Metal

Skindred - Concorde 2 - 30.05.08

Having seen Skindred twice before, I knew what to expect from the innovative Welsh reggae/metal hybrid, and I wasn’t dissapointed.

To say that Benj from Skindred stands out in the metal band scene - dominated by white faces, epic beards and hair grown for headbanging - would be an understatement. For a start, he’s black and has dreads.

As nu-metal is very dead, and post-hardcore bands just fail to interest me anymore, Skindred is a breath of fresh air. Their music is very unique, and the band really know how to get the crowd jumping. With most metal gigs, I judge my enjoyment by counting the number of bruises I get from the moshpit. On the basis of that, I’d say May’s gig was excellent. Others seemed to agree - the C2 was packed with black t-shirted metallers, and was as busy as I’ve ever seen it for a metal gig.

To those who prefer heavier guitar-based music, you have to check them out. See www.mypsace.com/skindred for some sample tracks, and www.brightonsound.com for upcoming gig listings - they usually play at least once a year at the C2.

© 2008 Brighton Sound.