SOUND Knowledge in Marlborough became part of music history over the weekend after welcoming a comeback from the 1970s two-step band The Beat.

The shop in Hughenden Yard acted as the base for the launch of the ska/reggae/punk/soul fusion band’s latest album release, Bounce, on Friday (September 30) after 30 years since their last recorded material. Before the fans were given the chance to meet Ranking Roger and his son Ranking Junior for the signing, a special live performance took place at Thirty8 café.

Sam Robinson, 25, assistant manager of Sound Knowledge, said: “It was a packed house over at Thirty8 cafe for an exclusive acoustic performance, apparently their first ever sat down acoustic set. They played a handful of tracks from their brand new album Bounce and also a couple of classics, including a rendition of Mirror in the Bathroom that had everyone singing along.

“Ranking Roger- who for 2-Tone royalty is just the nicest fella- and his son Ranking Junior then took the time to meet everyone who queued to get their albums signed in-store. It was a great evening.”

Whilst this isn’t the first time a band has launched their latest album at Sound Knowledge, owner Roger Mortimer has said it has been an honour to have The Beat at the store.

“We were very excited to have them come her, to have such a legendary act come and play here is great. This is their first new material in 30 years, it is a real honour for them to have launched it at the shop. I was away that evening but from what I have been told, we sold a good amount of their latest album. Apparently there was a good mix of ages in the crowd which just goes to show The Beat still appeal to new listeners as well as the older fans,” said Mr Mortimer.

“Everyone knows who The Beat are, even if they don’t realise it, all you have to do is mention songs like Mirror in the Bathroom and people will recognise them.”