Ska 263 Items

This is the first re-release on 7inch vinyl single of the mythic double sided single credited to producer Joe Gibbs and released in 1968 on Amalgamated Records in the U.K. Although both tracks are credited to Joe Gibbs, many believe the A side “People Grudgeful” was sung by The Ethiopians whilst the B side “Pan Ya Machete” was performed by The Pioneers. “Grudgeful” though does not really sound like The Ethiopians and according to Trojan, both sides were performed by The Pioneers. Which makes sense for several reasons. Firstly, the sound of the song is indeed more reminiscent of the Pioneers/Joe Gibbs work of that time. In fact The Ethiopians did not record with Joe Gibbs, with the exception of The Ring which was released in 1972, four years later, while the Pioneers were routinely involved with Gibbs in 1968. Last but not least, The Ethiopians had no beef with Lee Scratch Perry whilst The Pioneers songs were clearly incriminated by Scratch in his hit song “People Funny Boy. Attention: This is a special limited edition strictly limited to 500 copies - one release only. Note: the number of copies is now included in the catalogue number “hsrss-0023c-500” printed on the single label, “500” standing for 500 copies and C for collector.

THE Pioneers The Pioneers were formed in 1962 by two brothers Derrick and Sidney Crooks and their friend Winston Hewitt later replaced by former Heptone Glen Adams. The Pioneers' early singles were not successful, and the group broke up in 1967 Sydney started working at Joe Gibbs shop and then in the studio where he met a talented new young singer: Jackie Robinson. The new Pioneers were reborn as a duo. They recorded several successful singles such as "Longshot" "Jackpot", "Catch the Beat" with Gibbs before joining producer Leslie Kong where they recorded Samfie Man which topped the Jamaican charts. They then recruited George Agard and became a trio again. They scored in the charts again with "Long Shot (Kick De Bucket)" a sequel to “Long Shot”, the tragic story of a race horse that never won and died racing! “Kick De Bucket” became an instant hit both in Jamaican and in the U.K. particularly among skinheads in 1969. More hits followed and the band moved to the UK in 1970. Over time, their sound changed and became more sophisticated and pop and they eventually recorded soul albums with Eddy Grant as a producer in 1976. It was not successful and the band split before reforming. They have been performing sporadically since then.

Punky reggae rockers from Baltimore, fearlessly lead by singer-guitarist Lady Hatchet. An infectious sound that blends classic Jamaican grooves with 2-Tone spirit, produced/mixed by Dave Hillyard & Agent JAY of THE Slackers. Includes a funky reggae cover of LORDE's "royals". Repressed!

One of the holy grail's of early 90's US ska is back on blood red vinyl. Satanic 2 Tone ska! This debut was released in 1994 with the MTV video hit "doomsday", thirteen tracks inc "saba", "bumble BEE Tuna Song", "dance ME Not" and more!

NEW Dani hit the scene w/SOUL Radics in 2012, releasing several LPs & EPs of blistering ska, reggae, and rocksteady full of gritty soul. In 2019 her comeback began entering the studio with NYC's THE Slackers, resulting in 5 songs contained on this red vinyl 10" mini-LP w/bonus poster.

Reissue time for the 1989 debut album by the Stuttgart classic SKA maniacs originally released on the Unicorn label. No Sports were the main name in the Germany SKA-revival scene of the 80's, along with Skaos, Busters and Blue Beats. Clearly inspired by the 2-tone sounds of Madness and Specials, this legendary band went on for almost 30 years and included 27 musicians in their different line-ups. This long overdue reissue is out on the 'Black Butcher' serie from Mad Butcher Records.

