The Best of the Specials by Coventry Music Historian Pete Chambers

Blimey, it's been an interesting week Specials-wise. What with the rumours of a pending reunion, followed by the news that the seven of them have actually rehearsed together, could it get anymore hectic? In a word yes, cus' EMI in their infinite wisdom have stoked the black n white embers of Two Tone a little more and released the definitive 'Best of The Specials' set.

This is of course is not the first 'hits' compilation from Coventry's finest, but it is the first time a DVD has been included in the package. So cast away thy grainy videos from You Tube, and enjoy these skatastic promos, as they should be seen, especially the classic Ghost Town video.

Meanwhile back in CD land, and as you would expect the package begins circa 1979, and with the familiar screech of breaks and we are off with the very first Specials (and 2-Tone) hit Gangsters. All capably followed by hits likes Message To You Rudy, Too Much, Too Young and Rat Race and topped off with some well-chosen album tracks. The package concludes with The Special AKA performing Nelson Mandela and the like.

In total you get twenty unforgettable tracks, sixteen nice videos and the good news is that it's available from today. Buy it now; re-learn all the lyrics and be ready for the reunion tour in October!