2. The Specials – Niteklubbing Monkeymen (bootleg album recorded live in Hamburg, 1980)
So many people have given credit to The Specials over the past decades. When I was a kid they represented the UK. The way people spoke, the way a band could play ska in their own, unique way, the image, the energy. This was and still is unthinkable in Germany. No way.
I am listing these records, because I think they tell us something that has incredible value and we must bring this along with us and communicate this to future generations. Big words but I really believe it matters! We have seen a rise of the far right all over Europe. It’s that hidden racism that’s so dangerous. A big part of the music I make is dedicated to fighting that.
Many musicians think that people are "stupid" and in order to sell to them, you have to mirror their world views. I think it’s a vicious cycle. So The Specials playing in 1980 in Hamburg, Germany, delivered a strong message. Â If there was a band to come out of the UK right now, making statements like that, they would have my full support.
This recording is also a very good reminder of how a great live band should sound.
Is the current music industry even able to produce bands that can play on that level…?
