Search - Joe Ferry :: Big Ska

In their song "Roots," Rich Carlstedt of the Israelites sings "we've got to keep the sound alive now and never let it die." Well, the Israelites have certainly done much to breathe new life into the the art of authentic ska music with the release of several classic-sounding albums as well as touring on the West Coast and in other places in the US. Several years ago Carlstedt formed his own label which became home to the Israelites as well the imprint for several nice compilations of ska, rocksteady and reggae. After several name changes, it seems that Carlstedt has settled on the Shantytown Records monikor, which brings us to the album here. "Big Ska" by Joe Ferry is the first release to bear the Shantytown Records symbol and it is truly worthy of being associated with a label known for producing authentic ska, rocksteady and reggae. Ferry, who has produced for the legendary Skatalites (as well as other notable performers), has given us a real treat here with ten nicely varied tracks lovingly recorded for the true ska connoisseur. Working with most of the musicians from his "Skallelujah" project a few years back, it is very evident that Joe and the crew have a wonderful chemistry which makes "Big Ska" very much a group effort. The album contains many highlights including a couple of Tommy McCook compositions ("Ska Boss" and "Swing Easy"), the Abyssinians roots anthem "Satta Masa Gana," and more.