One of the first CD singles I owned was by Skunk Anansie, I had won it along with a Morcheeba single in a raffle, before we had a CD player at home. As a result I’ve always been familiar with the band. Especially since they reformed in 2008, often seeing them on gig listings and noting they were usually sold out and I’d never seen them live.
That changed last night, when they kicked off with 2019’s This Means War, with Ace’s guitar riff echoing throughout the Corn Exchange, soon followed by Cass and Mark Richardson’s powerful rhythm section punching through the room. With the sound completed by Skin’s iconic impactful voice and stage presence, moving around the stage in a stacked shoes and a long black coat.
We would be treated to amazing renditions from their back catalogue of from fiery I Can Dream to the anthem Weak, which had the crowd singing the chorus back to Skin with every ounce of passion possible. They would be rewarded with four songs off the forthcoming new album too.
Not to be constrained by exploring every inch of the stage, Skin would make her way into the middle of the crowd, whilst singing, with crowd members either scrambling to take photos or simply just take in the moment. Then she would rise up on to the crowd to be carried back to the stage all without missing a note.
I completely get why Skunk Anansie can still sell out big venues, like the Corn Exchange on a regular basis and why their fans are so devoted. Get your tickets quick next time they are in town near you.