Umbrella Bed is a 2-Tone ska band from Minneapolis, Minnesota, formed in the summer of 1995. The 2-Tone ska sound, popular in England in the early 1980s, is characterized by its fusion of traditional Jamaican ska rhythms with punk rock and new wave influences. This genre often features upbeat tempos, brass instruments, and socially conscious lyrics.
Umbrella Bed embraced the 2-Tone ska sound and infused it with their own diverse influences, creating a unique blend that resonates in the alternative music realm. The band quickly gained a large local following in the Twin Cities and was voted one of the “Best New Bands” of 1997 by The City Pages. They have released five full-length albums, an EP, and have been featured on worldwide released compilations. Their music incorporates elements of swing, punk, reggae, Latin, new wave, and old-school Jamaican sounds, wrapped in a 2-Tone framework.
Umbrella Bed’s lineup has seen some changes over the years, but key members like lead vocalist Hellrocket, drummer Mitch Thompson, and trombonist Al Teagarden have been with the band since its inception. Trombonist Joy Judge and guitarist Kabel Lefto have been in the fold for nearly two decades, while bassist Jill Bartyzal and saxophonist Andy Shaf have jumped aboard to jump-start the band’s recent work. As they approach their 30th anniversary, Umbrella Bed continues to evolve and bring their energetic sound to anyone who will listen.