20th anniversary edition of the ultimate Skatalites collection. Originally released in 1997, Foundation Ska contains all the hits that the legendary ska supergroup recorded during their brief existence. Although the band performed in various formations throughout the 1960s, it was during the ska years that at least a few members of the band would end up on everything that Coxsone Dodd's Studio One would release. Due to Dodd's preference of releasing singles under the composer or soloists name, many of the songs featured here did not originally appear under the group's name. It's an instrumental heavy set the serves to emphasize just how essential the Skatalites were to the creation of ska. Includes the songs: "Exodus," "Simmer Down," "Don-De-Lion," "Eastern Standard Time," "Silver Dollar," "Scandal Ska," and "Occupation." Thirty-two tracks in all. Released by Studio One on double vinyl housed in a full color sleeve with a printed insert.

• 20th anniversary edition
• double vinyl pressing
• printed insert
• music label: Studio One 2017

reviewed by Natty Matty 04/2017