Junior Bill & The Scallies are a four-piece from Cardiff, fronted by singer/songwriter/guitarist Junior Bill (aka Rob Nichols) and ably assisted by his band The Scallies.

Together they form a pretty formidable union, bashing out an eclectic mix of energetic and politically charged ska-tinged pop music, drawing influence from Reggae, Folk, Hip Hop, Punk and Skiffle. Their music displays a fine ear for melody and a breathtaking talent for a lyrical turn. Be it ‘Umbrella Pedestrians’, a stunningly ear-catching reggae-roots-rocker or ‘Tatty Laces’, which is just as lovable but Bill’s lyrical endeavors enter a new level altogether. Beyond knocking out tip-top catchy-as-hell tunes, Junior Bill is a man with his eyes open to the world around him. What makes the difference is his ability to interpret and digest what he sees into succinct tales that tackle everything from discrimination toward young people by the UK justice system to the class war being waged by the UK government. All done with energetic enthusiasm where by both style and substance are met with equal measures.

Check out ‘Umbrella Pedestrians’ and ‘Tatty Laces’, a fine introduction to his streetwise sounds.