The ‘best band in the world’ finally caves and releases an EP of instant ska-punk classic On limited “bone” colored vinyl “Devon Kay & The Solutions are extremely talented musicians. While their music is always tight and composed, they complement amazing musicianship with clever songwriting, humor, and self-deprecation. The band’s combination of talent and chemistry makes everything they do so damn good. Sure, the songs on this EP are technically ska, but they’re so much more. Each song has a certain gravitas because this band has so much to give.” Dane Jackson, Bearded Gentleman The indestructible indie-punk ensemble helmed by Devon Kay (Direct Hit!) has released a bevy of emotionally gut-wrenching, honest, and raw hits... now they’ve deicded to throw all of that in the trash and make a SKA EP. But in all seriousness, this EP does nothing if not show the true range of the band... they take a traditional ska punk formula, inject it with their signature flair for emotionally open songwriting, and what comes out is a batch of unforgettable songs regardless of genre. Devon Kay & The Solutions more than prove that they can work within the confines of ska on this EP... they transcend it, reminding you that they might

What more can be said about The Slackers? Having released over 20 albums and countless singles over a decades-spanning career that dates back to 1991, the New York City hometown heroes have managed to thrive both underground and internationally in the firmly entrenched revival scenes of ska, punk and rock 'n roll. Their generational impact may be unmatched, especially considering the incredible run and reach that they've made throughout a myriad of tours across North America, Europe and South America. Easily standard bearers for the modern day, working, independent musician, The Slackers have also embodied a very thoughtful and respectful brand of Jamaican roots music and production into their own skilled compositions and writing. It's a concrete connection to the musical roots that makes this particular one-off release on NYCT a prime example of The Slackers in their most classic and reverential stance. Two unreleased exclusive instrumentals in the canonical Jamaican stylee: one ska, one rock steady, two burners on the preferred 7-inch format.

AKATZ are not Jamaicans, nor are they British, nor do they need to. They have been at the crossroads between Kingston and Bilbao chatting with the mocking spirit of the New Orleans Mardi Gras, who has shown them new directions to continue their creative path. The uninitiated will receive this album like headless chickens, as a fierce revelation, and longtime adepts will celebrate the event with offerings of smoke, brandy, and endless dancing.In a journey of almost 30 years, Akatz have developed their own personality that makes them easily recognizable, genuine and unique. Hardened in a thousand battles, they have always paid as much attention to creating quality music as to turning each concert into an unrepeatable party.YUYU was registered in November 2019 in the studios of Kaki Arkarazo (Kortatu, Negu Gorriak) and, pending publication, the curse of the pandemic ensued. Therefore, the band's first self-imposed mission has been to cast these 12 spells to the four winds. There are twelve songs of classic ska, reggae and Jamaican jazz with a R&B dressing, and essences of danceable swing and punk attitude. Lifelong melodies, with rhythm, swing, beat and flow, and a compositional solidness that would admit multiple readings of each song by musicians of different origins and backgrounds.YUYU presents a universe populated by creatures that seem fantastic but that - in reality - live among us, and that the band unmasks with fine clairvoyance. An album that can be enjoyed from the first taste. With fun, uncomplicated and well-crafted songs all sprinkled with a good dose of rhythm and blues.It is clear that AKATZ has been at the crossroads between Kingston and Bilbao, chatting with the mocking spirit of New Orleans Mardi Gras, who has shown them new directions to continue their creative path. The uninitiated will receive this album like headless chickens, as a fierce revelation, and longtime adepts will celebrate the event with offerings of smoke, brandy, and endless dancing.

Brand new album from Chicago's ska punk powerhouse who deliver a 90s style reminiscent of THE Muffs, Less Than Jake or Dance Hall Crashers. Top shelf vocals from Caitlin Rose who leads the brass-heavy troop through 10 killer high-octane pop punk fueled ska tunes. Random color vinyl. (jump UP)

The second 7" in the Konduko series reissues this mega-rarity, Noel Williams aka King Sporty's own version of Bob Marley's Concrete Jungle. The connection between Marley and Williams was long-standing, both living in the tenements of West Kingston and gaining their musical foundations as part of the Studio One, that would reach fruition when they later co-wrote Buffalo Soldier together.

Clement Dodd's organisation was more than a label, running a sound system, studio, pressing plant and its own distribution. As Deejay on the system and later releasing his debut single on the label, William's learnt his craft, taking this knowledge to Miami and replicating much - expanding the Konduko label to encompass studio, plant and distribution.

