If you've been paying attention to Omegaman over the past few years, you have seen him flexing his ska, rocksteady and reggae skills, often featuring incredible vocalists and guest musicians on his tracks. Omegaman recently produced a side project for the teen cancer awareness fundraiser The Specialized Project (UK) / SpecialOzd (AU), and the results are these two incredible cover tunes. Again, utilizing his ska background and some of Aussie's finest musicians and vocalists to reinterpret two classic tunes from the late 1970s.

The Specials big hit from 1979, “A Message To You Rudy”, has been tweaked with a swinging backbeat and the sweet sounds of Sydney vocalist Lucy Vella. Adding some serious ska credentials to the track is a killer brass arrangement by The Skastards and the whole band itself is a virtual Ska all-star ensemble. Always a crowd favorite, this version of Message To You does not disappoint, and will get even the jaded rudeboys shufflin.

The second track covered is a bit more obscure, the Aussie New Wave band Mental As Anything's hit tune “If You Leave Me (Can I Come Too?).” This cover version outdoes the original by featuring Patou of Melbourne Ska Orchestra, Allniters & Club Ska on vocals. The track itself is boosted up to a surf 'n' ska type of groove with skanking guitars and crisp drum breaks. The end result is a much more upbeat and optimistic tune than the original, Can I Come Too?

Just in time for Aussie summer, these tracks are perfect for surf camp, road trips, house parties and everything in between. Instrumentals are included as well, which really gives the listener a chance to absorb the incredible musicianship on both tracks. Retro-classic Ska style artwork by Peter Metro for Metro Co.