The Instigators

The Instigators came together in DC back in 1994 and have produced a robust blend of ska, rock, and swing ever since. Several years of sharpening their abilities—marked by multiple sold-out DC performances, road work alongside nearly every major ska performer, and a show on the Capitol lawn—preceded the arrival of their debut full length album, Happy Hour, in 1999. Featuring vocalist Mike Frank, guitarist Dan Golden, bassist Brad Saaks, guitarist Fritz Blanchette, drummer Pat Flynn, trumpeter Chris Newman, saxophonist Gavin Benke, and trombonist Jonathan Fallin, the characteristically large ska ensemble built anticipation for that first full-length through extensive U.S. touring in 1998 and 1999.