year. Perhaps you are asking yourself the question that question that plagues many Mid-westerners -- "Reggae music in Ohio?" The answer is THE ARK BAND of Columbus. Proving that reggae music lives beyond Jamaican borders, THE ARK BAND plays some of the best reggae this side of the Caribbean.

Founded in 1987 by brothers Terry and Eustace Bobb, from St. Lucia, THE ARK BAND's current line-up is Terry on drums and lead vocals; Eustace on drums and lead vocals; Michael Scott from Cincinnati on guitar and lead vocals; Damon Arterbridge from St.Louis on lead vocals and percussion; and George Vasovic from Yugoslavia on keyboards. Every Sunday night at Chelsies, the band's sound is enhanced by the keyboard talent of Michael Smith and Michael Iannicello from the local band Shakerman. Over the years, THE ARK BAND has developed a crisp, solid sound complemented by smooth, harmonious vocals. Critically acclaimed as one of the best reggae bands in the country, their live show proves to be an enjoyable spectacle of uplifting Jah music.

Impressive highlights of THE ARK BAND's musical career include opening acts for Alpha Blondy, Culture, Inner Circle and Shabba Ranks.

THE ARK BAND story is an interesting tale of spirituality, conviction and talent. Terry and Eustace began their musical career in New York City about 22 years ago. Terry comments on the music scene in NYC: "People think that everything happens in New York but it doesn't. New York doesn't have a really great live music scene like Ohio." Terry and Eustace followed the band Identity to Ohio, and blessed the Columbus music scene with their presence. Following a brief lapse, a month spent in Negril, Jamaica rejuvenated the brothers' musical interests, and inspired the formation of what we know today as

Rear Left: Terry Bobb, Rear Right: Eustace Bobb, Front Left: Damon Arterbridge, Front Right: Michael Scott

THE ARK BAND. That name is a spiritual metaphor, chosen to represent their their religious beliefs. Terry explains, "We are the band that is going to take reggae
music over to the new world. Let us be the transport of this music, like the ark was a transport." (Michael) Scott and Damon joined the band shortly after its conception, and have been with the band ever since. Today the band is the smallest it has ever been with five members. The downsizing happened as a result of economics, but as Terry comments, "We hate it because we are so used to so much music coming off the stage. In reggae, it's the little things that we add in that make the sound of reggae."

This is the fifth year the band has been playing Sunday nights at Chelsies. The music starts around 11:00, as the place fills with devoted Ark Band followers and brave music fans testing the waters of reggae music.

"Over the years, people have said that we are the best reggae band they have ever heard," states Terry. It has not been easy to win over Columbus music fans -- reggae being somewhat of an obscurity in this midwestern town. Terry explains, "People said they hated reggae until they saw us. People really like the band because we keep to a consistent standard of music." According to Errol Lam, assistant and friend of THE ARK BAND, their musical standard is much higher than what has been set by the music industry. "Columbus is very privileged to have a band of this talent. Columbus doesn't realize how good they are." Lack of radio air-play and lack of press recognition contribute to THE ARK BAND's lesser known reputation in Columbus. They are not always as enthusiastically received in this town as in other towns, which explains why they play over 250 out-of-state gigs a year. THE ARK BAND is very grateful for their hardcore Columbus fans that have put aside preconceptions and let the music speak for itself.

Eleven years of hard work has certainly paid off for the group. They are self-managed and "self-propelled" as Terry likes to say. The band does quite well without an agent, with gigs booked solid Thursday through Monday of every week. They have a new CD coming out this year called, "Love Is What We Need". This much anticipated second release is sure to make waves in the reggae music industry. Terry and the rest of his crew continue to work towards international fame and recognition..... THE ARK BANDmay be reached at 419-352-7143 or 614-469-1189 and by e-mail at rlam@bgnet.bgsu.edu Their web site is at LittleMunk.com/TheArkBand

Irie, mon.