Eclectics

Eclectics are a ska band from Chicago, with a Chicago/Detroit connection in their line-up and history. The group is also referred to as The Eclectics, and one of their songs, “Laura,” is credited under that name.

Style and influences

The band combines a wide mix of influences, drawing on artists and styles as varied as King Diamond, Krautrock, Naked Raygun, the Buckinghams, the English Beat and the Jacksons. Their music is described as ska-punk, and they focus on a tight, energetic live performance.

Line-up

The Eclectics go through numerous line-up changes, but the core aim remains to include players with a broad range of personalities and backgrounds. A later line-up includes Damon on vocals, a native of Detroit and former frontman of the midwest ska band The Exceptions; Russ on guitar; Dan on bass; Dale on drums; Marc and Graham on trombone; and Jake on tenor saxophone.

Recordings and collaborations

The band works with Steve Albini on a recording intended to give ska-punk a different angle. Their release Idle Worship appears on the indie ska label Jump Up! and receives wider distribution through Universal. The Eclectics also appear on the ska compilations Misfits of Ska II and Return of American Skathic.

Live activity

They tour the eastern half of the United States and support acts including Less Than Jake.