by Steve HueyThe New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble debuts with a strong collection of originals and jazz classics by the likes of Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk, and Eddie Harris. Longtime veterans of the ska scene, the Ensemble blends the rhythmic danceability of ska with the improvisation and swing of jazz quite effectively. The results will, of course, infuriate jazz purists, but most ska fans will find the record an exuberant, forward-looking gem.