antiMusic.com: Skindred - Roots Rock Riot Review

Skindred - Roots Rock Riot Review
by J. Simpson

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Skindred is a band trying desperately to put their stamp on the metal/hard rock scene and give the mainstream something different to listen too. The group hailing from South Wales has came up with their innovative sound by combining two music genres, a hardcore reggae singer with equally hardcore punk metal musicians. In October of 2007 the group has released their 2nd disc titled Roots Rock Riot under indie label Bieler Bros./Atlantic.

Picking right up where their debut album left off Skindred has definitely found their own sound. It's an aggressive music with lead singer Benji Webb going from clean vocals to sounding like a very angry Jamaican in mid verse. Displaying thundering strong beats and assertive dynamic guitars the two musical styles blend rhythmically together throughout this 12 track collection showcasing a punk/metal sound with a reggae feel.

Something I noticed having heard Skindreds first album Babylon many times, it seems these two albums sound reversed. Babylon sounds like it should be the sophomore album as its more polished or produced and not as raw sounding as Roots Rock Riot. In the end if you were a fan of Skindred's first disc get this album you'll like it. If you're not familiar with Skindred but like any type of hardcore rock or metal give these guys a try you may be pleasantly surprised. I know I'm a fan.

CD Info and Links

Skindred - Roots Rock Riot
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