Bridging the gap between Santa Cruz and Salinas,
the Midtones redefine California Reggae with a
heavy dose of positive roots. Their unique mix of
skateboard-influenced rocksteady, dub and lovers
rock reggae is inspiring people from all walks of
life to simply sing and dance. And some even,
to skate.

Pool Rebel—the skateboarders’ bouncy, rocking
twist on the Bob Marley classic Soul Rebel done in
a Gladiators style—has become a favorite of live
audiences. Mid-tempo funky fare like I’ve Been
Down and Love So Nice keep the crowds dancing.
While the slow and soulful For You Girl and dark,
somber Life Ain’t Easy provide expressive variety.

Founded by Mike Marquez, Mony Lujan, and
Andrew Nack, the Midtones came together as a
Livocation to friend and former drummer Eric
“Stello” Costello who passed away in a tragic
skateboarding accident.

Stello—an energetic and talented drummer
credited with bringing the musicians together—
shared a lifelong dream of playing reggae music
with friend and vocalist Marquez. Just a few
weeks after the band’s first practice, while
skateboarding Stello suffered a fatal head injury.

The remaining original trio were blessed to have
drummer Jeremy Campbell step in to fill the large
shoes left behind by his predecessor. They called
upon Jason “Skinner Dread” Skinner on keys and
have continued the dream in honor of Stello.