When you think about Modesto, California, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t a ska festival. Or any festival for that matter. But prepare to change your opinion because the Maximum Ska n’ P Festival is headed this way!
If had asked yourself, what are things Modesto is known for, you may come up with a small list that includes their thriving agriculture industry, producing an abundance of fruits and nuts – with specialty products that include almonds, walnuts, peaches, and grapes.
For sci-fi fans, Modesto is a mecca… well, kinda. Modesto proudly claims to be the birthplace of legendary filmmaker George Lucas, the creator of “Star Wars.” Lucas spent his formative years there and drew inspiration from his hometown in his iconic movie series.
The city also hosts an annual Graffiti Summer event as it celebrates its connection to the iconic feature film, “American Graffiti” (which was also filmed by George Lucas). To honor the big screen success, the yearly event includes classic cars, music, and nostalgia filling the streets.
All this to say, you can see the city is no stranger to spotlight events.
The city also boasts about their vibrant music scene; nurturing talented musicians across various genres, including country, rock, and hip hop. Events that draw fans from all points of the planet include the Fruit Yard Stand Festival, Modesto’s Certified Farmers Market, and the Modesto Art and Wine Walk.
Now we can add another festival to the region’s agenda – a ska festival for that matter! Maximum Ska n’ P has an awesome lineup featuring The Littlest Man Band with Scott Klopfenstein from Reel Big Fish playing a mixture of ska, Dixieland, jazz, and some sweet gems he always throws in. San Jose ska legends Monkey bringing the dancing game to the next level.
Chris Graue, the man, the myth, the legend behind Lo(u)ser bringing his eight-bit ska punk is always a good time. Rundown Kreeps’ mixture of rockabilly ska and punk will get you moving in the pit. Mr. Kingpin Ska, coming from Texas, doing a solid mix of new and old ska is always a wonderful time to dance.
With so many other awesome bands on this festival, how can you not go and dance your ass off? Rounding out the lineup is Before Twenty, Bet on Red, The Odd Advantage, Mojo Reggae, 1335, The Hellas, & The Bracers with This is SKA helping Viva Ska Radio throwing this awesome party!
It’ll be like enjoying cheese sticks for a king time, or whatever the kids are saying nowadays.
This festival will definitely have you dancing in and out of your shoes, tapping your toes, kicking your boots around, and ready to wear your suspenders. Trust me… it’ll be a damn good time.