First recorded with Lee Perry, Marley's 1971 original was famously rerecorded for The Wailers move to Island Records and their 1973 album, Catch A Fire. Here, a rare Williams' vocal is backed with horns atop a reggae-funk groove. The songs message of struggle is universal and everlasting, even with a touch of Miami swing.

This is backed by Young Girl, a single in its own right, from the same period. A rocksteady, breakbeat shuffle bely the songs roots in late 60s soul, with a powerful counterpoint vocal from wife and partner, Betty Wright. A collector's item itself, together they are essential.

Brand new album from all-star Denver band, 10 tracks of top-shelf ska-jazz instrumentals for fans of THE SKATALTES or modern acts like NEW YORK SKA JAZZ ENSEMBLE. Tracks range from BLUE NOTE flavored rock steady to uptempo scorching ska with a 2-TONE feel. A truly wonderful listen.

Classic 1995 third wave ska classic pressed on vinyl for the very first time! One of THE TOASTERS best selling albums of all time, released in the USA, Germany, Japan with a worldwide tour in support of the album. 14 trax on marble vinyl, now in a full picture sleeve. Repressed!

Brand new album from Minneapolis ska/reggae/rocksteady band, who've backed many Jamaican greats inc Derrick Morgan and Stranger Cole. Twelve tracks of authentic Jamaican foundation sounds for fans of Trojan, Studio 1 and Treasure Isle. Golden orange vinyl with insert

Brand new album from Washington DC ska-jazz legends, who are regulars on the European ska/reggae festival scene. Twelve tracks of uptempo scorching instrumental ska, laid back soulful vocal rocksteady and reggae vibes. Includes new versions of their "the Dragon" 7 inch. Red vinyl.

Debut album from Toronto based singer who unleashes a dozen tracks of 90's style ska-punk for fans of Dance Hall Crashers or Save Ferris. Guests inc Tara from Half Past TWO and Aaron Barrett & Scott from Reel BIG Fish. Nice bright yellow vinyl with insert.

Repress of second LP from Minnesota's top traditional ska/rocksteady act, a great mix of Treasure Isle and Studio ONE style tunes. The band has backed Derrick Morgan, Stranger Cole, ROY & Yvonne and their last studio project helped revive the career of Charley Organaire. Twelve tracks. Repress on yellow vinyl.

Debut full length from Texas singer Jon Bravo with his all star band feat Roger Rivas (aggrolites), Dave Hillyard (the Slackers) produced by Esteban Flores (the Interrupters/catbite). Eleven tracks of scorching Jamaican ska, soulful rocksteady, and hard hitting boss reggae. Repress on white vinyl.

Jump UP and Detroit producer Eric "super Tiger" Mazurak create a twelve trax rots reggae sampler with vinyl exclusives from John Bunkley (gangster Fun), Gain Stages, JAH Ques, Leaving Lifted, Rachael Stokes (the Tellways), plus Jade Tremba of Rude Girl Revue & Scotch Bonnets. White wax ltd 250 copies.

Latest album from all-star Boston traditional ska/reggae act formed by ex members of Westbound Train and THE Toasters Ten trax of jazzy Jamaican vibes guests include Steve Jackson (the Pietasters), Alex Desert (hepcat), MR T T Bone, D. Hillyard (slackers) & THE Expanders. Repress orange wax.

Second album from long running NYC ska pop new wave act, mixed by Agent JAY of THE Slackers. Multiple US tours including an appearance at Sxsw21 under their belt, this female fronted powerhouse delivers 8 tracks including a cover of Bikini KILL's "rebel Girl". Limited edition pink vinyl.

Debut album from DC roots reggae / lovers rock band mixed by VICTOR RICE. Formed by current and former members of THE PIETASTERS, feat lush vocals of KELLY DI FLIPPO. Think THE BEATLES meets DENNIS BROWN, a must for fans of THE FRIGHTNRS, HOLLIE COOK or THE SKINTS. Songs of heartbreak...

Originally released on MOON NYC in 1997, this third wave ska classic back on vinyl once again. Feat big MTV hits "I WASN'T GOING TO CALL YOU ANYWAY" & "2 TONE ARMY", 14 total tracks. Finally repressed with a full picture sleeve.

