The place erupted as soon as they began playing Gangsters — with people in the moshpit dancing like demented teenagers, throwing beer all over the place, and even stripping to show off their bare chests.

Before the band came on stage we were treated to projected images of Royalty and politicians — getting booed by the sell-out crowd. Dressed smartly in dark suits, The Specials gave an energetic and enthusiastic performance, playing dozens of ska classics.

The crowd went wild when they played Monkey Man, Do The Dog, Message To You, Rudy — dedicated to the late Colonel Gaddafi — Concrete Jungle, Enjoy Yourself, and Too Much, Too Young.

Throughout the evening a brass and string section kept appearing to give the show a new dimension and there was even three glitter balls working their magic.

Terry Hall was in fine voice and sounded just as good as ever, especially in the haunting Ghost Town.

But it was Neville Staple as MC, Horace Panter as bass guitarist, Lynval Golding as guitarist, Roddy Radiation on lead guitar and drummer John Bradbury who whipped the crowd into a frenzy.

Long live The Specials.