Where did the name "Urban Dread" come from?

The name Urban Dread was conceived by founding member Jason Bourne in early 1988.

What does it mean?

Literal:            Urban = adj. of a city or town     Dread = n. great fear

Jamaican:        Urban = living in the city              Dread = Jamaican

Californian:      Urban = in the city                      Dread = feeling IRIE

Optimistic:       Urban = in metropolis                 Dread = chillin' out

Pessimistic:      Urban = development                 Dread = in great fear of

How long has the band been together?

The first rehearsal was in April, 1988.  First gig on July 30th, 1988 at Sergio's Cantina in Westlake, CA in front of a packed house.

How many people have been in the band? at one time? member changes?

Ten.  The band was a 6 piece at one time.  Over the years, there have been eight different line-ups.

How many original members still in the band?

Two.  Jahson and Kristafari...friends since September, 1978.

How many shows has the band played?  per year?  in a week?

Over 2500 at last count.  Somewhere around 250 per year.  The record for one week is 10.

How many cover songs does the band know?  originals?

Somewhere between 100 and 200.  Approximately 50.

Name of the house that the band lived in circa 1991?

Dread Ranch.  Lasted about one year until the house got destroyed by gang members that crashed a huge party.