Dub Apocalypse is a powerhouse instrumental dub reggae band from Boston, MA, blending deep grooves, adventurous soundscapes, and top-tier musicianship.

Formed in 2007, the band was started by drummer Tommy Benedetti (of American reggae pioneers John Brown’s Body) and guitarist Johnny Trama, and brings together some of the city’s most versatile players:

• Tommy Benedetti (drums) – A founding member of John Brown’s Body, Benedetti brings decades of experience in reggae and dub, having toured internationally and recorded for labels like Shanachie, John Zorn’s Tzadik (mixed by Bill Laswell), and Easy Star Records. He’s also backed legends like Justin Hinds and The Meditations.

• Johnny Trama (guitar) – Known for his soulful blues touch, Trama has toured with B.B. King’s organist Ron Levy and many regional soul and R&B acts, grounding Dub Apocalypse’s signature sound with his rhythmic clarity.

• Timo Shanko (sax/bass) – A dual-threat player and longtime friend of the band, Shanko adds Coltrane-inspired sax improvisation and heavy bass grooves. He’s a veteran of the blues and free jazz scenes, and has played with Eddie Kirkland and G. Love & Special Sauce.

• Aaron Bellamy (bass) – A fixture in Boston’s funk scene, Bellamy’s hard-hitting grooves lock in with Benedetti to create the militant rhythm core of the band.

• Van Martin (guitar) – Originally from Chicago, Martin adds sonic texture and songwriting chops. He’s toured with Bernie Worrell and Big Daddy Kane, bringing dub experimentation and bold improvisation to the DA sound.

Together, Dub Apocalypse mixes original compositions with deep cuts and reinterpretations from Jamaican and UK dub catalogs. Their live sets are dynamic, with a twin-guitar attack, jazz-fueled horn lines, and rock-solid rhythm at the center.

The band has won a Boston Music Award, was named one of The Improper Bostonian’s “10 Local Acts You Need to Hear Now,” and maintains one of the city’s longest-running and most popular weekly residencies.

They’ve released three full-length albums – Road to Oblivion, Frozen Planet, and Sound the Alarm – and have performed alongside reggae legends including Papa Michigan, Carlton Livingston, Jahdan Blakkamoore, and UK dub pioneer Mad Professor.

What does “General Admission” mean?

This is a General Admission event, which typically means all theater seats are removed from the floor to create an open, flexible space, with cocktail tables and barstools added for a more relaxed atmosphere. For this performance, floor seating may or may not be removed — the final setup will depend on audience size and production logistics. Theater seating in the balcony will remain in place and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you require a seat or need accessibility accommodations, just let us know — we’re happy to help. You can reach us at info@vinhillmusic.com.

Vinegar Hill Music Theatre is an independently owned event space located at 53 Old Post Road in Arundel, ME. Our charming, historic barn and outdoor garden provide an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable, intimate evening! Learn more here.