The English Beat in Bournemouth

The English Beat is the North American billing of The Beat, a British ska and new-wave band formed in Birmingham in 1978. The group is known for the albums I Just Can’t Stop It, Wha’ppen? and Special Beat Service, and for songs including “Mirror in the Bathroom,” “Save It for Later,” “Too Nice to Talk To” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You.” During its original run, the band toured Britain and North America and performed at the US Festival in San Bernardino in 1982. The original group split in 1983; since the 2000s, Dave Wakeling has led a US-based touring lineup under The English Beat name at clubs, theatres and festivals across North America.

Bad Manners are an English ska band formed in North London in 1976. Fronted by Buster Bloodvessel, they became part of the late-1970s ska revival through songs including “Lip Up Fatty,” “Special Brew” and their version of “Can Can,” as well as the albums Ska ’n’ B and Loonee Tunes! Bad Manners have made Christmas tours a recurring part of their live calendar, playing theatres and clubs around the UK with a full band led by Bloodvessel. Their festival history includes performances at Glastonbury Festival and Rebellion Festival in Blackpool.