The Internationals are an instrumental band that has a Jamaican ska sound like no other in Europe. In 1998 the group started as a modest four-man band that inexorably grew into a not-so-modest nine-man ensemble. Its members are or were involved with famous acts as El Tattoo del Tigre, the Seatsniffers, Son de Luxe and The Belgian Afro Beat Association.
Treading in the footsteps of Jamaican ska idols, the Internationals offer a highly proprietary mix of jazz, R&B and various exotic styles, all presented with their own ska groove and infinite enthusiasm. It is not so surprising, then, that the group is rooted in the new Antwerp party scene. After the adventurous rock of the 90s with groups such as Deus, Zita Swoon, ... fresh groups like Wawadadakwa, Think of One, El Tattoo del Tigre and The Belgian Afro Beat Association (of which nearly the entire line-up of the Internationals is a member) are ready to break through. Where Captain Beefheart and JJ Cale were once the rage, Fela Kuti, Tito Puente and The Skatalites are now the measure of all things.
The first pivotal moment in the International’s history took place in the spring of 2001, when the band entered a studio. Five songs were recorded on the EP "fun-kee ara-bee" (Haiku Records/Lowlands). This was followed by the fantastic summer of 2002 with concerts in Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
In 2003 Internationals released their first full album "The People Love It" (Wam Recordings/Lowlands) and got splendid press reviews:
The People Love it is a great party record by experienced musicians (Tijd Cultuur)
Do we love it? Sure we do! (De Standaard)
The Skatalites made in Belgium (Rootstown Music)
I listened to the cd and certain tracks, quite a few in fact , are pretty damn good! The whole cd is very listenable. Well done to all concerned!!!! (Steve Barrow – Blood and Fire)
The following tour Internationals played almost every important festival in Belgium, like Pukkelpop, Marktrock, Dranouter, Couleur Café, Reggae Geel, Antilliaanse Feesten, Polé Polé, etc.
In 2004 en 2005 they toured in South Africa and cooperated with the Doo-Wop trio The Extraordinaires from Londen.
March 2006 their new album saw the light. On ‘Wonders Of The World’ Internationals combine catchy melodies and irresistible hooks with an overall mature sound. Their mix of jazz, r&soul and all kinds of exotica, finished with a characteristic ska groove is brought to the public with a great sense for show and an infinite enthusiasm.
Fun-kee Ara-bee
Haiku 2002
The People Love It
Wam 2003
..
Wonders Of The World
Petrol 2006
..
