"A Special Life is the source of its unusual glow, but it is, at the same time, a testament the man's well-honed patience: five years since his last studio outing was worth waiting for another estimable entry in his lengthy discography".
"Mayall's singing, his instrumental work on guitar, harmonica, piano, and organ, and his stunningly tight and proficient band came together to produce an outstanding contemporary blue recording that is a high point in his remarkable career".