J-Ska is one of these genres. J-Ska is the shorted form of Japanese Ska. The genre of ska originally came from the island nation of Jamaica. It spread quickly from there in its earliest form, usually called today reggae. From its roots in reggae, ska was influenced by the punk movement and was transformed into ska as we know it today.
Japanese Ska music is often grouped in with J-pop, or J-Rock, and while it has been heavily influenced by these two genres, it definitely has its own sound. Ska music according to Dictionary.com is notable for its shuffling, scratch like tempo and jazz like horn riffs on the offbeat. The Japanese have mixed this with the upbeat, slightly electronic feel that is associated with J-Pop to create a unique and independent genre.
Of all the Japanese Ska bands that are playing right now the Tokyo Paradise Ska Orchestra, SkaPara for short, is the best known band. There are many others that are doing quite well, including Oreskaband, and Yum! Yum! Orange. As it stands right now, the genre is growing larger in America and these J-ska bands stand ready to take over the market when it gets large enough.
Oreskaband
In summation, the Japanese have taken the Jamaican style of music and revolutionized it to fit with the modern world. And these bands stand ready to dominate the world Ska market once it grows large enough.
