Mental Notes cover

Mental Notes

Bad Manners · 1985

51 min · 14 tracks · ska

Upbeat ska rhythms collide with playful lyrics, capturing the spirit of mid-80s British youth culture.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • upbeat rhythms for celebration
  • playful lyrics invite sing-alongs
  • dynamic flow with varied intensities
  • for lively gatherings
  • nostalgic vibes of youth culture

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer slow, introspective music
  • not for minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1985, 'Mental Notes' was Bad Manners' second studio album following their debut 'Loonee Tunes!' This album arrived as they were gaining traction in the UK ska revival scene, establishing their signature sound and energetic live performances.
Stylistic neighbors
Madness· The Specials· Toots and the Maytals

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 What the Papers Say 2:54
  • 2 Blue Summer 3:42
  • 3 Body Talk 3:41
  • 4 Tossin’ in My Sleep 3:51
  • 5 Tie Me Up 2:00
  • 6 Bang the Drum All Day 3:18
  • 7 Destination Unknown 3:15
  • 8 Mountain of Love 3:28
  • 9 Work 3:19
  • 10 Saturday Night 2:46
  • 11 Blue Summer (remix) 4:58
  • 12 Mr Jordan 3:09
  • 13 Blue Summer (dub) 5:28
  • 14 What the Papers Say (12″ remix) 5:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata