The locally loved cover band Badfish returns to Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort for a free concert on Monday, Nov. 5. The band is heralded as one of the best cover bands in the country, and “Badfish, A Tribute to Sublime” has become a hotly anticipated tradition on the usually maxed-out pier.
“We know the locals really love this show,” said bass guitarist Joel Hanks, who has been with the band since its inception in 2001. “It’s so fun to play this gig out on the pier and see everyone having fun and singing along to the lyrics.”
Locals especially love the ’90s California surf culture covers that hit ska, punk, reggae and alterative notes. They sing along to the covers like “Don’t Push,” “Wrong Way,” “What I Got” and “Santeria.”
“They always make room in their schedule for the Key West fans,” said Ocean Key Resort’s Food and Beverage Director Rodger Levering, who is a fan himself. “It’s a free show, so we just want everyone to come out and have a great time. Badfish loves playing here and we love having them.”
This will be the band’s seventh time playing the pier, although they have been coming to the Keys since 2001, when the band was formed – more than 2,000 shows ago.
“It’s just such a cool spot to play,” he said, referencing some of the boats that anchor around the pier.
Based in Rhode Island, the band is most looking forward to the warm weather and playing tourist for a few days. But, in the midst of riding jet skis, parasailing, and renting mopeds, they said their favorite part is hanging by the Ocean Key Resort pool and exploring the off-the-beaten-path late night spots.
Drummer Scott Begin said the original Sublime album served as a soundtrack for his high school and college years.
This is the band’s first trip back since Hurricane Irma, and Hanks added that he likes to visit the Keys with his wife on their off time, especially the Lower Keys. “We were all eyes on the Keys before, during and after the hurricane,” he said. “We are very glad to get back and see some of our fans and wish well for everyone who was affected.”
Badfish in free concert
Monday, Nov. 5, starts at 7 p.m.
Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort
