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 50: Larry McDonald & Val Douglas (Jamaican music legends) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:58:22
On this milestone 50th episode, host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with two architects of Jamaican music - percussionist Larry McDonald and bassist Val Douglas, who are both members of The Skatalites.
Episode 48: Matt Munoz (Mento Buru) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:42:53
Host Junor Francis talks with singer, musician, bandleader, journalist, and podcast host, Matt Munoz, of Bakersfield's Mento Buru.
Episode 46: Keith & Tex and Rudy Mills (Jamaican rocksteady legends) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:23:03
Host Junor Francis talks with legendary rocksteady singers, Keith Rowe, Phillip Texas Dixon (Keith & Tex) and Rudy Mills. We preview their upcoming SkaMania show at La Santa in Santa Ana, CA on November 5, 2022. This wil…
Episode 44: Jenny Whiskey & Lady Hatchet (Rude Girl Revue) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:55
Producer Eric Kohler talks with two masterminds behind the super group, Rude Girl Revue - Jenny Whiskey and Kristin "Lady Hatchet" Forbes. Jenny also plays in Hub City Stompers and Rude Boy George, while Kristin also pla…
Episode 43: Monty Alexander (legendary Jamaican jazz pianist) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:54
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with Kingston, Jamaica-born, pianist, recording artist, composer, and bandleader, Monty Alexander. Monty's latest album, Love Notes, is his first recording featuring his v…