Jimmy Skaffa

Emerging from Omaha, Nebraska, Jimmy Skaffa established itself as a standout ska ensemble in the Midwest. Ex-members from the area's ska groups Knuckle Junction and Porkpie Conspiracy launched the project in 1992, gradually expanding the lineup to its present ten-piece configuration, which features an impressive horn section alongside the appealing vocals of frontman Robin Goodwin. The group launched its career energetically through the 1993 independent release of an eight-track cassette titled Nobody Tells a Navy Man He's Had Too Much to Drink, followed by widespread touring that included performances alongside acts such as the Wailers, Black Uhuru, the Toasters, Let's Go Bowling, and Murphy's Law. Omaha-based Two Olive Martini Records then issued two additional projects: the 1996 seven-inch single Bitch on Sunday and the band's inaugural full-length effort, Cliché. Advancing to a broader audience came next when the ensemble inked a deal with the prominent ska and swing label Slimstyle, resulting in the 1999 issuance of their sophomore album, Six Bullets Past Midnight.