by Adrian Sendejas
Contributing Writer
In the madness of the work world, we all strive for that time in which we can relax and unwind before getting back to the hustle and bustle of the job. This is the special time where the boss has no power over you: lunchtime.
As you stare at the menu, wondering what looks appetizing, there is a tendency to look toward the day's special. The Specials serve up something appetizing with Today's Special.
Several tracks from the album are remakes, giving them a taste of reggae with a pinch of ska. The lead track is a remake of Paul Desmond's jazz-oriented composition "Take Five." The Specials slow it down and prepare the listener for a 12-course meal that every Epicurean of music should enjoy.
The Specials also serve up two tracks that are remakes of the great chef of reggae, Bob Marley. These tracks are "Hypocrite" and "Simmer Down," both of which are done as well as could be next to Marley's work.
Though reggae and ska sounds can be found throughout the meal, there are a few occasions where hip-hop is added to enhance the taste of the track. The fourth track on the album, "Goodbye Girl," contains all three spices of reggae, ska and hip-hop, which creates a sound that can be compared to the short-famed music of Us3.
The sound of The Specials is a welcome change from the regular consumption of music we usually experience, simply because it provides a new taste that few know or have even heard of.
Of course, like any meal that is different and experiments with several types of spices, the taste is not for everyone. All that is required to enjoy what The Specials offer is an appetite for music and the will to try something out of the ordinary.