Following the unexpected success of their heartwarming holiday single “Christmas Smile,” Griff and Michele with one ‘L’ return with a vibrant, character-packed cover of “54-46” — the 1968 Ska/Rocksteady anthem by Toots and the Maytals that helped define reggae as a global genre. This fresh take, recorded at Fantastic Sunshine Corner Studios, is a loving tribute to the original, but it’s also unmistakably Griff and Michele — fun, soulful, and full of personality.
Griff’s larger-than-life charm shines through every syncopated beat, while Michele brings her cool, steady presence to balance the track’s buoyant energy. Together, they deliver a cover that’s less imitation, more celebration — capturing the rebellious, joyful spirit of the original while injecting it with modern flair and cheeky character.
The production, helmed by the seasoned Steve ‘Smiley’ Barnard (whose resume spans Robbie Williams, Joe Strummer, and Tony Visconti), gives this version a clean but rootsy polish — keeping the rawness of ska alive while subtly enhancing it with fresh sonic textures. And that horn section? Pure gold.
The collaborative energy runs deep here, with a cast of guest vocalists and musicians drawn from across the Mod, Ska, and indie rock scenes. From The Chords UK to The Dirty Strangers, The Vulz, and Ghosts – The Spirit of The Jam, the track becomes a mini-celebration of British underground culture — a ska supergroup moment built on mutual love for the scene.
Adding to the charm is a Brighton-based video shot around the legendary Quadrophenia Alley, where the real-life partnership between Griff and Michele is playfully woven into a nostalgic love story. The visuals are cheeky, vibrant, and just the right side of romantic — perfectly mirroring the song’s carefree feel.
“54-46” is also part of a limited red vinyl 12″ EP, alongside previous tracks like “Christmas Smile”, “Gogo Coco”, and “I Had a Dream,” available via Sounds of The Suburbs — a nod to their physical music roots and cult following.
Contact them: soundsofthesuburbs@yahoo.co.uk
