REVIEWS
“For more than twenty years now, the Saint Lucian reggae band based in Ohio, The Ark Band, has been spreading the joys of roots rock reggae all over the United States. “We have played in every State, except North and South Dakota,” Terry Bobb told the STAR this week during an interview. Terry Bobb, who was on vacation here over the Christmas and New Year holidays, is one half of the founding members of the band. The other is his brother Eustace Bobb. Together they are referred to as the Saint Lucian rhythm twins (after the Jamaican rhythm twins Sly & Robbie), due to their distinct drum and bass sound.
Presently hailed as the number one reggae band in the whole Midwest USA by several publications, The Ark Band is heavily booked each year between May and September, playing a number of large events and festivals. However, they are on the road most of the year, performing at clubs, weddings and other events as well. The group, which was once endorsed by Miller Beer, recently signed on to a new sponsorship deal with another brewing company.
They have also shared the stage with a number of reggae greats including Burning Spear, Tony Rebel, Freddie McGregor, Culture, The Abyssians, Beres Hammond, Inner Circle, Israel Vibrations and many others. In fact, they recall their single largest event several years ago, playing before 70,000 fans at the Vermont Reggae Festival. Also on stage were Lucky Dube and Sister Carol. However, at the end of the day one newspaper reviewer wrote: “Surprisingly the Ohio-based band, The Ark Band, put on the best set of the day.” They were also labelled as having “stunning vocals, penetrating lyrics, backed by the tightest instrumentals imaginable.”
Following another live performance Tom Weber, co-author of Reggae Island wrote: “The Ark Band is one of the best Reggae bands I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of Reggae bands!”
By Toni Nicholas in the ST. LUCIA STAR [ click to read complete article ]
“Do you ever wonder about things say for example what would Misty In Roots sound like if they merged with Morgan Heritage? Well my guess is that they would sound like this. The singing and songwriter is so strong. Roots tunes, love tunes and reality tunes.”
Review by Ray Hurford – SMALL AXE magazine, London
“Few American-based reggae bands have shown the commitment and dedication of The Ark Band, whose latest release Love is What We Need (Ark Band) is a textbook example of what’s best in American-based reggae. Whether the subject matter is “Pain and Misery,” “Drive By Shooting” or “Rastafari”, the uplifting intent of the lyrics is underpinned by a pulsing rhythmic structure and melodic surface with tight vocals augmented by harmonies, tasty guitar and organ fills and percussive invention. Co-produced by the band and Iawatha “Amha” Selassie and mixed and mastered by the legendary Jim Fox of Lion and Fox Recording Studio, this is an impressive set of music from a band that’s ready to break out into the mainstream without losing any of its roots.”
Chuck Foster – THE BEAT (VOL. 19 NO. 4)
“Ladies & Gentlemen: Of the 37 years of my life, last weekend was one of the absolute best ever, and certainly the best in recent memory, bar none! With The Ark Band’s performance at the Flamingo Cantina on Friday night, all I can say is that the Austin massive was well pleased. It was pure niceness all around. The weather was slightly less than ideal, but there were nothing but smiles all around. Of course, for use it ended too soon (they played from about 10:45 to 2:30 or so with one short break).”
Horace Bowser – Flamingo Cantina, Austin TX
“The Ark Band played Club Viva last night and were outstanding. I hadn’t seen the guys for awhile and must admit they sounded great. They played some wicked roots and also mixed in some great sounding Soca. The dance floor was packed and it was a great way to start the holiday. Give thanks…”
Professor Skank, RAW #994
“The day of Saturn comes as does The Ark Band to Einstein’s. Playing mostly Jah originals, and the occasional soca and calypso, they focus on an experience that will not only enlighten you, but educate at the same time. With awe-inspiring vocal harmonies, The Ark Band can lay a classic reggae song on you that will hasten you back to a more innocent time. The Ark Band is a highly innovative classic reggae band in an age where DJ’s own Boardwalk and Park Place.”
Roman Warmke, Athens News
Bless C LA C I … Just wanted to thank you for an INCREDIBLE night of Jah music! Papa Dave killed it!….haven’t seen him THAT into it in quite a while and you guys played an amazing set! We all had SO much fun! That’s the best reggae show I’ve been to in a while…probably since Jah9 passed through last fall! I’m hoping to grab a couple bingo’s and head down to C-bus April 21 if you don’t mind us playing out in the audience? Give thanks again yah for a beautiful night of heretical vibez. Jah love.
