This Are Two Tone

If you want a solid overview of the 1980s ska revival, there’s no better place to start than this label compilation from the record company that have the movement its nickname. 2 Tone was (for a time anyway) the home of the Specials, Madness, the Bodysnatchers, and the Beat (a.k.a. the English Beat), all of whom are represented here — though the Specials contribute disproportionately. It’s the Beat who steal the show, though, with a spritely rendition of Smoky Robinson’s “Tears of a Clown” and their own joyful “Rankin’ Full Stop.” The Swingin’ Cats were never heard from again.