A History of Ska@ Part 3

Third wave ska has often been dubbed “ska-punk” and has a very different sound from its predecessors. The genre has a fusion sound of both original ska music and punk rock, although many modern-day bands have drifted from the original sounds of the genre. An offshot of ska-punk, skacore, is a fusion of ska and hardcore and is part of the third wave movement.

Most of the third wave success stories come from within the United States, but ska music in other countries, particularly the UK, is still going strong in its modern form (although British ska music these days often has a more “traditional” sound, whereas American ska is often closer to the punk side of things). Some examples of third wave ska bands are Reel Big Fish, Catch 22, Sublime and No Doubt (in their early career).

Although third wave ska is still going today, it hit its peak in the late ‘90s and lacks the same popularity that it had. Many third wave ska bands are still being formed and are still releasing records and performing. Ska music will likely be around for a long time in one way or another, and it will be interesting to see where this ever evolving genre goes next.