NEW RELEASE

Maybe it’s intentional, maybe it’s just a sweet coincidence. Either way, the name of Jamaica’s first homegrown ska band since the 1960s lines up perfectly with Ska-Racha, the Skatalites’ 1964 take on La Cucaracha. That alone should make ska lovers smile.

But anyway, here’s the real good news. Ska is alive and kicking in Kingston again. Skaracha is a brand-new, fully self-contained nine-piece band, that mixes young blood with seasoned players. Swiss musician and producer Jay Schaetz is part of the lineup, helping shape the sound without sanding off the rough edges.

Their debut release comes as a proper two-track 7″ single on Tip Top Records. One side is Stuck In My Head, led by the confident vocals of Ladonnice Lewis. On the flip, Deep Within Me goes instrumental, giving space for horns, riddim, and feel to do the talking. This release is worth any ska head’s attention.