While fans of The Specials count down the days until the reunion tour kicks-off in Newcastle next Friday April 24th, the band members themselves are busy making last minute preparations before they head out on the road.
Roddy Byers took time out of getting ready for the tour to share his thoughts about the upcoming tour with me and to confirm that he will be singing lead on the band classic 'Concrete Jungle'. Below is a version of 'Concrete Jungle' recorded during band rehearsal sessions in early 2009. Roddy takes lead vocals as he did on the original recording and this recording provides a sneak peek of what to expect from the band live next week:
Roddy also shared that he is getting over a chest infection but that he is ready for the tour to start. When I asked him how he planned to spend the night before the opening show in Newcastle he said, "Day before is a rehearsal day- decent dinner, couple of beers and an early night if possible."
I'll be checking in with Roddy over the course of the UK tour to get his impressions and thoughts as the band mark their 30th anniversary. Check back for regular tour updates.
No disrespect to Roddy, who wrote one of the best songs in the Specials' repertoire, but having said that, I've always thought that Terry sings this song so much better! Terry's delivery is very haunting, where as, Roddy's delivery is a little too Rockabilly. Hope the tour comes to the U.S.!
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