Roots reggae legend Israel Vibration is embarking on a statewide tour, kicking things off in Honolulu with a concert Thursday at Pipeline Cafe.

The group, which got its start in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1976 after catching the ear of record producers, has never had it easy.

The original members of the group, Lascelle "Wiss" Bulgin, Cecil "Skelly" Spence and Albert "Apple Gabriel" Craig met as children at a Kingston rehabilitation center, where they were being treated for polio.

A shared belief in the Rastafari faith led to the trio's expulsion from the rehab center, forcing the boys onto the streets, where they sang for their sustenance. They garnered a loyal following, prompting record producers to give them their first contract.

The group rose to reggae fame, working with other roots greats such as Bob Marley and Dennis Brown.

When the less-traditional dancehall form of music gained popularity in the 1980s, Israel Vibration refused to join the club-music-producing masses, holding fast to its roots. Unable to make hit records in the new world of pop reggae, the group moved to New York City and disbanded to pursue solo careers, though none of them took off.

In 1988, the group members reconnected and began making records again, on their terms. The result has been a long and steady career for the group, which spans three decades.

Over the years, Israel Vibration has released 21 albums and has secured its place as one of the most influential roots reggae bands of all time. Today, Israel Vibration is a duo — Craig left the group in 1997 for a second shot at a solo career. Bulgin and Spence continue to tour and perform, backed by longtime friends and fellow musicians Roots Radics.

ISRAEL VIBRATION