Ska-fusion rhythm revivalists The Beat return to the Birmingham stage bringing their iconic fusing of ska, reggae, punk, pop and rock back to the city that helped shape their sound. One of the biggest bands of the 2-Tone movement their music swaggered effortlessly across the boundaries from the non-commercial alternative/punk scene into mainstream pop in the early 80’s. The beat’s first single was a cover of Smokey Robinson’s Tears Of A Clown and their follow-up massive hit singles Mirror in the Bathroom and Can’t Get Used To Losing You (and subsequent catalogue of pertinently politicised songs of peace, love and unity) created a new sound that formed the backdrop to a generation of quiet and not-so-quiet teenage revolution. The 2016 line-up features the familiar sounds of frontman Ranking Roger and Ranking Junior. Expect a dramatic and energetic return to the city that’s also heavy on nostalgic appeal. Joined by special guests Dreadzone with an aftershow Ska,Mod,Dub,Reggae & Soul club night completing this hometown show.

Sat 23 Apr, The Rainbow Warehouse, Lower Trinity Street, Birmingham, B9 4AG, Tel: 0121 771 1521, 7pm-late, £22, Tickets:www.therainbowvenues.co.uk