BAD MANNERS - SKA 'N' B - Magnet Records 12" Vinyl LP Album

- The Explosive 1980 Debut That Launched Bad Manners into Ska Stardom

Front cover of Bad Manners' 1980 album 'Ska 'n' B' featuring a bold black-and-white cartoon illustration of a bald, muscular man with a wide grin and tongue out, holding a microphone on a stand. He wears suspenders, black briefs, and boots. The band's name 'BAD MANNERS' arches in stylized block letters above him. The border on the left features a vertical yellow-and-black hazard stripe pattern. The corners of the cover display the title 'SKA'N'B' in small black type

"BAD MANNERS - SKA 'N' B," released as a 12" Vinyl LP on Magnet Records, showcases the energetic fusion of ska and pop. The album, born from the 1980s British ska revival, encapsulates the band's irreverent spirit. Led by Buster Bloodvessel, Bad Manners infused infectious rhythms and humorous lyrics, making it a standout in the ska genre. The LP's lively tunes and charismatic performances marked a memorable chapter in British music history.

SKA and B - Album Description:

In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of ska music, one band stands out as a true icon of the genre - Bad Manners. With their charismatic frontman Buster Bloodvessel leading the way, they burst onto the scene in 1980 with their debut album, "Ska 'n' B". This article delves deep into the history, making, and impact of this classic record, offering insights into the band's lineup, production, and the distinctive sound that defined an era.

The Birth of Ska 'n' B

Released in 1980 on Magnet Records, "Ska 'n' B" was Bad Manners' first full-length studio album. The band, hailing from London, was formed in 1976 and quickly became known for their energetic live performances and their unique blend of ska, pop, and punk influences. While ska had been around for decades, Bad Manners injected it with a fresh and distinctive sound that would help redefine the genre in the early '80s.

Production and Recording

The album was produced by Roger Lomas, known for his work with various ska and reggae acts. Lomas' involvement brought a level of authenticity and expertise to "Ska 'n' B". Kim Holmes served as the sound/recording engineer, ensuring that the album captured the band's lively and dynamic live sound.

Recording took place at two prominent studios: Horizon Studios in Coventry and PYE Studios in London. These choices were significant as Coventry had long been associated with the 2 Tone ska movement, while London offered access to top-notch recording facilities. This blend of locations added depth and character to the album's overall sound.

The Musicians Behind the Magic

"Ska 'n' B" wouldn't have been the masterpiece it is without the incredible talents of its band members:

1. Buster Bloodvessel - Vocals: Buster's charismatic and larger-than-life persona defined Bad Manners. His boisterous stage presence and powerful vocals were the driving force behind the band's success.

2. Louis Alphonso - Guitar: Louis's guitar work added an infectious groove to the band's ska sound, ensuring that every track had an irresistible rhythm.

3. David Farren - Bass: David's bass lines provided the backbone for the album's songs, delivering that unmistakable ska bounce.

4. Brian Tuitt - Drums: Brian's drumming was the heartbeat of Bad Manners, driving the songs forward with infectious energy.

5. Martin Stewart - Keyboards: Martin's keyboard skills added layers of melody and texture to the band's music, creating a rich sonic landscape.

6. Chris Kane - Saxophone: Chris's saxophone playing added the signature brass sound that is a hallmark of ska music.

7. Andrew Marson - Saxophone: Andrew's saxophone skills complemented Chris's, creating a powerful horn section that elevated the band's live performances.

8. Paul "Gus" Hyman - Trumpet: Gus's trumpet added a bright and lively sound to the mix, enhancing the band's ska and pop influences.

9. Winston Bazoomies - Harmonica: Winston's harmonica playing added a unique and bluesy touch to certain tracks, showcasing the band's musical versatility.

The Album's Legacy

"Ska 'n' B" was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1980. The album featured Bad Manners' signature hit, "Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu", which became an anthem for the ska revival movement. The infectious melodies, catchy lyrics, and danceable rhythms of tracks like "Lorraine" and "My Girl Lollipop" endeared Bad Manners to a wide audience.

This album marked the beginning of a successful career for Bad Manners, and they would go on to release more albums and continue touring, cementing their status as ska legends. "Ska 'n' B" remains a beloved classic in the world of ska music and serves as a testament to the band's enduring talent and influence.

Bad Manners: The British Ska Rebels Who Made Us Dance and Laugh

In the late 1970s, when punk was thrashing and new wave was flashing, a cheeky, energetic, and outrageously fun band stormed out of North London with a ska beat in their step and a tongue planted firmly in cheek. That band was Bad Manners—a larger-than-life outfit that became one of the most beloved acts of the UK's 2 Tone ska revival scene, though they never officially signed to the 2 Tone label.

