WORDS MATTY BEZ / IMAGES DESH KAPUR
Thursday, March 14th, 2024, marked a seismic event at Manchester Academy as Skindred, the Welsh powerhouse, descended upon the stage for a night of genre-bending rock. Joined by special guests P.O.D. and As Everything Unfolds, the venue buzzed with anticipation for an evening that promised to redefine the boundaries of musical exploration.
With a legacy spanning over two decades, Skindred has solidified their reputation as sonic pioneers, blending heavy metal, punk, reggae, and electronic elements into a potent concoction that defies classification. Led by the enigmatic frontman Benji Webbe, their setlist was a testament to their diverse influences and unrelenting energy. As fans streamed into the venue, their excitement was palpable, a tangible energy that seemed to course through the air like electricity. But it was the sight of the extensive queue snaking its way towards the merch stall that truly underscored the depth of Skindred’s connection with their audience.
From the moment Skindred burst onto the stage to the thunderous strains of ACDC’s “Thunderstruck” and the iconic “Imperial March” from Star Wars, it was clear that this was no ordinary rock concert.
As the set kicked into high gear with “Set Fazers,” the crowd erupted into a frenzy of movement and noise, setting the tone for the night ahead. But it was during “That’s My Jam” that the true magic unfolded, as the room was divided into sections, each belting out their own rendition of the chorus in a display of unity and camaraderie.
In a cheeky nod to rock nostalgia, lead singer Benji Webbe teased the audience with the opening lines of Oasis’ “Wonderwall” a quick “Fuck Dat” from Benji and seamlessly transitioning into the band’s heavier repertoire, much to the delight of the crowd.
Throughout the night, the venue pulsated with the rhythm of beach balls bouncing through the crowd during the infectious “L.O.V.E. (Smile Please).” It was a sight to behold as fans of all ages joined in the fun, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying performance.
Amidst the raucous cheers and thunderous applause, it was easy to see why Skindred has cultivated such a dedicated following over the years. Their music serves as a rallying cry for the disenfranchised and the downtrodden, a beacon of hope in an often tumultuous world. And as the band left the stage and the final notes of Carly Simon’s ‘nobody does it better’ faded into the night, it was hard to disagree with this statement. Nobody does do this blend of genres, better than Skindred.
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My life is a soundtrack, i track my life through music, photography is my passion, my escape, my expression. Without both i have pieces missing, thankfully i’m blessed and get to combine both.
Born in Manchester, lived in Australia for 22 years where i was heavily involved in the Australian Music Industry, firstly in bands (Singer) and then managing bands (all original), I moved back to the UK, Wales specifically 10 years ago
