"More Specials" is the second album by English ska band The Specials, released by 2 Tone Records in September 1980. Following the success of their debut album, band member Jerry Dammers took on a leadership role, steering the band's sound toward a mix of genres, particularly lounge music and easy listening influenced by Muzak. This direction caused disagreements among band members, each bringing their own influences, such as northern soul and rockabilly, leading to an eclectic sound.
The album features collaborations with members of the Go-Go's, including Belinda Carlisle, Charlotte Caffey, and Jane Wiedlin, as well as Rhoda Dakar from the Bodysnatchers and Lee Thompson from Madness. The lyrics remain politically charged, similar to their debut. Upon release, More Specials reached number 5 on the UK Albums Chart and had several singles in the top 10 of the UK Singles Chart, also peaking at number 98 on the Billboard 200. Despite alienating some fans, critics praised the album for its boldness, and it has since been recognized as influential in the development of the trip hop genre in the 1990s, with multiple re-releases over the years.
Formed in Coventry in 1977, The Specials were pioneers of 2 Tone music, blending ska and reggae with punk rock energy and politically charged lyrics. They founded 2 Tone Records, named for their multiracial lineup, and released their debut single "Gangsters" in 1979, which reached the UK Singles Chart top 10. Their debut album, The Specials (1979), and the Too Much Too Young EP, which hit number one in early 1980, solidified their success.
By mid-1980, after extensive touring, the band felt exhausted but faced pressure from Chrysalis Records to record a second album and tour internationally. Amid this stress, they released the single "Rat Race," written by guitarist Roddy Byers, critiquing privilege in education. The song was a hit, reaching number 5 in the UK charts. Meanwhile, drummer John Bradbury recorded a cover of "Sock It to 'em J.B." for the upcoming album, which, although not released as a single, appeared on More Specials.
For their second album, band leader Jerry Dammers sought to evolve their sound beyond ska, emphasizing experimentation. He was inspired by easy listening and Muzak, influenced by his experiences while touring in America. Dammers envisioned a shift in the band's musical direction, aiming to create a sound that moved away from ska clichés, which he felt were becoming stale. This ambition led to a more eclectic and innovative approach in More Specials, reflecting the diverse musical influences the band absorbed during their tours.
