The Specials – Live in Philadelphia
The Specials, also known as The Special AKA, are an English 2 Tone and ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry. After some early changes, the first stable lineup of the group consisted of Terry Hall and Neville Staple on vocals, Lynval Golding and Roddy Radiation on guitars, Horace Panter on bass, Jerry Dammers on keyboards, John Bradbury on drums, and Dick Cuthell and Rico Rodriguez on horns. Their music combines a “danceable ska and rocksteady beat with punk’s energy and attitude”. Lyrically, they present a “more focused and informed political and social stance”.
Three of the original line-up, Terry Hall, Lynval Golding, and Horace Panter, so it was quite a show. SOng from the great new album, Encore, as well as classics from my youth such as Rudy and Ghosttown (see setlist below). Everything sounded great – and quite an impressive crowd for a Tuesday night in Philly. Lots of pogoing, and even more singing along.
Terry and Lynval did a great job at leading the band and getting the crowd pumping. And the enthusiasm from Horace was just contagious. Kenrick on the drums added some vocals too – always good to see a drummer included in the vocals. And Jake covered the lead guitar duties fantastically!
All in all – What a show!!
Setlist
Man at C&A
Rat Race
Do Nothing
Vote for Me
Friday Night, Saturday Morning
Embarrassed by You
Blank Expression
Doesn’t Make It Alright
The Lunatics Have Taken Over the Asylum
Blam Blam Fever
A Message to You, Rudy
Stereotype / Stereotype pt 2
10 Commandments
Nite Klub
Do the Dog
Concrete Jungle
Monkey Man
Gangsters
Too Much Too Young
Encore:
Eastern Standard Time
Ghost Town
You’re Wondering Now
If you get the chance check them out live – The Specials – Live in Philadelphia.