THE SPECIALS. THURSDAY 9th MARCH – 7.30pm

A perfect moment in time captured on vinyl forever, such is the Specials’ eponymous debut album; it arrived in shops in the middle of October 1979 and soared into the U.K. Top Five. It was an utter revelation — except for anyone who had seen the band on-stage, for the album was at its core a studio recording of their live set, and at times even masquerades as a gig.

Fourteen songs’ strong, mostly originals, with a few covers of classics thrown in for good measure. That includes their fabulous take on Dandy Livingstone’s “A Message to You Rudy,” an equally stellar version of the Maytals’ “Monkey Man,” and the sizzling take on Prince Buster‘s “Too Hot.” If those were fabulous, their own compositions were magnificent. The Specials managed to distill all the anger, disenchantment, and bitterness of the day straight into their music. A true classic album.

PAUL WILLIAMS

Paul ‘Willo’ Williams is the author of the acclaimed ‘You’re Wondering Now- The Specials From Conception to Reunion.’ We are delighted that Paul, a close personal friend of the much missed Terry Hall, will be with us to talk about the band’s eponymous 2Tone debut album. Paul also fronts ska legends, The Skapones and is the founder of The Specialized Project CIC, which is a social enterprise that aims to help young people in difficult circumstances.

in aid of Tonic Music for Mental Health – a charity which Terry Hall was actively involved with.

No use of mobile phones permitted during this event. 

Ticket price includes £1 booking fee per ticket. (Please note that no refunds or credits are available for this event).