Return of the Ugly
Bad Manners · 1989
48 min · 14 tracks · ska
Energetic ska rhythms blend with playful melodies, creating a lively celebration of sound and culture.
Why this album works
'Return of the Ugly' is significant for its role in revitalizing the ska genre within the late '80s music scene, featuring tracks that received airplay and helped maintain the band's popularity. The album's upbeat nature and catchy hooks continued to influence subsequent ska bands and contributed to the genre's enduring legacy in British music.
- Best for
- lively celebration of sound playful and energetic vibes short, punchy listening sessions
- Context
- Released in 1989, 'Return of the Ugly' marked Bad Manners' fourth studio album, following their successful 'Loonee Tunes' from 1987. At this point, the band had established themselves as key figures in the UK ska revival scene, delivering a mix of original songs and ska-infused covers that showcased their distinctive style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Ringo Starr· Elton John· The Who· Queen· Eric Clapton· Paul McCartney· John Lennon
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Skaville UK Standout 2:38
- 2 Sally Brown Standout 3:02
- 3 Since You’ve Gone Away 3:39
- 4 Rosemary 2:26
- 5 Bonanza Ska 2:44
- 6 Return of the Ugly Standout 2:52
- 7 Hey Little Girl 3:41
- 8 Buffalo Ska 3:54
- 9 Memory Train 3:06
- 10 This Is Ska 3:45
- 11 Rocksteady Breakfast 4:15
- 12 Baby Elephant Walk 2:03
- 13 Skaville UK (12″ mix) 4:28
- 14 Sally Brown (12″ mix) 5:57
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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