This weekend I also completed Horace Panters biography chronicaling his time in The Specials, Ska’d for life.
My brother and sister liked The Specials, it was always the big kids that liked them, I was certainly aware of them and as I have got older I have an appreciation for them if not a knowledge, I know the hits and a few key members, nothing more really.
The book was really insightful regarding the beginnings of the band and their progression from Coventry clubs, to supporting The Clash, to number ones and finally their demise.
Horace wrote it in such a way that it was not only entertaining but you knew it was from the pen of someone that lived it and not a ghost writer.
He presents facts from his own perspective obviously, but also dealt in a matter of fact way, he hints at the rock n roll lifestyle but its more about the story than anything else.
Really good background to the recording process as well and as has been the case of late, as a result of reading the book I ordered, received and played the debut, The Specials, the follow up, More Specials and the sound of a band fizzling out, In the studio. Difficult to believe that a band so utterly celebrated and influential only released 2 official albums. Crazy.
I ordered Bone in my flute by Holly Johnson, Alex James’ book and Ronnie Woods Autobiography this weekend and they are next.
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