French Boutik
Tickets

French Boutik

AKA The Syndicate + Cream Soda

Presented by: UXB Music Promotion/Sounds Of The Suburbs Records


0 LONDON: Hope and Anchor (info)
P Saturday 21st February, 2026
N Door time: 7:30pm
Start time: 8:00pm
. 18 and over
C Music - General

Event information

UXB Music Promotion/Sounds Of The Suburbs Records present
https://www.facebook.com/Sounds-of-the-Suburbs-record-store-1078521195544807/

Playing for us once again,all previous shows have sold out!
From Paris France our friends
☆French Boutik☆
are a Paris based "pop moderniste" quintet. Although they are clearly 1960s influenced, this combo takes the moderniste part of their tagline seriously and avoids retro déjà vu, offering up a delightful original concoction of classic pop melodies, harmony drenched male/female vocals, a soupçon of swirling organ, and sharp French and English lyrics inspired by heroes such as Jacques Dutronc and Ray Davies but firmly planted in the present.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=EyF5J78msD0&fbclid=IwAR25aoFqvrsL5t6Qruu3CoFzAUAQaiZk8jvpzHyEF7rKaLAtdnGJ1SAFL1s

https://www.facebook.com/frenchboutik

https://instagram.com/frenchboutikparis?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

☆AKA The Syndicate☆
Formed in 2019, AKA The Syndicate are a dynamic seven-piece band descending from the various home counties of South-East England. Known for their captivating fusion of ska and reggae, they create a vibrant sound marked by soaring melodies and an electrifying brass section, all driven by a relentless rhythm. Their music not only entertains but also offers insightful social commentary on the everyday challenges faced by people in 21st-century Britain.
Releasing their debut LP, AKA The Syndicate, in 2021, showcasing their impressive versatility and a diverse array of influences. The album features guest appearances from 2 Tone legend Roddy Radiation of The Specials on two tracks. With relatable social commentary, infectious hooks, and a blend of genres, the LP received rave reviews from fans and garnered airplay on independent radio stations worldwide. Following the album’s success, fans eagerly called for live performances, leading to their first gig in 2021. Since then, the band has played across the UK and even secured a festival slot in Germany.
“They came onstage and launched straight into Two Sides of The City which set the stall out for the night ahead. Infectious and catchy soul grooves were on offer. There must be a big interest in the band as the hall was already three quarters full” - Brighton and Hove news (on AKA The Syndicate supporting Bad Manners at Concorde 2)

“A pop-tinged reggae album that brings to mind a wide variety of other bands, from Madness at their most successful to very early UB40, and maybe even a hint of No Doubt for good measure” – Scootering Magazine

“Just got a wee snippet of AKA The Syndicate. I know I shouldn’t swear but it’s f***ing good! The best British ska / soul / reggae band going” – Jim Paterson, Dexy’s Midnight Runners
​https://www.facebook.com/share/1FinMJbzZh/
https://www.instagram.com/akathesyndicate?igsh=MWVndXNxMDllMnBxcw==

https://youtu.be/xFa_UOz_K-Y?si=f_y32phA2bXv8S_q

☆Cream Soda☆ hail from Medway, but don't expect The Medway Sound, this is loud brash earth shaking stuff and it is wonderful. Certainly, a Power Trio that are not intending to come up for air regularly. Serving You is really noisy, but also incredibly engaging.

There are so many influences to note. Punk is certainly one, but not the mindless type. There are also hints of New Wave, Rhythm lines that compare to early Jam. But there is also a 60s vibe of Garage Rock, Breakbeat and UK Beat.
At times, they are very Canvey Island R and B, an even more aggressive Dr Feelgood perhaps, but for all the up and at 'em attitude, the choruses are memorable, almost football anthemic and these three can play, locked in perfectly.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1DbmTkrFyB/

https://www.instagram.com/medwayscreamsoda?igsh=ZDJvNTluZGExaGU5

Doors 7:30 Bar until 1am Advance tickets £11 or £13 OTD, all major credit cards accepted.

Tickets

General Admission

Tickets are available

` Max 4 tickets per order
Total price: £12.10
Ticket price: £11.00, Booking fee: £1.10

Venue information

LONDON: Hope and Anchor
0 207 Upper Street
Islington
London
N1 1RL
> www.greenking-pubs.co.uk/pubs/greater-london/hope-anchor/
! 0207 7354 1312
` Tube and Overground:Highbury & Islington (nearest) Angel and Essex Road.