Jazz Jamaica

Jazz Jamaica

Jazz Jamaica is a London-based group formed in 1991 by veteran jazz double bassist Gary Crosby, a former Jazz Warrior. The project begins as a fusion of Jamaican musical forms and jazz, with a focus on combining mento, ska, reggae and jazz. It plays both classic and modern jazz standards alongside Jamaican folk songs.

Style and approach

The group develops its sound from the rhythmic patterns of traditional Jamaican music and the improvisational character of jazz. Its music is often described as skazz, a blend of ska and jazz that also draws on reggae and mento. Crosby builds the line-up by bringing in musicians from both jazz and reggae backgrounds, and many are established players in their own right.

Line-up and development

Over time, Crosby expands the project by introducing younger jazz musicians, enlarging the pool of performers associated with Jazz Jamaica and extending the range of music it covers. The group remains active, and Kenrick Rowe is listed among its members.