The Bluebeaters landmark debut album from 1999 receives a first-ever vinyl release. Featuring band's hits like Cher's "Believe" or Black's "Wonderful Life" all cooked in a strictly mid 60s Jamaican Blue Beat & Rock Steady style. Gatefold 2LP clear vinyl with printed inserts, limited to 500 copies, instant collector's item. Record Kicks in collaboration with Universal Music Italy presents the release of The Bluebeaters seminal debut LP "The Album" for the first time ever on wax on a limited edition clear vinyl double LP on March 31. Way before the vinyl comeback of the 2010s, "The Album" was released in 1999 on CD and on two limited edition promo 12"s that are now very in-demand in the scene on V2 Records. "The Album" marked a generation of Soul, Rock Steady and Reggae fans in Italy selling over 40.000 physical copies and now 24 years after its original release, it gets published on full vinyl. Fronted by "The King" Giuliano Palma on vocals backed with members of cult Italian bands of the 90s such as "Casino Royale", "Africa Unite" and "Fratelli di Soledad", The Bluebeaters' analog recordings finally find the vinyl format they deserve. On the album's track list you can find Jamaican music classics such as "World's Fair" from the Skatalites, Joe Higgs' "There's a Reward" or Bob Marley's "Coming In From The Cold" mixed with hits such as Cher's "Believe", Black's "Wonderful Life" or even 1978 "See You Tonite" by Gene Simmons from The Kiss that perfectly sound as if they were recorded by Clement "Coxsone" Dodd at Studio1 in Kingston in 1966. The Bluebeaters are not newcomers on Record Kicks, the Milan label released their "Everybody Knows" album in 2015. Top Italian musicians in love with vintage Jamaican ska and reggae and blessed by Ken Booth, during the last 25 years of their career they headlined festivals like Rototom Sunsplash and International Ska Fest in London. Among their fans, they count the likes of Gaz Mayall, David Rodigan and the legendary late lamented Lloyd Knibb (The Skatalites).

Record Store Day 2023 exclusive limited to 1300 copies.

Following on from Part 2 (released exclusively for Record Store Day 2021) ‘I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side Volume 3’ includes 12 Madness B-Sides across hit singles from Wonderful’s ‘Lovestruck’, ‘Johnny The Horse’ and ‘Drip Fed Fred’ to The Dangermen Sessions’ ‘Shame & Scandal’, including covers of Kilburn And The High Road’s ‘The Roadette Song’ and Horace Andy’s ‘Skylarking’. Released on 180g heavyweight Black Vinyl, the LP features brand new artwork designed by Paul Agar in association with the band.

Ireland, 2014, a group of seasoned musicians came together to form The Hacklers. Influenced by the sound of The Specials, Bad Manners, Stiff Little Fingers and Bob Marley, they quickly built a strong live reputation in Ireland and after a set on the east German This Is Ska stage, they never looked back. The Hacklers have since then played numerous festivals in the UK and on the European mainland, such as Brutus Oi Festival in Camden, Ruhrpott Ska Explosion and Ska Im Westend in Dortmund, Kippertronix in Snowdonia, Wales, Oi! For You Fest in Magdenburg, Spirit from the Street Fest and Berlin Ska City Festival.They shared the stage with bands like The Beat, The Aggrolites, Bad Manners and The Selecter, just to name a few. Wherever they played they brought passion and fire to the stage, and got crowds dancing, racking up an ever growing fan base. By now The Hacklers had developed their own distinguished sound, a mix of ska and skinhead reggae but with their own unique `extra stout' Irish flavour.Their debut album Between The Lines was released on Contra Records in October 2015. Between touring and gigging, they also joined forces with other bands to contribute to 3 of the Specialized Projects, which raises funds to improve the lives of teens and young adults with cancer or who are living in difficult circumstances. They did Stop The Train for the Bob Marley Tribute release, 3 Card Trick for the Combat Cancer, a Tribute to The Clash and reworked the Desmond Dekker song Dracula for the Tribute to Original Sounds of Ska.The loss of their brother and guitar player Bob just one day after finishing recording their second album Another Round in December 2019 was a massive blow in the gut for the guys.After taking some time and talking to friends and family, they decided to team up with Smith & Miller Records and release the album in 2020. And even though someone else will have to play that guitar now, Bob will never be forgotten, and his spirit will forever linger in The Hacklers' sound.

