The Scofflaws

Long Island, NY

The Scofflaws are an American ska band formed in the late 1980s, hailing from Long Island, New York. They are known for their energetic performances, blending traditional ska with elements of reggae, jazz, and rocksteady. The band is part of the third-wave ska movement, which gained significant popularity in the 1990s, helping to bring ska music back into the mainstream spotlight.

The Scofflaws formed in 1988, during a time when ska was experiencing a revival, particularly in the United States. They were one of the pioneering bands in the ska scene in New York, helping to shape the local and national ska culture. The band was formed by a group of musicians who were influenced by both the early Jamaican ska of the 1960s and the punk rock scene, combining those influences into a distinctive sound.

They are regarded as one of the key bands that helped to shape the ska renaissance of the 1990s. Their commitment to traditional ska sounds, their solid musicianship, and their ability to blend genres made them a standout in a crowded scene. Today, The Scofflaws remain a respected name in ska, known for their role in preserving the roots of the genre while still bringing new life to it during the third wave.