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.

Why this album works

The album solidified Bad Manners' presence in the UK music scene, charting on the UK Albums Chart and contributing to the resurgence of ska during the 1980s. Its infectious tracks helped define the band's playful and irreverent approach within a genre that was rapidly evolving.
Best for
upbeat rhythms for celebration playful lyrics invite sing-alongs dynamic flow with varied intensities
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.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 What the Papers Say Standout 2:54
  • 2 Blue Summer Standout 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 Standout 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