SHOK WAVE: NEW MUSIC RELEASES 7/1/2025

Is Ska Still a “Thing” in Jamaica? Welcome to Episode 1, where the team explores the role of ska today - in Jamaica! To cut straight to the chase: we believe it absolutely is. And to prove it, Tip-A-Top Records producer Jay Schaetz set off in the summer of 2024 on a journey to Kingston, Jamaica, with the goal of recording local jazz musicians for a tribute to The Skatalites. The session took place at Tuff Gong Studio - formerly Federal Recording Studio - the legendary site where many of the original ska recordings were made during the early 1960s. Despite interruptions caused by Hurricane Beryl, the team successfully captured 15 instrumental tracks, which were later mixed at Moonlitegroover Recording Studio in Switzerland. To mark this special occasion, co-producer Herbie Miller - director and curator of the Jamaican Music Museum - assembled a lineup of distinguished local musicians. Mr. Miller is a respected historian, ethnomusicologist, and former producer for both Peter Tosh and The Skatalites, having produced their iconic “Stretching Out” live recording in 1983. During the same week, a second session was held featuring a brand-new eight-piece ska band made up of some of the top young jazz talents in Jamaica. Thirteen of the island’s most accomplished musicians were assembled to celebrate the legacy of The Skatalites, including Vivian Scott, Hopeton Williams (trumpet), Avory Crooks, Everald Gayle, Romeo Gray (trombone), Richard ‘Isax’ Howse (alto sax, flute), Everton Gayle, Oshane Love (tenor sax), Tafawee Buchsaecab (baritone sax), Kenroy Mullings (guitar), Leon Duncan (bass), and Clayon Samuels (drums). Producer and musician Jay Schaetz is featured on piano.