The Specials – The Specials

Released: 1979

Label: 2 Tone

When I Bought: 2008

The Specials debut album, a mixture of covers and originals, is one of those records that has transcended music to become a part of the zeitgeist.

A revolt against racism and divisiveness, released as the country began its long journey into Thatcherism, it is very much a snapshot of the time. The group were part of a 2 Tone movement alongside Madness, The Selecter and The Beat that managed to marry West Indies vibes to inner city life in the UK.

There's something about the cover that is so striking. The group are the embodiment of 2 Tone in every sense and them staring menacingly up into the camera conveys the sense that they are looking up at the establishment, and are ready to fight.

Not that the album opening gives that impression. 'A Message To You Rudy' is a warm and laid-back tune. with soulful brass and a relaxed rhythm section inviting you to fall into the groove. The track, which probably has the best use of a harmonica in popular music since John Lennon on 'Love Me Do', is produced by Elvis Costello, who steers the group through their debut long player.

The relaxation is broken immediately on 'Do The Dog', which has huge drums and frantic vocals.

Therein lies the two tones of the album. You have laid back, nod-your-head-along tracks such as 'Doesn't Make It Alright', 'It's Up To You' and 'You're Wondering Now', alongside skanking classics 'Monkey Man', 'Nite Klub' and 'Little Bitch'.

Lyrically, the album takes in night clubs, bouncers, teen pregnancy, infidelity - all the kitchen sink drama you could wish for.

Other than 'A Message To You Rudy', the most famous song from the record is 'Too Much Too Young', but this is not the version that topped the charts. That was a live recording, which is much faster and more aggressive than the 6 minute version on the album. It's a shame, as the live take is better.

Also missing from the record is the brilliant debut single 'Gangsters', which would have been a welcome addition to the album.

Costello's production is sparse, and he's keen to ensure this is very much a group record. There's minimal overdubs, and the mix is almost like a live gig. Take 'Concrete Jungle' where the guitar solo sits back in the song, instead of being front and centre.

An iconic album, with its very existence proof that multiculturalism can work.

8/10

Playlist featuring a song from every record I own, updated when I listen:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ATuSOiHxmb8AfXQHtXcCt?si=06649e16755c48e9

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