Reissued for the very first time on a limited vinyl edition, here’s the fifth work of the godfather of ska Laurel Aitken. Originally released in 1973 on Count Shelly Records, “Moria Sofia” was completely written, arranged, produced and sung by Aitken himself. The album is a skillful blend of soul & calypso tunes with a splash of rocksteady. A mandatory gem to be rediscovered by all Jamaican music fans!

This is the first volume of the HOT Sauce compilation LPs dedicated to the Trojan related UK labels between 1965 and 1975. The initial plan is for at least 3 albums of 14 titles. HOT Sauce Volume 1 features Rocksteady, Boss Reggae, early Dub & early Reggae outstanding original Jamaican tracks including rare songs, overlooked gems, hidden treasures and some hits. The record labels showcased on the first volume are Attack, Amalgamated, Black Swan, Blue Cat, Downtown, Doctor Bird, Duke, Grape, High Note, Randy’s and Trojan. The tracks here have been selected according to their musical interest firstly, their rarity, and their complementarity. These tracks are all outstanding tracks, “killer tracks”, there are no “fillers” whatsoever. Particular attention has been paid to the way the songs are sequenced (or “mixed”) so that the album builds up nicely and gradually, generally starting with the Rocksteady songs on the A side and the 70s songs on the B side. HOT Sauce is a musical journey across the early Reggae UK labels and across different Jamaican musical genres & talents and the way they interact together. Since the early 70s “Tighten Up” series, no compilation have really explored these labels in depth on vinyl…

In the 1950s, Jamaican dancehall regulars were crazy about the haunting sounds of American Rhythm & Blues. But in the mid-1950s, Rock 'n' Roll began to replace RnB in America, and Jamaican dancehall owners like Duke Reid and Clement Dodd turned to local musicians to record their own versions of American RnB. The trend of covering foreign hits exploded during the Ska heyday of the early 60s and continued through the Rocksteady and Reggay eras. Jamaican musicians have covered virtually every genre of music, from jazz and rock to film scores, television soundtracks, pop, classical music and more. Over the years, they have also recorded many "versions" of already existing covers. Cover of cover of cover… Admittedly, some of these covers were futile but many were sublime as this new and eclectic collection of Ska, Rocksteady and Reggay nuggets, compiled by the very competent and very charming D.J. Héléa, brilliantly demonstrates. Attention we are here "undercover", there are no well-known covers. Some of the tracks selected are rare, others unknown or forgotten - but all are excellent and blended in an impeccable mix, in line with previous the Harlem Shuffle compilations... All Killer, No Filler! Reggay Undercover is an exciting musical kaleidoscope of Jamaican and Reggae music from the early 60s through to the mid 70s. We hope you will enjoy listening to this album as much as we had composing it for you. All aboard for Reggay Undercover!

A 12-inch featuring classic roots/dub tracks, originally recorded in 1978.

In 1997 Bad Manners released their 8th album of original studio material not including live recordings, comps and bootlegs. This album however, is none of the above. This is a compilation of demos, outtakes, remixes and rarities from the Bad Manners vaults.

Italian Jamaican boogie, calypso & ska trio's latest album now on tape for Cassette Week 2020. Includes wonderful versions of "got MY Mojo Working", "buona Sera", "l-o-v-e", "that's Amore", "down IN Mexico", and the title track. Popular in Europe and have several Japanese releases.

California based ska/reggae act teams up with the singers from 60's British legends Symarip for a collectible maxi 10" single with two new songs plus dubs from Roger Rivas (the Aggrolites). Both ROY Ellis and Monty Neysmith shine on these rootsy reggae cuts. Sleeve art by Chema Skandal

UP red vinyl reissue of classic 1997 ska-punk masterpiece by NYC act. Gained national attention on MTV's 120 minutes, this 2nd album was ahead of it's time! Extravagant rhythms heralded a new shift into experimental territories with funky breaks, avant garde solos and metal/hardcore forays!

