The Specials are one of the defining bands of the late 70's/early 80's along with Jerry Dammers iconic label Two Tone Records. Originally formed in 1977, as The Coventry Automatics, The Specials combined Jamaican ska and Rocksteady, mixed with the energy of punk they launched a whole Ska Revival. They also helped likeminded bands such as Madness, The Beat, The Selecter to release their first singles. The Specials released 'Gangsters' as their first single in the summer of '79, quickly releasing the classic singles A Message To You Rudy, Do Nothing and Rat Race. They released their debut album 'Specials' in 1979, followed by 'More Specials' in 1980. During this time, the band has two UK Number One singles, a live version of 'Too Much Too Young' from 'The Special AKA Live EP' and the unforgettable 'Ghost Town' in the summer of 1981. Jerry Dammers continued as The Special AKA following the departure of band members in late 1981, releasing their third album 'In The Studio' which included the iconic single 'Nelson Mandela'. This 20 track compilation collects all their key singles and album tracks, made available on heavyweight 180g vinyl for the first time.
W**Y
Correction/Update to a Previous Review
This is an update/correction for a previously scathing review I left regarding this record. I previewed the record after returning from a very long trip and must've been more tired than I thought. I got confused when looking at the labels, which all show the manufacturer's label: "2-Tone", and thought I had been sent 2 records with all 4 sides being Side 2's. We don't need to go into whatever state I was in at that time. Let's just say I was wrong. I received a perfectly good record. It sounds great and is a great collection of music. With apologies to the seller, I revise my rating to 5 stars.
J**S
Greatest Compilation!!
If you love The Specials like I do this 180 gr version has the best songs. I think it sounds amazing!
J**R
Fantastic!!!
Always one of my favorite bands, but this is a bonus sized set of all the known catalog on vinyl. Thrilled to have found it!
J**O
Good album. Bad pressing.
It had a skip so I thought I could deal with it. But FIVE of the songs had a skip not even one a penny could fix. returned it. It’s a shame cause it’s a good album
M**N
The Keeper
There have been so many rip off and lousy collections of Specials greats that you are almostafraid to try again. But this one is the real deal, the definitive versions of the songs youwill never forget. The depth of Specials catalogue is amazing for the short time they functionedas a band. For example, few US listeners are familiar with "What I Like Most About You (Is YourGirlfriend)" but it is so solid and funny that you just can't forget it once you give it a listen.These songs will be part of cherished music forever - and you can dance to everyone of them. Could itbe better?
S**Y
Excellent value package of an outstanding band
The Specials (in all their guises) were an incredibly important and influential British ska band. Their own take on Ska classics, and the uplifting and largely political nature of their music was a bright light set against a very grim and grey England.Spanning their entire career, this wonderful package combines the band's singles and most popular tracks on one CD with a dvd of the promo videos for their singles and several live clips. It is an essential purchase for anyone interested in The Specials, Ska, or Two-Tone.It's music that will get you moving and put a smile on your face.
J**M
AWESOME & FUN!! GREAT QUALITY & SOUND! PARTY WAITING TO HAPPEN!
the specials are great and don't get enough credit. this CD rocks! just a party all around! great quality, great sound. might order another to have a back-up to be safe.
J**.
The specials
Super muy bien disco
C**X
Awful
I’ve received cd 1 cd played okay but 2nd cd is totally blank my cd player didn’t even recognise it at allI’m very disappointed in the cd as you buy things under trust of the seller being honestI feel like I have been conned by the seller of this cdBecause surely someone should check that it is in playing condition obviously no did before sending the cd out to meAbsolutely disappointed with the sale of this cd
M**E
Great pressing on 180 gram vinyl and excellent sound quality
Unlike some of the other recent reviews there was nothing wrong with the record; no jumping whatsoever. This is a double album pressed on 180 gram vinyl. The sound quality is excellent and the quality of the pressing is wonderful. The record arrived in perfect condition. It also has the single version of ‘Too Much Too Young’ on it which isn’t the case with the last Specials compilation I purchased. Really pleased with this record.
B**
Sounds brilliant!
Sound quality is surprisingly really good. Had all their records way back when and with my vinyl rediscovery over the last few years, this is one of my most played albums.
R**S
Amazing band, shocking quality LP
I love The Specials! Their music is amazing! However, I bought 2 of The Best Of The Specials Vinyls & they were unplayable. When I got them replaced it was exactly the same thing - damaged vinyl, completely unplayable. That makes 4 unusable records & I'm worn out! Getting a refund!
A**N
Do not buy
Product was rubbish. Didn't work. Skipped and jumped and unlistenable. I sent back and got a replacement and the exact same thing. Do not buy this product. Obviously none of them have been pressed properly. Don't waste your time and money. Such a shame as great album by a great band...
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