Origins and Madness

Formed in 1976 by a group of friends at Woodberry Down Comprehensive School, Bad Manners was fronted by the inimitable Buster Bloodvessel (born Douglas Trendle), a bald, portly, and proudly eccentric showman with a mega personality and a taste for slapstick stage antics. Whether sticking out his tongue, jumping into fountains, or dancing like a madman in oversized suits, Buster turned every performance into a ska-fueled carnival.

The Sound of Party Ska

Musically, Bad Manners brought a joyous and raw energy to their blend of ska, reggae, and pop. Their breakthrough came with the album Loonee Tunes! in 1980, which cracked the UK charts and kicked off a string of hit singles including “Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu,” “Lip Up Fatty,” “Special Brew,” and a hyperactive cover of “Can Can.” Their brass-heavy sound, catchy melodies, and party lyrics captured the wild spirit of the ska scene but with a uniquely irreverent, almost cartoonish twist.

Explosive Live Energy

Throughout the early 1980s, Bad Manners became a staple of UK television music shows like Top of the Pops and drew massive crowds with their explosive live shows. They didn’t preach politics like The Specials or The Selecter, but their contribution to ska was just as vital: they made it joyful, accessible, and unforgettably fun.

Sticking Around Through the Years

Although ska’s mainstream popularity faded by the mid-’80s, Bad Manners soldiered on. They toured relentlessly, particularly in Europe and the US, developing a cult following that has remained loyal over decades. Buster even opened a ska-themed hotel in Margate—Fatty Towers—though it was short-lived.

Legacy of Laughter and Skanking

Now considered a national treasure of British pop culture, Bad Manners are living proof that music doesn’t have to be serious to make a serious impact. With Buster Bloodvessel still leading the charge into the 2020s, they continue to bring skanking, sweat, and laughter to new generations. Their motto might as well be: "Life’s too short—so stick out your tongue and dance!"

Album Production Information on: Bad Manners - Ska 'n' B

Collectors information / Album Description: 

Ska'n'B is the first album by Bad Manners from the year 1980.

Music Genre:

SKA Revival

Album Production Information:

The album: "Bad Manners - Ska 'n' B" was produced by: Roger Lomas / Rolo Records Productions

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Kim Holmes

This album was recorded at: Horizon Studios, Coventry and PYE Studios, London

Record Label & Catalognr:

Magnet Records MAGL 5033

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1980 Made in England
Band Members and Musicians on: Bad Manners - Ska 'n' B
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Buster Bloodvessel - Vocals
    Buster Bloodvessel's real name is Douglas Trendle. He adopted the flamboyant stage name as the frontman of Bad Manners, perfectly matching his larger-than-life persona, bald head, and wild antics on stage. The name “Buster Bloodvessel” was inspired by a character in the British comedy film Carry On Up the Khyber.
  • Louis Alphonso - Guitar
  • David Farren - Bass
  • Brian Tuitt - Drums
  • Martin Stewart - Keyboards
  • Chris Kane - Saxophone
  • Andrew Marson - Saxophone
  • Paul "Gus" Hyman - Trumpet
  • Winston Bazoomies - Harmonica
Complete Track Listing of: "Bad Manners - Ska 'n' B"

The Songs/tracks on "Bad Manners - Ska 'n' B" are

  1. Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu (Eddie Dean/Al Dredick) - 2:35
  2. Here Comes The Major - 2:54
  3. Fatty Fatty (Clancy Eccles/Leroy Sibbles) - 2:25
  4. King Ska/Fa - 4:22
  5. Monster Mash (Leonard Capizzi/Bobby Boris Pickett) - 3:01
  6. Caledonia - 2:58
  7. Magnificent 7 (Elmer Bernstein) - 2:31
  8. Wooly Bully (Domingo Samudio) - 3:09
  9. Lip Up Fatty - 2:48
  10. Special Brew - 3:37
  11. Inner London Violence - 3:56
  12. Scruffy, The Huffy Chuffy Tugboat - 1:39
Album Cover Photo Gallery

Front cover of Bad Manners' 1980 album 'Ska 'n' B' featuring a bold black-and-white cartoon illustration of a bald, muscular man with a wide grin and tongue out, holding a microphone on a stand. He wears suspenders, black briefs, and boots. The band's name 'BAD MANNERS' arches in stylized block letters above him. The border on the left features a vertical yellow-and-black hazard stripe pattern. The corners of the cover display the title 'SKA'N'B' in small black type.

Front cover of Bad Manners' 1980 debut album "Ska 'n' B".

The artwork is entirely in black and white, featuring a bold cartoon-style illustration of a bald, exaggeratedly muscular man standing confidently with his tongue out and a big grin on his face. He wears thick black boots, tight black briefs, and suspenders over a bare torso. His left hand rests on his hip while his right holds a large vintage-style microphone on a stand tilted diagonally across the image. The man’s caricatured appearance evokes a comic-book or mascot vibe, with exaggerated limbs and a round head with cartoon eyes.

