Review and Images by Jonathan Taylor
Instagram: @jonathantaylorphotography
In celebration of their 25th anniversary in the music industry, Skunk Anansie released album ‘25@25’, which was a collection of live tracks celebrating two and a half decades of making music. The collection of recordings that make up the album is an extensive journey through the live musical archives of the bands performances. Fronted by Skin, Skunk Anansie are without question one of the most energetic bands whilst performing live, so the album is a fitting way to bench mark their musical career to date.
Manchester Academy somewhat predictably is a sell out and is packed full of fans who are relishing the opportunity of hearing a celebratory set packed full of the bands anthems and classics.
As the lights dim and the crowd erupts Skunk Anansie take to the stage. Not disappointing in her unique demeanour, Skin is draped in a robe made of strips of metallic silver fabric which covers her face and upper body. From within this drape, which is reflecting under the lights, the distinct and iconic vocal bellows out the haunting track ‘Charlie Big Potato’. This is followed by ‘Because of You’ showcasing the powerhouse and range of Skin’s vocal talent. Towards the end of ‘All In The Name Of Pity’, Skin launches herself into the sea of adoring fans, who with outstretched arms, glide her with sensitivity and purpose around the venue, until she is returned safely to the stage. After which she addresses the audience and thanks them for not pinching her arse! During the extensive 23 song set, there were some incredibly tender moments including a heartfelt rendition of ‘You’ll Follow Me Down’ which has the crowd singing along to every word. The latest release from the band ‘What you do For Love’ holds its own along such anthemic classics such was ‘Weak As I am’, ‘Because Of You’ and ‘I Believed In You’.
Skunk Anansie’s exhilarating energy never seemed to waver from start to finish throughout the evening. Skin is without question one of the most notable iconic front women from British music in recent decades. They may have been away from music for a notable absence, but as they embark on further British dates to celebrate their extensive career and service to music, it certainly is time to get on board to witness this beautifully energetic and infectious milestone of music.
