Though Southern California’s reggae scene draws scant attention from much of the mainstream media, in truth it is a burgeoning phenomenon. Drawing musicians from around the country to play a circuit of clubs and festivals that peaks each summer, reggae has become almost as much a part of the Southern California experience as mariachi music. While there are a slew of groups currently making inroads, few have managed to make the impact of The International Farmers. Winners of the 2007 Los Angeles Music Awards for “Best Reggae Band,” The International Farmers perform at Winston’s on Sept. 26. Formed by bassist Jeremy Odom and guitarist Danny Primavera during the summer of 2001 in Atlanta, the pair relocated to Southern California the following year. By 2005, the group had solidified into a six-piece group, including Primavera and Odom, as well as keyboardist Jamie Bullock, drummer Preston Nelson, saxophonist Brian Landau and singer Lara Beers. The band took its name from Jamaican artist Peter Broggs’ 1982 single “International Farmer.” “It was a favorite of ours when we were brainstorming for a name,” Primavera said. “The word ‘international’ suggests the idea of many different countries or cultures, while ‘farmers’ gives thought to the cultivation of crops and harvesting.  It allows for the band to expand on the idea of reggae; if music is our crop, then we will use many influences and take it international.” While The International Farmers’ sound veers into several different genres, Primavera considers reggae their foundation. “We started the band with the intention of incorporating all the music we loved,” he said. “Hip-hop was a big influence from our childhood on, and soul music was always there as well. Meanwhile, our parents were always listening to oldies, R&B and classic rock ’n’ roll while growing up, so they became favorites as well.” It’s this unique mix of influences that sets The International Farmers apart. They also consider lyrical content to be key to their songs. “Reggae is a type of music where the message is extremely important.  If you have a voice, you must raise it,” Primavera said.   The group released its first album “Closer Than Close” in August 2007.  “It was named after the title of the first song we wrote,” he said. “We knew we had a great album on our hands when we finished, so we felt closer to our goal of being full-time musicians.” In addition to their LAMA win, 2007 also saw the band score a turntable hit with their song “Silly Bird,” landing the tune on an industry CD compilation, “Fresh Produce Vol. 5.” Although the band loves to tour, Primavera noted the new difficulties musicians are having even just getting together for rehearsal. “Touring has become more difficult with the rise in gas prices,” he said. “Plus, three of us live in Manhattan Beach, two live in Long Beach and one in Hesperia.  Getting together for shows, rehearsals and studio time always takes time and effort. But it’s well worth it.” The International Farmers perform at Winston’s, 1921 Bacon St., on Friday, Sept. 26. 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.winstonsob.com.