MOG Editorial Review

Despite only releasing three albums during their initial run, the Specials were far and away the most important band of the UK ska revival. Combining the ska-reggae sensibility of the previous decade with England's new found punk sensibilities, the Specials created a potent, fresh sound that would influence every ska band that came after them. The band's self-titled debut in particular does a perfect job of capturing the band's short-but-influential life span, with tracks like "A Message to You Rudy" and "Nite Klub" capturing their punk-infused ska in laid-back and danceable fashion, respectively. If you're looking for the exact moment when ska's second wave officially hit its stride, you'll find it on this album.