Album Info
| Artist: | The Specials |
| Album: | Ghost Town / Why? / Friday Night, Saturday Morning |
| Released: | UK, 4 Jun 2021 |
Tracklist:
| A | Ghost Town (Extended Version) | 6:02 |
| A†1 | Why? | 3:55 |
| A†2 | Friday Night, Saturday Morning | 3:32 |
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Description
The Specials - Ghost Town / Why? / Friday Night, Saturday Morning
The Specials, a band that emerged from the late 1970s British ska revival, are known for their socially conscious lyrics and innovative fusion of punk and reggae. Their 1981 release, "Ghost Town / Why? / Friday Night, Saturday Morning," is a seminal work that captures the socio-political climate of the time while showcasing the band's musical versatility.
"Ghost Town," the lead track, is arguably The Specials' most iconic song. Written by Jerry Dammers, the band's keyboardist and primary songwriter, "Ghost Town" was released in June 1981. The song's haunting melody and eerie production reflect the economic despair and urban decay prevalent in the UK during the early 1980s. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a once-thriving city now desolate and abandoned, with lines like "This town is coming like a ghost town" and "Government leaving the youth on the shelf." The song's release coincided with a period of social unrest, including riots in several British cities, which only amplified its impact. "Ghost Town" topped the UK Singles Chart for three weeks and remains a powerful anthem of disillusionment and protest.
The second track, "Why?," addresses the issue of racial violence, a topic that was particularly relevant in the context of the racial tensions in Britain at the time. Written by guitarist Lynval Golding, who himself was a victim of a racially motivated attack, "Why?" is a poignant and direct confrontation of the senseless hatred and violence faced by people of color. The song's lyrics, such as "Why did you try to hurt me?" and "Why do you do the things you do?" are both a personal lament and a broader social commentary. Musically, "Why?" maintains the band's signature ska sound, with its upbeat tempo and brass instrumentation, but the serious subject matter gives it a weight that resonates deeply.
The final track, "Friday Night, Saturday Morning," offers a more introspective and somewhat lighter perspective. Written by bassist Horace Panter, the song describes the routine of a typical weekend night out, capturing the mundane yet comforting rituals of social life. The lyrics, "Out of bed at eight AM / Out my head by half past ten," depict the cycle of work and leisure that defines the lives of many young people. The song's laid-back rhythm and catchy melody provide a contrast to the heavier themes of the other tracks, showcasing the band's ability to blend social commentary with everyday experiences.
The production of the EP is notable for its atmospheric quality, particularly on "Ghost Town." The use of reverb and echo creates a sense of space and desolation, enhancing the song's haunting effect. The brass section, a hallmark of The Specials' sound, is used to great effect across all three tracks, adding both energy and melancholy as needed.
"Ghost Town / Why? / Friday Night, Saturday Morning" is a testament to The Specials' ability to address serious social issues through their music while still maintaining a sense of musicality and accessibility. The EP captures a moment in time when the band's message was both urgent and necessary, and it remains relevant today as a reflection of the struggles and resilience of marginalized communities.
In conclusion, The Specials' "Ghost Town / Why? / Friday Night, Saturday Morning" is a powerful and enduring work that combines sharp social commentary with innovative musicality. Each track offers a different perspective on the human experience, from the despair of urban decay to the personal pain of racial violence and the simple pleasures of weekend escapism. This EP not only solidified The Specials' place in music history but also continues to resonate with listeners as a poignant reminder of the power of music to reflect and influence society.
