Ska has returned to Bakersfield. Dozens of local ska enthusiasts showed up at Chencho’s Bar and Grill, adjacent to the Bakersfield Dome, for the first Ska Reggae night.

The all-ages event was light on reggae but heavy on ska. For those unfamiliar with ska, it is a form of music originating from Jamaica that is best described as a combination of punk and reggae elements. It also prominently features its characteristic dance, known as skanking.

The show featured local bands Fuzzy Pink, Acapulco Sunrise, Sell Yourself and Vanity Avenue.

Throughout the show, the dance floor became packed as ska aficionados “skanked” furiously to the more upbeat songs, then quietly rocked back and forth as the music calmed down, all the while happily smiling.

Manny, front man of Vanity Avenue, expressed his surprise and excitement after seeing the turnout.

“Peace, love and music. That’s what reggae-ska does for everyone,” he said.

After the show was over, fans and performers unanimously agreed that the event was a success.

Event promoter and musician Raymundo Vargas said, “The show went really well. All the bands played great, we had a great turnout and that ensures that we can do more of these shows in the future and that we can bring ska and reggae music back to the Bakersfield scene.”