British reggae musician Pato Banton [pictured left, photo by Phil Bardi.] is an effervescent showman who sings, toasts, raps, talks and generally encourages his fans to join him all throughout his concerts, even going so far as invite his most enthusiastic ones to perform on stage with him. His energy is intoxicating, and his songs carry messages of love, peace, anti-materialism, activism, and positive change. This is a must-see show; to read my review of Pato's last soul-stirring performance at Skipper's, click here. Wed., May 26, 8 p.m., Skipper's Smokehouse, Tampa, $12 in advance/$15 dos.
This article appears in May 20-26, 2010.