Washington DC's messengers of ska-jazz are back with their first new studio album since 2010. Their signature sound of bop jazz, Jamaican ska, blended with soul and reggae is intact - and has made them a perennial touring act all across Europe. Includes their cover version of SAM COOKE's "CHANGE IS GONNA COME".

Russian ska reggae act's all dub outing, an inspired opus with beautiful solos, guitars, brass & percussion. Nine reinterpretations of standards by Miles Davis, Dizzy Dillespie, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Henry Mancini and more, superb mix by Victor Rice. Heavyweight black vinyl.

Spanish ska-Oi! band Decibelios were initially around from 1980 to 1990 and they released a handful of albums during that decade. They returned in 2014 with a new album and tour. Recorded live 25.02.2017 in Texcoco, Mexico at the "Festival Comunion Punk & Skin". Limited edition of 300 copies with printed innersleeve and CD of the complete concert.

Jump UP Christmas 45 tradition continues with this double header of new & original holiday songs! Specialized UK champs THE Skapones don chimes on the 2 Tone skanker "ring THE Bells" flipped w/ DC's Scotch Bonnets dance floor pearl "winter Reggae Party". White vinyl repress ltd 250 copies

Jump UP's Xmas tradition continues with Florida ska/reggae/soul champs THE Freecoasters putting a delightful Jamaican spin on Donny Hathaway's "this Christmas" & Stevie Wonder "what Christmas Means TO ME". Claire LIPARULO's powerful voice invokes Stax/motown emotions beautifully. Green & red wax

First two cassette tape releases now on heavyweight metallic copper vinyl limited to 250 copies. A loving tribute to dank 70s dub reggae, deeply in debt to the original Jamaican engineers who turned their mixing consoles into the lead instrument a la LEE Perry and King Tubby.

Punky reggae rockers from Baltimore, fearlessly lead by singer-guitarist LADY HATCHET. An infectious sound that blends classic Jamaican grooves with 2-Tone spirit, produced/mixed by DAVE HILLYARD & AGENT JAY of THE SLACKERS. Includes a funky reggae cover of LORDE's "ROYALS".

This first instrumental project from Equiknoxx Music’s Nick “Bobby Blackbird” Deane, was conceptualized in 2015, after choreographer Liane Williams needed theme music for her dance documentary: “5, 6,7,8 Diaries”. Starting life as a voice note sent to musical partner Gavin “Gavsborg” Blair, the ska tune was fully conceived in Deane’s mind from keys to horns. That sound was almost still born when he met in a near-fatal motor vehicle accident in July, 2015 leaving him hospitalized and bed-ridden for near 3 months.
With time to contemplate the importance of creativity in his life Bobby emerged from recovery determined to bring the song, and watercolour self-portrait to life. While metal pins held the bones in his hand together, Bobby enlisted the talents of friends to record “The Master Blenda” at Anchor Studios in one night. The ensemble featured none other than Grammy nominated Raging Fyah band members: Anthony “ToniDrumz” Watson (drums), Delroy “Pele” Hamilton (bass), Demar “Demz” Gayle (piano), and Courtland “Gizmo” White (guitar). For added authenticity, the Equiknoxx founders called upon keyboard legend Franklyn “Bubbler” Wahl of “The Professionals” fame and Grammy winning horn maestro “Stingwray” who delivered a blazing trumpet solo on top of all horn accompaniments.
Not content with revisiting one classic genre of Jamaican music, the Equiknoxx crew went genuine dub of the track on Side B, dicing the vocals of Exile Di Brave with the reverb-laced punches led by Jordan “Time Cow” Chung, Gavsborg and Bobby Blackbird himself. The track was tied together with a mix from Olo Mothashipp in Warsaw, Poland and mastered by Nick Sinna in Manchester, UK.
The result is a global labour of love and a monument to passion in creative endeavour. Inspired by a dancer, made sound by musicians and painted by the artist: The Master Blenda is true to its name. An artisan’s take on marrying spirits to become more than the sum of their arts. Hopefully Bobby has made the famed Appleton Master Blender (and his former mentor), Dr. Joy Spence proud.