The Medicinals

The Medicinals are an eight-piece reggae ensemble hailing from Rochester, New York, united by a shared passion for classic reggae music. The band is fronted by singer-songwriter Dylan Savage, renowned for his work with Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad. The lineup includes William McKenna on bass and vocals, Luke Perry on trombone and vocals, Justin Lloyd on trumpet, Anthony LaPenna on alto saxophone, Lucius Snowden on keyboards, Alex Melville on drums, and Kris Kimmel on percussion. The formation of The Medicinals was deeply personal, originating from weekly jam sessions that served as musical therapy for founding member Dave Bernis. These sessions provided solace and camaraderie, eventually evolving into a cohesive band dedicated to honoring Bernis's memory through their music.

Since their inception, The Medicinals have made significant strides in the reggae scene. They have shared stages with esteemed artists such as Julian Marley, Sublime with Rome, The Wailers, Bumping Uglies, Lettuce, Turkuaz, and Kevin Kinsella of John Brown's Body. Their live performances often feature selections from Dylan Savage's original catalog, including tracks like "Live & Travel" and "Nice Feeling," both of which have been featured on CBS's "Hawaii 5-0" and Netflix's "Bloodlines." In terms of recorded music, The Medicinals have released several singles that showcase their dynamic sound. Their debut single, "We Gonna Get Through," released on June 30, 2020, blends reggae, Afrobeat, and funk, delivering an energizing anthem of hope and resilience. This was followed by "Love the Sound" on June 30, 2023, an uplifting homage to reggae music and their hometown of Rochester.

Their latest single, "Reach You," released on April 11, 2025, conveys a heartfelt message about love, togetherness, and resilience through life's ups and downs. The Medicinals continue to be active in the music scene, performing at various venues and festivals. Notable performances include the Rochester Lilac Festival and the Funky Reggae After Party at Nietzsche's in Buffalo. Their commitment to live performances and recording new music underscores their dedication to spreading positive vibes through reggae music. The Medicinals' journey is a testament to the healing power of music and the enduring spirit of reggae.

Through their heartfelt performances and recordings, they honor their roots while contributing to the evolution of the genre.