Dub Trio: Conversations on the Road

Interview conducted on November 6, 2011 at The Mid in Chicago
by James Currie

OK, so you might not know the name Dub Trio right off the bat, but you’ve most likely heard their music and didn’t even know it.

Dub Trio is a Brooklyn based dub/rock band driven by undeniable energy and raw power.  They have been making music together since 2004. Dub Trio, as the name implies, are 3 people, creating some of the most intelligent, groovable, hard rocking dub music around.  DP/Dave Holmes ignites the guitar and keyboards.  Stu Brooks punishes the bass and keyboards and Joe Tomino controls an electric/acoustic drum kit command center that incorporates samples and several other effects to complete the bands original sound.

Dub Trio is also a big part of another band.  They are the backing sounds for Matisyahu.  That’s right, the Chassidic Reggae Superstar that brought us hits like; “King Without A Crown” and “One Day” is all backed by Dub Trio.

But that’s not all the band has done.  They’ve been on singer, Faith No More’s, Mike Patton albums too. Each member has also contributed to many other artists.  They are like the silent partner in hit making.  Dave Holmes can be heard on Mos Def and Common albums.  Stu Brooks has recorded with 50 Cent, Tupac Shakur, Mobb Deep and Macy Gray just to name a few and Joe Tomino with the Fugees.

As Dub Trio, they have released four full-length studio albums, with E.P.’s and special releases in between. All progressive, dub metal infused.

The band tours relentlessly.  They seem to always be on the road.  That’s where I caught up with them, promoting their latest release, IV. Recently back from a European tour and after a show at “The Mid” here in Chicago on a cool Sunday evening in November 2011. 

James Currie (JC):  Hey guys.  Welcome back to Chicago. 

Dub Trio: Thanks.  Always good to be here. 

JC: And always glad to have you here.  So, how long is this leg of the tour and where is it taking you? 

Dave Holmes: About 4 weeks here in the states.

Joe Tomino: We’re heading west from here promoting the new album, then end up in Hawaii.  Then a couple days off there, so not bad. 

JC:  Sounds pretty good.  Not a bad place to end up.  So, let’s talk about the new album and tour.  It’s been out about a month now right and it’s getting some really good reviews from both fans and critics.  How’s the road treating you?

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