Few bands can get away with the title "legendary" appearing next to their name on a bill. But even fewer bands have backed up an internationally recognized superstar and survived to talk about it.

After more than three decades of touring, original reggae veterans The "Legendary" Wailers will be jamming in the name of Lord Marley on Monday at Crowbar, 420 E. College Ave., with opening act Townhall. The group features members that originally played with late reggae figurehead Bob Marley. Doors open at 8 p.m., with the show beginning at 9 p.m.

"Bob Marley and The Wailers have perpetuated reggae music to where it is. They are one of the few groups that can play anywhere and be recognized," Crowbar co-manager J.P. Mills said. "You just hear their name and you immediately think of reggae, of a good vibe, people dancing."

Best known for reggae classics such as "Jammin'," and "I Shot the Sheriff," as well as slower ballads such as "No Woman, No Cry," Marley and The Wailers found success by exposing their cultural music to the world, while still making a statement and spreading their own peaceful vibe. Fans can still expect The Wailers to play many of Marley's best-known songs today, as well as original Wailers material.

Currently led by bassist Aston "Familyman" Barrett, the Jamaican outfit is in the middle of its 30th world tour. To celebrate this historic timing, Barrett assembled a touring band containing more original Wailers than ever before.

Although perhaps not as immediately recognizable as Marley, "Familyman" has been a strong force in the creation and evolution of reggae music. A multi-instrumentalist who has appeared on numerous reggae recordings, "Familyman" is the only living musician who worked with Marley constantly from the beginning of his career until his death.

The Wailers formed in the late 1960's as a product of the early Jamaican ska scene. Along with Marley and Barrett, the group featured other famous reggae names such as Peter Tosh, but did not become Marley's official backup band until 1971 after signing to Island Records. As the bigger names left the group to pursue solo careers, "Familyman" and Marley emerged as the musical leaders.

With Marley in front, the group's music was a mix of political statements, religious messages, general good-time feelings and basic love songs, set to a standard reggae beat. The Wailers recorded several classic albums with Marley and toured with him until his 1981 death.

Today, The Wailers continue to spread Marley's legacy and message. Aside from original members "Familyman," guitarist Al Anderson, and organist Earl "Wya" Lindo, the touring line-up also includes a horn section that has not toured with the group very often.

"They've been doing their thing for so long, but they're still doing it with a smile, whether it's the Crowbar for 700 people, or a huge show in Jamaica," Mills said.

Recently, The Wailers' name has been recognized in several places. The group appeared on Sharin' in the Groove: Celebrating the Music of Phish, a fund-raising tribute to the Vermont jam band.

In addition, Time magazine named Marley's 1977 album Exodus, featuring The Wailers, "Best Album of the Century," while Spin magazine named them the fourth greatest band of all time.

Many students understand the originality that The Wailers brought to the world of music.

"They are just a unique sound," said Kathryn Wolfe (sophomore-division of undergraduate studies). "They just have an earthly sound and it's very real. I love reggae and always have."

The show is all-ages, and tickets are $15.