Today's Specials cover

Today's Specials

The Specials · 1996

47 min · 12 tracks · new wave · ska

A vibrant fusion of ska rhythms and punk energy, echoing the socio-political spirit of the 90s.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo dance vibes socio-political lyrical engagement group sing-alongs in celebration
Context
Released in 1996, 'Today's Specials' marked The Specials' first studio album since their split in 1984. This album came during a period of reunion for the band, as they sought to reconnect with their roots while navigating a changing musical landscape.
If you like
new wave, ska

Today's Specials is an album by The Specials, released in 1996. A vibrant fusion of ska rhythms and punk energy, echoing the socio-political spirit of the 90s. The album showcased a revival of interest in ska music during the mid-90s, charting in the UK and receiving positive critical acclaim. It helped solidify The Specials' legacy as pioneers of the ska movement, influencing a new generation of artists. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Today's Specials sound like?

A vibrant fusion of ska rhythms and punk energy, echoing the socio-political spirit of the 90s. Rooted in new wave and ska.

What makes Today's Specials by The Specials notable?

The album showcased a revival of interest in ska music during the mid-90s, charting in the UK and receiving positive critical acclaim. It helped solidify The Specials' legacy as pioneers of the ska movement, influencing a new generation of artists. Released in 1996, 'Today's Specials' marked The Specials' first studio album since their split in 1984. This album came during a period of reunion for the band, as they sought to reconnect with their roots while navigating a changing musical landscape.

Who is Today's Specials for?

Today's Specials works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, socio-political lyrical engagement and group sing-alongs in celebration.

How many songs are on Today's Specials?

Today's Specials has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·47:47

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

  • 1 Take Five 3:56
  • 2 Pressure Drop Standout 4:18
  • 3 Hypocrite 3:25
  • 4 Goodbye Girl 3:57
  • 5 A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You 4:32
  • 6 Time Has Come 5:09
  • 7 Dirty Old Town Standout 3:33
  • 8 Somebody Got Murdered Standout 3:06
  • 9 Shanty Town 007 3:57
  • 10 Simmer Down 3:46
  • 11 Maga Dog 2:54
  • 12 Bad Boys 5:08

Release Date

January 1, 1996

Genre

new wave, ska

More albums in ska

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

47 min 47 sec