From the moment Bumpin Uglies was founded in 2008, the Annapolis, MD band established itself as a relentlessly DIY act.
Early on, that work ethic was evident as the group cut its teeth playing every bar and club along the East Coast. Though the band’s distinctive sound was steeped in reggae rock, their approach was right out of the punk playbook – pay your dues, tour hard, write prolifically, and cultivate your community.
The hard work has undoubtedly paid off, as Bumpin Uglies has ascended to become one of the premier bands in reggae rock. The group is widely regarded as a can’t-miss live act, and despite some lineup changes – most recently the departure of bassist Dave Wolf – Bumpin Uglies have shown no signs of slowing down. Their new album, Crawling Up the Wall, was released on September 19, marking the ninth studio LP of their career.
“It’s the best stuff we’ve ever done,” frontman Brandon Hardesty proudly proclaimed during a recent conversation with Grateful Web. Listening to the album, it’s hard to argue. Tunes like “Sweet Tooth,” “I-95” and “Orange Crush” (featuring Artikal Sound System) provide plenty of carefree island vibes, while tracks like “Burn It Down” counterbalance with frenzied aggression.
With new material in hand, along with a reputation for dynamic live performances, Bumpin Uglies will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated sets at this year’s Outermost Roots & Blues festival, taking place October 11 and 12 in Orleans, MA. Among the most excited fans? Festival curator G. Love.
READ MORE: How G. Love Turned Outermost Festival Into a Must-Attend Event
“I just have a lot of respect for these guys,” G. Love admitted to The Pier when discussing Bumpin Uglies. “They’re doing something unique with reggae and rock and roll, and they have that East Coast thing, so they’re nitty-gritty.”
G. Love added that fans can expect a cameo appearance by Hardesty during his own set, offering high praise for the frontman’s abilities.
“I don’t know if people know it or not, but Brandon’s a dope MC,” G. Love noted. “Like, just as far as a rapper, he can go up and rap with anybody. Like, his freestyles, his verses? Top notch.”
Tickets for the Outermost Roots & Blues festival are on sale now.
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