Above him, the band’s name, BAD MANNERS, is displayed in large, stylized block letters with a 3D shading effect, arched across the top of the cover. In each corner of the sleeve is the title "SKA'N'B" in small, uppercase black font.

The left edge of the sleeve features a prominent vertical band with alternating yellow and black hazard stripes, adding a splash of color and visual energy to the otherwise monochrome design. The overall style of the cover reflects the band’s irreverent, high-energy ska identity and humorous stage persona.

Back cover of Bad Manners' 1980 album 'Ska 'n' B' featuring a collage of black-and-white photos of each band member in playful poses. The names appear handwritten beneath each image, with a track list on the right and production credits at the bottom. A vertical yellow-and-black hazard stripe runs along the right edge, mirroring the front cover design.

Back cover of Bad Manners' 1980 album "Ska 'n' B".

This black-and-white design features a playful collage of band member portraits arranged diagonally across the sleeve. Each member is shown in an individual rectangular frame, striking energetic and theatrical poses that reflect the band's humorous, irreverent image.

The top row includes Andrew "Marcus Absent" Marson holding a saxophone, Martin Stewart mid-jump in a suit, and Winston Bazoomies dramatically posed with a harmonica. Just below, Louis Alphonso plays a guitar in a wide stance, and Gus "Hot Lips" Herman is seen mid-air playing the trumpet with legs spread wide. Lower down, Brian Chew-it stands in a stiff pose with hands folded, and at the center, Fatty Buster Bloodvessel appears in a stark black-and-white cutout with arms raised and a deadpan stare. David Farren and Chris Kane round out the lineup at the bottom with bass and saxophone respectively, both in sharp suits and sunglasses.

The tracklist is printed on the right side in two columns labeled "Side One" and "Side Two", listing songs like Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu, Lip Up Fatty, and Inner London Violence. Below the tracklist, credits mention the album's production by Roger Lomas, engineering by Kim Holmes, and recording locations: Horizon Studios in Coventry and PYE Studios in London.

A vertical stripe of yellow-and-black hazard tape design runs down the right border, visually linking it to the front cover and reinforcing the bold, caution-to-the-wind aesthetic of the band.

Record label of Bad Manners' Ska 'n' B LP (MAGL 5033), white background with black print showing band logo, track listings for both sides, songwriting credits, publishing info, and Magnet Records details. Features cartoon character logo of a muscular man with microphone at the top. Manufactured in England, stereo, produced by Roger Lomas.

Record label of the original 1980 UK vinyl release "Ska 'n' B" by Bad Manners on Magnet Records (MAGL 5033).

The label has a clean white background with sharp black text. At the top center is the Bad Manners logo—featuring their iconic cartoon mascot, a bald, muscular man in suspenders holding a microphone stand, grinning and sticking out his tongue.

On the left side, the text reads: "© 1980 Original sound recording made by Magnet Records Ltd." followed by "STEREO". The catalogue number MAGL 5033 appears on both sides. The tracklist is split into two columns: Side One (MAGL 5033 A) and Side Two (MAGL 5033 B). Each song is listed with its full title, writer credits, publishing information, and running time.

Side One includes: Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu, Here Comes The Major, Fattie Fattie, King Ska-Fa, Monster Mash, and Caledonia (What Makes Your Big Head So Hard). Side Two lists: Magnificent Seven, Woolly Bully, Lip Up Fatty, Special Brew, Inner London Violence, and Scruffy Was A Huffy Chuffy Tug Boat.

The total durations for each side are printed at top right: "Side 1 T.T. 17.10 / Side 2 T.T. 16.21". It also states "Produced by Roger Lomas" and "Made in England" along the outer rim. Legal text surrounds the label edge, standard for records of the era.

Side B label of Bad Manners' Ska 'n' B LP on Magnet Records, featuring a bold design of alternating yellow and black horizontal stripes. The Magnet Records logo is printed at the top in black text, with the words 'SIDE B' appearing in small black font at the bottom right. No track information or artist details are shown on this label side.

Alternate Side B label design for Bad Manners' 1980 album "Ska 'n' B", released by Magnet Records.

This minimalist label stands out with its high-contrast pattern of wide horizontal stripes in yellow and black, evoking a hazard or warning sign motif consistent with the band's visual branding seen on the album's outer sleeve. The label contains no track listing, credits, or production details—only the essential identifiers.

At the top center is the Magnet Records logo in black, featuring the stylized "G" shape followed by the word "MAGNET" in uppercase letters. At the bottom right, the text "SIDE B" is printed in a small, unobtrusive black font. The label’s center hole is cleanly punched, and the vinyl’s surface grooves are clearly visible around the circumference.

This design was likely used for visual impact or as part of a limited pressing, offering a striking contrast to the more detailed and informative A-side label. It adds a unique touch for collectors and aligns with the band’s bold and playful image.