What makes Forging Ahead by Bad Manners notable?

'Forging Ahead' is notable for its chart performance, reaching No. 23 on the UK Albums Chart. The album also contributed to the ska revival movement of the early '80s, influencing both contemporary bands and future artists within the genre. By the time 'Forging Ahead' was released in October 1982, Bad Manners had already established themselves as a prominent band in the UK ska scene, following their successful debut album 'Loonee Tunes!' in 1980. This album marked their third studio release, showcasing their growth as musicians while solidifying their place in the evolving ska genre during the early '80s.

Who is Forging Ahead for?

Forging Ahead works well if you're into carefree party atmosphere, dynamic progression with peaks and short, engaging tracks.

How many songs are on Forging Ahead?

Forging Ahead has 22 tracks, running approximately 78 minutes.

Released 44 years ago this October

Forging Ahead

Bad Manners · 1982

78 min · 22 tracks · ska

Energetic ska rhythms intertwine with playful lyrics and a vibrant horn section, creating a lively atmosphere of fun and mischief.

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Top tracks — play these first

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My Girl Lollipop (extended Lick mix) — This extended version revitalizes the classic pop hit with a ska twist, exemplifying Bad Manners' ability to blend genres while maintaining infectious energy.
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Samson and Delilah (Biblical version) — The reinterpretation of this biblical tale through upbeat rhythms showcases the band's unique lyrical approach and humor, making it a standout track on the album.
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Falling Out of Love — This track balances energetic instrumentation with relatable themes of heartache, reflecting the band's knack for merging catchy melodies with emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

Energetic ska rhythms and playful lyrics define this album, but its cohesion suffers from remix tracks at the end.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track, 'Salad Bar', and maintains a high energy level through the first half before introducing slower songs like 'Falling Out of Love'.
Several tracks feature playful call-and-response vocals between the lead singer and backing singers, enhancing the lively atmosphere.
The horn section is prominent throughout, often taking center stage during instrumental breaks and adding to the overall upbeat sound.
The last few tracks include remixes and alternate versions of earlier songs, which disrupts the flow established in the first two-thirds of the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

carefree party atmosphere
dynamic progression with peaks
short, engaging tracks
playful and vibrant energy
wave-like pacing

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Forging Ahead' was released in October 1982, Bad Manners had already established themselves as a prominent band in the UK ska scene, following their successful debut album 'Loonee Tunes!' in 1980. This album marked their third studio release, showcasing their growth as musicians while solidifying their place in the evolving ska genre during the early '80s.
Stylistic neighbors: Madness· The Specials· Toots and the Maytals