Skunk Anansie
The Painful Truth
FLG Records
Not many artists command the level of universal respect that Skunk Anansie hold within the music industry and with fans. Mention their name in conversation and you get nods of approval usually accompanied by oohs and ahhs, then compliments. Their writing has resonated with hearts and minds for several decades now. Why can be heard throughout new album ‘The Painful Truth’ where we find the Londoners once again way ahead of the curve. This is a subtlety progressive work that takes the band forward by using collectively gained experience and having had a stable line up for so long. You can sense the ease with which each member plays their part within a group of friends. It’s an eclectic set of songs too mixing rock with pop, punk and you even a little hint of ska and reggae thrown in too. The hooks are mighty and the rhythms infectiously catchy. And then there are the vocals. Skin it need not be said is a bit of a legend, and here we get her full repertoire. She has such a wonderfully natural tone and an ability to nuance lyrics so that you just melt listening to her. This is a record that shows Skunk Anansie as true masters of their art. It simply reinforces all the reasons why they are such a cherished part of the music scene.
Review by Gary Trueman