On their breakout LP, The Specials united rude boys, punks, and New Wavers with a biting brand of Jamaican-infused punk rock. While the laidback “A Message to You Rudy” revives classic Kingston rocksteady, “Nite Klub” and “Little Bitch” crackle with vicious momentum. The wacky fun of “Do the Dog” and “Monkey Man” certifies the album as a killer party platter, but cuts like “Concrete Jungle” ring with social purpose, giving the collection added weight. In an era defined by so many brilliant, timeless artistic statements, The Specials was, indeed, special.