Stereo-Typical: A's, B's and Rarities
The Specials · 2000
193 min · 46 tracks · new wave · ska
A vibrant mix of ska rhythms and sharp social commentary, showcasing The Specials' influence on British music culture.
Why this album works
This album is significant as it compiles both classic tracks and rare material, reinforcing The Specials' legacy in the music industry. It features 'Ghost Town', which has been critically acclaimed for its poignant reflection on urban decay and social issues in the UK, making it an anthem of sorts during its release.
- Best for
- dynamic peaks with vibrant energy for lively social gatherings sharp commentary with rhythmic pulse
- Context
- Released in 2000, 'Stereo-Typical: A's, B's and Rarities' reflects The Specials' evolution as a band since their initial formation in 1977. By this time, they had experienced significant lineup changes and a long hiatus, returning with a compilation that highlighted their enduring impact on the ska and new wave scenes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Bryan Adams· Muse· The Pretenders· Queen· PJ Harvey· John Cale· Paul McCartney
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Gangsters Standout 2:48
- 2 A Message to You Rudy 2:55
- 3 Nite Klub 3:09
- 4 Too Much Too Young 2:04
- 5 Guns of Navarone 2:19
- 6 Skinhead Symphony 6:37
- 7 Rat Race 3:10
- 8 Rude Boys Outa Jail 2:40
- 9 Stereotype 3:52
- 10 International Jet Set 4:15
- 11 Do Nothing 3:41
- 12 Maggie's Farm 3:33
- 13 Braggin' and Tryin' Not to Lie 3:24
- 14 Rude Boys Outa Jail (version) 4:08
- 15 Ghost Town Standout 3:42
- 16 Why? 2:56
- 17 Friday Night, Saturday Morning 3:33
- 18 Concrete Jungle (live) 3:09
- 19 Racquel 1:57
Disc 2
- 1 The Boiler 5:46
- 2 Theme From the Boiler 4:13
- 3 Jungle Music 4:00
- 4 Rasta Call You 3:38
- 5 Easter Island 4:11
- 6 War Crimes (The Crime Remains the Same) 4:02
- 7 Version 3:44
- 8 Racist Friend Standout 4:03
- 9 Bright Lights 3:47
- 10 Nelson Mandela 4:13
- 11 Break Down the Door 3:48
- 12 What I Like Most About You Is Your Girlfriend 4:05
- 13 Can't Get a Break 4:56
- 14 Nelson Mandela '88 (Special 70th Birthday remake) 4:46
- 15 Ghost Dub '91 4:19
- 16 Let Us Unite 4:28
Disc 3
- 1 Ghost Town (extended version) 6:02
- 2 Why? 3:56
- 3 War Crimes 6:10
- 4 Racist Friend (instrumental) 4:10
- 5 Bright Lights (instrumental) 4:41
- 6 Nelson Mandela 4:34
- 7 Break Down the Door 5:02
- 8 What I Like Most About You Is Your Girlfriend 5:24
- 9 Can't Get a Break 6:30
- 10 Nelson Mandela '88 (The Whole World Is Watching dance mix) 8:29
- 11 Ghost Dub '91 / Let Us Unite 6:36
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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