Double Barrel

CD Details

Jazz Jamaica released Double Barrel in 1998, a fusion of reggae and jazz that draws from Jamaican musical traditions. Led by Gary Crosby’s group, the album blends ska influences with jazz improvisation, creating a cohesive sound that moves between upbeat reggae rhythms and sophisticated horn arrangements. The band covers classic Jamaican material alongside jazz standards like Herbie Hancock’s “Butterfly,” while also incorporating pop and soul elements such as a distinctive take on “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Rather than a ska band playing jazz, this is a jazz ensemble that embraces Caribbean grooves with confidence and tight musicianship.

This is a single CD on the Hannibal label featuring ten tracks including the title track “Double Barrel,” “Monkey Man,” “(Theme From) Exodus,” “Confucious,” “Shank-Kai-Chek,” “Butterfly,” “Marcus Junior,” “Dewey Square,” “Walk On By,” and “Night Dreamer.” You’ll own a used copy of this reggae and world music hybrid that captures the band’s energetic command of their craft.