Fusion music
A music genre which combines two or more genres
Ska
A fusion of Rhythm 'n' Blues and Mento.
Rhythm 'n' Blues
A sped up version of the blues played on electric guitar and bass
Mento
Similar to calypso. Usually features acoustic guitar, banjo, drums and a rhumba box. Lyrics deal with everyday life and political issues
5 musical features of Ska
Uses Jazz instruments. Usually has a walking bass line. Four crochet beats per bar. Off-beat rhythms. Some instrumental pieces, some has lyrics.
Reggae
A fusion of ska and rocksteady music
Rocksteady differs to ska
Half-speed, trombone replaced by piano and more prominent brass
Delay
A note is played and the same note is then played back. Delay is produced by taking a recording of the initial sound and then playing it back. It gives a type of echo effect.
Reggae instruments
Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar, Saxophone, Drum kit, Organ
Reggae beats per bar
4 beats per bar
Reggae rhythms
Repeated off-beat quavers
Reggae effects
Delay
Reggae chords
Simple chord sequences
Reggae structure
Verse and chorus form
The skank
Emphasis on beats 2 and 4
Reggae lyric themes
Usually political