A few days before the 20th anniversary of This Is Ska festival, the accompanying compilation album arrived from Pork Pie Records. After a first listen, I couldn’t think of a better way to get in the mood for two days of ska at this legendary fest at the end of every June. And I’m sure it will also be a great companion driving home after the weekend, or thinking back on it in the coming months.
The long and rich history of This Is Ska is represented by a string of hits from bands that have shaped the festival’s legendary status, with up to 3.000 people joining the fun in the beautiful water castle yard, come rain come shine.
While This Is Ska brings together all styles of ska every year, one strong focus has always been on European post 2-Tone bands, like The Toasters, The Hotknives, Mark Foggo, Mr. Review, The Busters, Skaos, El Bosso & die Ping Pongs and Die Tornados. All have appeared multiple times and most of them will be here for the 20th anniversary. The first generation is also represented on the compilation with Derrick Morgan and Doreen Shaffer. You have features of more recent artists like Leo & The Lineup, Soul Radics, The Talks and Buster Shuffle „One Night Out“, and even newcomers like Johnny Reggae Rub Foundation with their cool Misfits cover „Attitude.“
There is a positive vibe about the whole compilation of 22 tracks that combines drive and melodies, songs and rhythms. It’s the trademark of a scene that has a lot of tradition to offer, but is still going strong. I hope to see you all at This Is Ska. Bring your sun milk
