Mark Condellire Lead Vocals Phillip McKenzie Vocals & Percussion Jeff Schneider Keyboards Pete Sikich Bass Guitar

Kevin Griffin Drummer Brian Stoller Guitar & Vocals Reggie Morrow Trumpet Bryan Coughlan Trombone

Since their formation in 1983, the Murder City Players have built a rock-solid reputation in the mid-west as one of the premier American reggae bands. This eight-piece unit, complete with horn section, has been laying down full-force reggae riddims for over ten years. Based in St. Louis, the group is fronted by vocalists Mark Condelliere, a St. Louis native and 'Prince Phillip' McKenzie, native of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The chemistry between Mark and Phillip has been key to the enduring popularity MCP has enjoyed.

This talented and versatile band can easily slip from a ska medley to a dance-hall groove with DJ-style toasting, into a Studio One medley, then cap it off with a set of their own well-crafted originals. Over years of performing, the group has continued to push the limits of their craft. Backing great Jamaican artists in concert like The Itals, The Ethiopian and Daddy U-Roy, the group has learned from some of the best.

The group's first album, "Enter the Musical Arena," was released several years ago on their own Burning Bush label. That album, which yielded the tune "Bitta Bye," was among those selected for "Reggae USA"--The Best of US Reggae, by Reggae Report Magazine.

"Power Struggle" is the new album by Murder City Players, produced by the group, with Kingston-based engineer Mervin Williams. The album features thirteen titles which capture the band performing a range of styles from ska to roots reggae to soul and even dance-hall styles, with dj-toasting from Prince Phillip. Engineer and co-producer Mervin Williams brings an authentic sound to the recording, drawing on his experience at Aquarius Studios, where he recorded great artists like Burning Spear, The Itals, Bunny Wailer, Jimmy Cliff, Justin Hinds and others.