The Contenders

A Minneapolis octet known as the Contenders emerged from the remnants of several local ensembles, drawing personnel from Twin Cities outfits such as Three Weeks, the Jinkies, Fast Eddie G, and the Pinsetters. The group’s chosen designation places it in unexpected company with a motion picture, a television program, a religious movement, an obscure country act, and a Kinks long-player, among other claimants. In a political campaign season, the name might suggest the presence of figures like George Bush Jr. or Pat Buchanan, an association less than ideal for a reggae- and ska-oriented ensemble.

The band favors the tag Pop-Trad Ska for its collection of largely original material, shaped by the classic stylings of the Skatalites, Prince Buster, Desmond Decker, and Toots & the Maytals as well as the approach of 1970s acts including Bad Manners and the Specials. Guitarists Andy Zetzman and Thom Helgerson form a dual-lead frontline, and the outfit’s willingness to absorb developments from the 1990s allowed a modern accent to complete the overall presentation. Observers in the Minneapolis area have singled out the horn section for particular commendation.