The Specials | en

The Specials (also known as The Special AKA) is an English "2 Tone" ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry, England. Their music combines a danceable ska beat with punk's energy, underpinned by an informed political and social stance. The group was formed by songwriter/keyboardist Jerry Dammers, with Terry Hall (vocals), Lynval Golding (guitar, vocals) and a rhythm section featuring Horace Panter (bass) and John Bradbury (drums; born 16 February 1953, died 28 December 2015). The band wore mod-style 1960s period "rude boy" outfits (pork pie hats, mohair suits, and loafers). In 1980, their song "Too Much Too Young",...

The blessed year 2000, Kristof Janssens and Gert Herrijgers have put up an old drum kit, a shook-up bass-amp and a four-stringed guitar. They are goofing off and playing around with old surf riffs and rhythms. When their good friend Koen Van Loon passes by, the three decide to start a surf combo. The fact that Van Loon doesn’t play any instrument whatsoever doesn’t interfere with their decision. Come a year, Janssens has put up a "real" band with a name and a space to rehearse in. "The Moe Greene Specials" (film buffs know why) come together in the old...

John Player Specials are a soulful reggae/ska band originally from Wigan, but now based in Manchester UK. Formed in 2006, the band originally played small venues around Wigan and are now firm regulars in the Manchester underground ska scene, and have 2 CD releases available for purchase from http://jps.bigcartel.com Members: Jordan - Vocals/guitar Dizzy - Guitar Elliot - Bass Jimmy - Trombone/hair Johnnie - Trumpet Ol - Drums The band take their influences from the reggae ska underground, taking note of bands such as The King Blues, Catch-it Kebabs and Harijan, as well as general life/lyrical influences from political-orientated bands...