Legendary act Fishbone takes over 123

For half a century, Fishbone has blazed a trail of excellence in the music industry with its high-energy, frenzied approach to the genre of American ska.

Now, as part of a nationwide tour, Fishbone plans a stop at Morgantown’s historic venue 123 Pleasant Street tonight at 10 p.m.

Often replicated but never duplicated, Fishbone has amassed a significant fan following in its 25-year career thanks to its original and refreshing approaching to the ska genre.

Boasting a live performance that is widely regarded as a can’t-miss concert experience, Fishbone has toured alongside bands such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beastie Boys and The Roots.

With such experience at the top level of the business, the Fishbone show promises to be a stellar event for attendees.

"Fishbone is one of the most influential and important bands in rock history," said event promoter Adam Payne. "Twenty-five years later, I’m expecting the same show energy as when they rocked Lolapalooza in ’93."

To help maintain this success through the 21st century, Fishbone has released a full-length feature documentary entitled "Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone."

The documentary, narrated by Laurence Fishburne, earned LA Weekly’s Critic’s Choice Award at the Los Angeles film festival in 2010 and has been dubbed "effortlessly entertaining" by Variety magazine.

Encore Magazine also hailed the effort as "more than a documentary about rock ‘n’ roll. It’s a documentary about the American spirit and one that shows the life of one of its most influential creative forces."

With such acclaim backing the band, it is not a stretch to suggest this will be one of the biggest shows of the year at 123 Pleasant Street. Fishbone has sustained a distinct career in a tough business the only way one can – by being exceptional.

Also on tonight’s bill is Detroit-based funk/punk band Downtown Brown.

Since its formation in 2001, the group has steadily made a name for itself in the music industry through its funky beats and willingness to experiment with a wide variety of sounds.

"Take a fat kid who grew up listening to Guns N’ Roses in grade school, discovered Bad Religion and Metallica in middle school and in high school became obsessed with Prince and P-Funk," said Neil P., vocalist and guitarist in an interview with Punk Globe. "It’s pretty easy to see where our sound comes from."

Such a summary perfectly encapsulates Downtown Brown; they are not afraid to mesh styles, and they do so with talent and precision.

With a lineup featuring established veteran groups Fishbone and Downtown Brown, tonight’s show at 123 Pleasant Street promises to display exceptional musicianship and a refined, engaging stage show to keep the audience entertained from the opening chord to the final crash of the cymbals.

For tickets, visit www.showtix4u.com or show up at the door with a crisp $20 and ready to rock.

The show begins at 10 p.m., and concertgoers must be at least 18 years old to attend.

If the history and promise of an explosive performance is not enough to get you to the show, consider Payne’s warning.

"You don’t want to miss this show, because you may never get a chance to see these legends again."