New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble (+The Bartenders)

The Godfathers of ska-jazz in Warsaw! The only concert in Poland!

New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble (NYSJE) is a collective that has seamlessly fused the infectious rhythms of ska with the improvisational brilliance of jazz since 1994. They pioneered the genre known as "ska-jazz" – a crossover characterized by energetic brass sections, powerful grooves, and virtuosic solo passages. To date, they have released over a dozen albums and performed their music on the stages of all major festivals around the world.

Led by saxophonist Rocksteady Freddie, they deliver high-energy performances showcasing the masterful musicianship of some of the most respected musicians on the ska and jazz scene. Their sound pays homage to ska pioneers from Jamaica while infusing elements of bebop, swing, and Latin jazz. It remains a uniquely compelling concert experience – contemporary live music of the highest caliber.

NYSJE comprises: "Rocksteady Freddie" Reiter (saxophone, flute, bandleader), Kevin "KB" Batchelor (trumpet, vocals), Mark Damon (bass guitar, vocals), Cary Brown (keyboards, vocals), Andy Stack (guitar, vocals), Craig Santiago (drums).

Joining NYSJE will be The Bartenders, a Polish ska-jazz collective celebrating their twentieth anniversary this year.

This ska-jazz event of 2026 will take place at the Bardzo Bardzo club in Warsaw on June 28. If you love ska, Ellington-style jazz, dynamic grooves, and live improvisation – you must be there.