The Rough Guide to Ska

Some of the sound quality isn't great, but that comes with the territory. The inclusion of several ska prototypes showing the evolution of ska from its American R&B models are especially inspired. The jump blues of Bunny & Skitter, Alton & Eddie's Jamaican doo-wop, and examples of trombonist Rico Rodrigues' sublime early 60s blowing are among these. Additionally, songs such as Lester Sterling's instrumental Skaramont, which steals from Cuban standard "Besame Mucho" and The Skatalites' "Ska-Racha" (a reworking of Mexican classic "La Cucaracha") show how music from other neighbours fed into the mix. Of the ska proper material, highlights include a couple of great Maytals tunes and one by Trinidad born calypsonian Lord Creator. There's a sweetly naive early recording by Cornell Campbell as well as three charming numbers by The Skatalites themselves, including the marvellously loping "Freedom Ska". Everyone will have their own favourites, but one thing's for sure; you'll be doing the "Baby Elephant Walk" all the way over to the replay button. --Jon Lusk