The Specials have always had a knack for timing.
The band's number one single 'Ghost Town' famously topped the charts during turbulent rioting across England, eerily tapping into the atmosphere on the streets.
New album 'Encore' matches this feat. Everything about the record feels immaculate, from those skanking rhythms to the state-of-the-nation word play.
The group tackle right wing politics, the rise of nationalist feeling, racism, sexism, and more, with 'Encore' retaining its righteous power to the last.
Clash caught The Specials live at the 100 Club on the day of its release – the weather outside was cold and miserable, but the band turned that historic basement venue upside down with an incredible performance.
Album standout 'Embarrassed By You' focusses on the feelings of the Windrush generation towards young tearaways, and fears the work they have done could be torn apart by violence.
A warning towards "nasty little brutes" it's now received the video treatment, a deft lyric clip that mades explicit the meaning of the track.
As ever, it's brilliantly pieced together, with The Specials using cut and paste techniques that recall their punk roots.
Tune in now.
'Encore' is out now.
Join us on Vero, as we get under the skin of global cultural happenings. Follow Clash Magazine as we skip merrily between clubs, concerts, interviews and photo shoots. Get backstage sneak peeks and a true view into our world as the fun and games unfold.
