8°6 Crew is a French band that emerged from the vibrant underground music scene in the mid-1990s, known for their energetic blend of ska and reggae with a distinctive working-class perspective. The group's name, pronounced "Eight Six Crew," is drawn from the French vehicle registration system; "86" is the number that used to be assigned to one of the departments in France, Vienne, reflecting the band's deep roots in their local culture.
Combining classic sounds of Jamaican music with the energy of street punk, 8°6 Crew made their mark with a sound characterized by upbeat rhythms and socially conscious lyrics, resonating with audiences both in France and internationally. After their initial self-titled release, the band continued to build its discography with memorable albums such as "Bad Bad Reggae" in 1998 and the later acclaimed "Menil Express," which propelled them to further recognition within the reggae and ska scenes. The band's most recent work, including "Working Class Reggae" and "Green and White Ska," has solidified their reputation as stalwarts of the genre, blending their love for traditional ska with themes that celebrate and critique contemporary life. Through their melodic horn sections, skanking guitar riffs, and steady offbeat rhythms, 8°6 Crew stands out as a key contributor to the reggae and ska revival movement, continuously delivering music that is both nostalgic and fresh to a loyal and expanding fan base.
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