The Specials Bring Carnival To Coventry

The Specials returned to Coventry and turned the Ricoh Arena into one big carnival as 8,000 partied the night away to the sounds of SKA. An army of pork pie hats and two tone clothing bounced up and down to every tune belted out by The Specials in what has been described as 'one of the best gigs ever' by those who attended this historic homecoming by Coventry's most famous band.

Thirty years ago many in the audience would have been among those who would have been part of stage invasions or sporting a skin head haircut, but time had changed their appearance - the hair was now gone but not by choice! This time around the crowds were respectful and no invasions were needed, chants of 'rude boy' ecohed around the Jaguar Hall after each song as a carnival atmosphere filled the venue. Outside the rain poured down in Coventry and many inside may have been victims of the economic downturn but tonight everyone was able to forget their problems and indulge in teenage memories with The Specials taking centre stage.

The Specials delivered a memorable gig, proving Terry Hall and co had lost none of their magic even after decades apart. Lynval Golding told the adoring crowds, "It's good to be back home in Coventry", to which he received rapturous cheers. Coventry was glad their hero's had returned home - after all this was the city of two-tone, rich in cultural and musical history. Classic songs such as 'Blank Expression', 'Friday Night, Saturday Morning' and 'Doesn't Make It Alright' had everyone joining in - both dancing and singing in a carnival atmosphere. The Ripps provided apt support with a blend of SKA infused, socially aware music.

Check the videos from The Specials Coventry Ricoh gig below:

The Specials - Doesn't Make It Alright (Coventry Ricoh)

The Specials - Too Much Too Young / Skinhead Moonstomp (Coventry Ricoh)

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