4.3 - Having suffered through the ska/swing resurgence of the late-90s, I had a PTSD-like reaction when I saw this early ska album pop up. Bands like "Cherry Poppin Daddies" and "Reel Big Fish" did a serious disservice to the Specials' legacy. Or, perhaps the Specials did themselves a disservice in later albums? In any case, I love this debut album! It's a blend of ska and reggae, with punk sensibilities that keep the arrangements lean and loose. The songs' messages vary from political to complaining about nightlife. "Doesn't Make It Alright" rails against race-based violence, while "Monkey Man" ridicules nightclub bouncers.