Local band, Richmond Dub Collective (RDC) played at the second Richmond Vegetarian Festival on Aug. 29. The Bryan Park performance served as the meaty center of this soy-filled event.
RDC formed in early 2003 and quickly became regular performers at local venues such as Emilio’s Tapas Bar, Alley Katz and the Canal Club.
With professional and organized poise, a slightly frazzled crowd was visibly relieved when the seasoned reggae masters took the stage.
In the age of whiny Emo, derivative Hip-Hop and unbearable Rhythm and Blues, RDC is a refreshing dose of Reggae. RDC has a smooth combination of Ganja beats and “easy on the ear” vocals. This combination coaxed some of the festival’s vegetarians to dance.
One such vegetarian, Virginia Commonwealth University senior, Khara Coburn, said she loves dancing with children to RDC. “They’re one of my favorite bands.”
Aspiring after influences such as Midnight, RCD recognizes each member’s style is an asset. The band hopes their demo, which should be out within the next few months, will highlight everyone’s contribution to their style.
“We’re all just people working full-time jobs and playing music,” drummer Mike Sheroshick said after the performance.
“We want to play Reggae music, but we want to reach out, we play a little jazz and hip hop. We want to expand it out and make it more modern.”