Madness - How The West Was One: Hammersmith Odeon 23rd December 1980 (Coke Bottle Vinyl) (Record Store Day Black Friday 2026) 2LP

Experience the explosive energy of British ska legends Madness with How The West Was One: Hammersmith Odeon 23rd December 1980, a special live album released for Record Store Day Black Friday 2026.

Presented as a stunning double LP on Coke Bottle Vinyl, this release takes listeners back to December 23, 1980, when Madness performed at London's legendary Hammersmith Odeon.

At the time, Madness were rapidly becoming one of Britain's most exciting and successful bands.

Their irresistible combination of ska, 2 Tone, new wave, pop and unmistakable British humour made them one of the defining acts of the early 1980s.

Madness at the Height of the Ska Revival

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Madness played a major role in the British ska revival.

Alongside bands such as The Specials and The Selecter, they introduced a new generation to the infectious rhythms of Jamaican ska, combining them with punk energy and catchy British pop melodies.

Madness developed a completely distinctive sound, characterised by energetic rhythms, memorable melodies and a playful sense of humour.

Their performance at the Hammersmith Odeon on December 23, 1980, captures the band during an exciting period of their early career.

Featuring the unmistakable vocals of Suggs, infectious keyboard melodies, driving rhythms and lively brass arrangements, Madness created a live sound that was impossible to resist.

How The West Was One celebrates this remarkable period and captures the excitement of a band destined to become one of Britain's most beloved musical institutions.

A Historic Concert from 1980

The early years of Madness produced unforgettable classics including One Step Beyond, My Girl, Baggy Trousers, Embarrassment and Night Boat To Cairo.

These songs helped define the sound of the British ska revival and established Madness as one of the most recognisable bands of their generation.

Their unique combination of infectious dance rhythms, humour and melodic songwriting made them hugely popular both on record and on stage.

This historic live release offers a fascinating glimpse into the band's explosive early years.

Special Record Store Day Black Friday 2026 Edition

This special edition is pressed on two beautiful Coke Bottle Green vinyl records.

The attractive translucent green colour is inspired by the classic appearance of vintage glass soda bottles, creating a distinctive visual effect.

The striking album artwork combines historic photographs of the band with bold orange lettering, perfectly reflecting the energy and personality of Madness.

Released as part of Record Store Day Black Friday 2026, this edition is a wonderful addition to any ska, new wave or classic British pop collection.

An essential release for fans of Madness, 2 Tone, ska, new wave and classic British music!

Highlights

Special Record Store Day Black Friday 2026 release

Pressed on beautiful Coke Bottle Green Vinyl

Double album featuring 2 LPs

Attractive translucent green vinyl

Historic live recordings by Madness

Recorded on December 23, 1980

Venue: Hammersmith Odeon, London

Captures Madness during the British ska revival

Infectious blend of ska, 2 Tone, new wave and pop

Striking artwork featuring historic band photographs

A wonderful collector's edition for Madness fans

Specifications

Artist: Madness

Title: How The West Was One: Hammersmith Odeon 23rd December 1980

Format: 2LP

Number of Records: 2

Vinyl Colour: Coke Bottle Green

Edition: Record Store Day Black Friday 2026

Release Date: November 27, 2026

Recording Date: December 23, 1980

Recording Venue: Hammersmith Odeon, London

Genre: Ska / 2 Tone / New Wave / Pop

Album Type: Live Album