Episode 115: J. Bonner, Scott Abels & Jimmy Cliff's Rebirth

Episode 115: J. Bonner, Scott Abels & Jimmy Cliff's Rebirth

Author: Junor Francis and Eric Kohler December 28, 2025 Duration: 1:51:08

J. BONNER, SCOTT ABELS & JIMMY CLIFF'S REBIRTH is the focus of our final episode of 2025. On this Episode 115 hosted by Junor Francis and produced by Eric Kohler, J. and Scott reflect on recording and performing with Jimmy as part of his ENGINE ROOM backing band led by TIM ARMSTRONG. This seminal album, Rebirth, won a Grammy Award in 2012, and deservedly so.


J.'s credits include JANDISC RECORDS, STUDIO ONE, THE AGGROLITES, THE VESSELS, BLACK EMERALDS, and DUB STREET ROCKERS. 


Scott's credits include HEPCAT, THE AGGROLITES, LARS FREDERIKSEN & THE BASTARDS, THEE HURRICANES, WESTERN STANDARD TIME, JR. THOMAS & THE VOLCANOS, LET'S GO BOWLING, and CYPRESS HILL.


There’s a particular rhythm and energy to the Southern California ska, rocksteady, and vintage reggae scene that has shaped generations. History of L.A. Ska: One On One Sessions gets into the heart of that culture, not just by playing the music, but by sitting down with the people who made it happen. Hosted by Junor Francis, a veteran voice who has lived this world as a radio DJ, emcee, and promoter, each conversation feels less like an interview and more like a candid backstage chat. You’ll hear from legendary performers and modern-day players who carry the torch, as well as the essential behind-the-scenes figures whose stories are often untold. Produced by Eric Kohler for Rockery Radio, this podcast builds a living archive of a vibrant musical community. The discussions are insightful and personal, revealing the passion, challenges, and camaraderie that define the scene. Tuning in offers a deep appreciation for the beats and offbeats that built L.A.'s distinctive sound, one story at a time. It’s a direct line to the artists and architects of a movement that continues to resonate.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

History of L.A. Ska: One On One Sessions
Podcast Episodes
Episode 121: Pauline Black (The Selecter) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:16
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with legendary frontwoman, singer, songwriter, and actor, Pauline Black, of 2-Tone group, The Selecter.
Episode 118: George "Clive" Murphy (The Tennors) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:15
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with singer, songwriter, and producer, George "Clive" Murphy, of legendary rocksteady trio, The Tennors.The Tennors alongside Eric "Monty" Morris will perform for SkaMania…
Episode 113: San Diego Ska with John Roy & Steve Kader [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:38:33
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with two veterans on the San Diego ska scene - John Roy and Steve Kader, who represent (either together or individually) such bands as Gangbusters, The Big Express, Unstea…