Native Dread is a 4 piece Roots Reggae band based out of Virginia.  Playing for the sake of spreading irie feelings and uplifting the soul, the band's inspiration forms raw mystical tunes to brighten the mind and bring one another closer. They keep a tight roots vibe with a heavy dub influence, bringing driving riffs and feel good rhythms to spark people dancing in any venue.

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Native Dread began with vocalist/guitarist, Gabriel Meeks, establishing a reggae presence in Richmond (2018) before relocating back to the Tidewater area of Virginia (2021). In search of a rebel crew of musicians to stand alongside and perform, he connected with an old family friend and skilled drummer, James Dale, and began weaving strong rhythms with heavy roots bassist, Soli Satele. Finally, bringing an extra rhythmical element and depth to the roots tunes, sound maestro, Christopher Galiffa, joins up as the band's keyboardist and production engineer.

Embracing indigenous roots, Native Dread serves a mission to project positive vibes and overthrow life's obstacles and selfish oppressors. 

Accommodating performances from small unplugged acoustic sets to full band electric shows, Native Dread is ready to bring an uplifting atmosphere of good vibes and worldly love.

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Having played shows throughout the Virginia, East Coast and New England areas, Native Dread is seeking out shows near and far. Performances include the 420ish Unity Festival, Mickey's Black Box, Scandal's Live, Chicho's Backstage, Riffhouse Pub, RVA's The Camel, O'Connor Brewing Company New Realm Brewery, Blue Mountain Brewery, Dawson St. Pub, among many other venues/establishments.

Native Dread has performed shows supporting heavy hitting acts, including Barrington Levy, Shaggy, Mr. Easy, Mighty Mystic, Etana, EarthKry, United Souls, Rootsetters, and Cultivated Mind.