Neil Cleveland
“Possibly America’s finest live reggae act.”
Paul Toth, Miracle Productions
“An incredible performance (with) tremendously positive feedback from people on campus. Some alumni said it was the best ever.”
Dave Hamady, Delta Tau Delta, Albion College (Michigan)
“The Ark Band, without a doubt, can compete with ANY reggae band on the international scene, and is truly tops in American reggae.”
Packy Malley, Packey Malley Presents/ A One Love Production
“The Ark Band is one of the best Reggae bands I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of Reggae bands!”
Tom Weber, co-author, “Reggae Island”
“Stunning vocals, penetrating lyrics, backed by the tightest instrumentals imaginable – The Ark Band is destined for nationwide success.”
Vermont Reggae Festival
The Ark Band is AMAZING! They are BEYOND talented and surpassed my expectations! I will definitely use them again in the near future … absolutely amazing!
Betsy Hall
Roots Reggae at its finest, such a group of amazing musicians that live their craft. They put in such a great show and fun times always keeping you moving!
Rusty Alder
I work with a ton of bands but very few have the soul, spirit, and positive energy that this group brings to every show. It is quite literally a joyful experience every time I’ve had a chance to work with them. Thank you guys for always bringing such an awesome show. I can’t wait for the next one!
John Sheil
They should play everywhere!!! Best Reggae band in Columbus. I live in Cleveland and I drop everything when they come here Just to hear them. The whole band is talented….. There all so nice and humbled.. Mark is so talented.. A true Rasta indeed…. Nothing but love, positive vibrations, the energy they bring to the stage is amazing… One Love
Tiffany Rode
Where do I start? The ark band is a group of very talented and professional musicians who put on one heck of a reggae party!!! And you can tell by each performance that they enjoy giving back to the crowd/fans.. so grab some friends and climb aboard The Ark for your listening pleasure!!! YA MON
Marcus Servitto
This band is not just a band, or friends or just passing thru, they are a FAMILY OF PEACE, LOVE, N UNITY for everybody. I just happen to Love them the MOST.
Pamela Blumenkamp
Best reggae in Columbus, big up yourself Ark Band.
Mosiyah Tafari
They are the real deal. Wonderful music, truly talented.
Lisa Poteet
They are a great band and the real deal for sure. They are a nice group of guys.. love watching them in concert!
Suzey Nusser
Great, awesome, talented band. They keep you engaged and dancing from the first song to the last. Wonderful entertainers. Highly recommend this band.
Marjorie Douglas
Saw performance at Lattitudes last night, or I should say I “felt” the performance of these truly talented band members. You’ve added members since I last saw you and the sounds only enhance the sound ofThe Ark Band! Great job!
Jo Ann Zerhusen
Best Reggae band ever. Go see them when they are near you.
Charley Simpson
Been a fan ever since I saw them live on the Barge on the Ohio River down in Cinci at Coconut Joes, out under the night sky! Awesome! This was like 25 years ago!! We were there for the awesome Fireworks they had every year on the riverfront. Then lo and behold….I bought a place in Caseville Michigan in Aug 2003 and they were playing live at the Cheeseburger in Caseville (Key North) festival….awesomeness!!! Miss them playing in that festival……
David Muney
I was first exposed to The Ark Band in 1993-94. I used to see them Sunday nights at Oldfield’s in Columbus. It was always a good time and as others have stated, they were always tight. I left town 97 or so. I saw them a couple times over the years after that. Last night, January 2019, I got to see them again for the first time in many years. And, although some of the line up has changed it was still great. Bands don’t last 30+ years unless the talent is there. Tight!
Jeff Cyrus
The Ark Band is surely one of the best US based Reggae bands. Every time I have seen them (many) they are tight, well rehearsed and they put their heart and soul into every song. An amazing group of very talented guys!
Richard Brown
The Ark Band is the absolute best. Their music always bless your soul.
Blake Evans
Great show tonight it was Epic.
Denise Peaks
Great Band … Can’t wait To See Again !!
Tim Moore
Really enjoyed the band. Music that touches the soul. Cant wait to see them again.
Nicole Evilsizor
One of the premiere roots bands in the Midwest. You cannot go wrong with this crew. Listen to their music on a daily basis.
Jeff Brown
Awesome night tonight at the Music Box Supper Club.
Brandi Bond
All I can say is Wow! So much positive energy!
Elizabeth Peter