AKA The Syndicate is a 7-piece ska and reggae band from the South-East of England, known for delivering high-energy performances and infectious rhythms. Since forming in 2019, they’ve been captivating audiences with a dynamic fusion of ska, reggae, and soul, driven by punchy brass, groove-heavy basslines, and socially conscious lyrics that reflect life in modern Britain.

“They came onstage and launched straight into ‘Two Sides of The City,’ setting the tone for a night of irresistible grooves. The hall was already three-quarters full, a testament to the band’s growing appeal.” – Brighton and Hove News (on AKA The Syndicate supporting Bad Manners at Concorde 2)

Their 2021 debut LP, AKA The Syndicate, introduced standout singles like “Hands Up Who’s Coming With Me” and “Save It,” cementing their reputation as one of the UK’s rising ska acts. In 2023, they followed up with It’s Our World, a crowdfunded album that raised nearly £6,000, featuring collaborations with Monty Neysmith of Symarip. The album was voted ‘Best Album of 2023’ by Button Down Radio listeners, solidifying the band’s place in the modern ska scene.

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

With influences ranging from Madness and The Specials to early UB40, Blondie and even a touch of Dexy’s Midnight Runners, AKA The Syndicate brings their own unique blend of ska and reggae to the stage. Known for their lively performances and engaging sound, the band has steadily built a reputation for delivering memorable shows that resonate with fans of the genre.

“Don’t come calling me again!” is Cian Downing’s message to his doubters in his brand new single ‘Untouchable’, a toe-tapping indie-ska belter that has become a sing-along classic at lgigs in a matter of weeks. Downing, a singer-songwriter hailing from Stevenage, Hertfordshire, is emerging onto the British indie scene with his infectious energy and refreshing melodic songwriting in the style of Billy Bragg, Paul Weller and The Specials. These influences, combined with the insightful social commentary and personal reflections in his lyrics, give Cian’s music a unique sound which is attracting supporters from across the UK. The troops were rallied, a backing band was assembled, and they hurried into the studio in Spring 2021 to record Cian’s debut EP English Summers, which was followed up by The Northside EP in April 2023, which included the instant classic, ska-revival single ‘I’ll Always Keep.’ Cian and his band have played a number of prestigious live shows including supporting The K’s at Lafayette in London, playing Isle of Wight Festival 2023, Concorde 2 in Brighton, as well as headline slots at The Water Rats and The Victoria in London. Looking to the future, Cian Downing will be releasing his debut album The Grassroots to the Sky in early 2025, and the future certainly looks bright as Cian’s rise continues.