Outlaw Nation

An almost-packed house at the Granada Theater enjoyed nearly four hours of ska-related rhythms this past Saturday night as three fine acts made optimism the order of the evening.

Things started off well with Louisiana's Outlaw Nation taking the stage just after 8; this super-tight quartet was a pleasant, opening band surprise, playing an interesting fusion of hip-hop and reggae that captivated audiences fortunate enough to arrive early. - Dallas Observer

"Joining the legendary pair on the road is Outlaw Nation, a band Wakeling describes as “ska on its next great adventure, mixing Louisiana pocket with sweet melodies and sublime overtones.”' - Pollstar

The title says it all. Outlaw Nation was loud. They were many other things as well. Not only were they down to earth, but what really matters, is that they were true musicians. All three members, Christian Simeon (guitar/vocals), Danny Woolen (bass/backup vocals) and J.B. “Tha Drum Killa” (drums obviously), all have tremendous resumes in the music biz. United together under the name Outlaw Nation, this reggae rock group is going places. Signed to Stoopid Records, they are currently in the throws of an extensive tour of the lower 48 with Warped Tour bound Chase Long Beach and frequently perform with reggae heavyweights, Slightly Stoopid.

I had a chance to sit down with the guys from Outlaw Nation last Friday at LiveWire Music Hall. After discussing the merits of Mellow Mushroom pizza, we got down to business. They cite Sublime, 311, U2 and The Cure as heavy influences in their music. When I asked them to describe themselves using only two adjectives, they came up with “explosive” and “determined.” By the end of the night, there was no doubt that they backed their words up. I’m not sure if there is a more appropriate adjective other than explosive to describe J.B. “Tha Drum Killa.” He left the audience gaping with a ten minute drum solo that was the single greatest feat of stamina I have ever seen in a live performance. His arms were a blur and drumsticks were flying everywhere while stamping the bass drum all at the same time. The rest of the night consisted of soulful lyrics, throbbing bass and, of course, powerful drumming. Outlaw Nation is clearly a band on the rise.

Check them out before they trade intimate venues for large stadiums. - South Magazine