Yes! What a fucking victory for music. Skindred reached No.1 with “You Got This”, an album that defines them over more than 2 decades. Groove, swagger, and pure energy. It’s colourful, loud, and full of attitude. Frontman Benji Webbe displays his charisma on every track.

Anyway. Let’s begin with a brief of the band from Newport, Cymru.  They’re known for combining metal, reggae, punk, and electronic influences, earning them the “ragga metal” moniker. They formed in the late 90s and have since built a reputation for high-energy music, blending heavy riffs, rhythmic groove, and socially conscious lyrics.

Their frontman, Benji Webbe, is the engine that drives them with his larger-than-life presence and versatile vocals. He shifts from singing, shouting, and dancehall-style toasting with consummate ease, which gives the band its distinctive edge.

“Babylon” was their breakthrough album, before they later gained mainstream success with “Kill the Power” and “Smile”. Outside of the studio, they’re known for their memorable live shows, where raw energy and crowd interaction collide.

That’s the introduction over; let’s return to the review.

The mood is set from the start with the opening title track, with its big, anthemic sound. The song conveys a message of resilience, driven by heavy riffs, explores real-life struggles, and offers encouragement.

The mix of toughness and positivity drives the record on, giving it a motivational vibe.

Catchy hooks and strong rhythms, ready for their live shows, featured heavily on ‘Can I Get A’  and ‘This is the Sound’. Their full mix signature sound, consisting of metal, reggae, and punk, is on full display, transitioning smoothly from heavy riff and dancehall grooves. It certainly makes you want to bounce along to the beat.

I have always loved the band’s raw attitude, and that stands out on ‘Born fe Dis’ and ‘Do It Like This’. They are cocksure and confident, reaffirming the band’s identity.

The album isn’t just frenetic; there are slow moments with the ska- and dub-inspired ‘Broke’ and ‘Glass’. The band still maintains its edge. The underlying grit is still present, so you know it’s Skindred.

Benji Webbe always bring the grit. His delivery features catchy melodies, fast toasting, and powerful shouting, keeping the listener on their toes. Benji isn’t just performing the tracks; he is taking control.

His presence alone gives the record its heartbeat. Songwriting may feel familiar, but his energy keeps everything urgent and lively.

As the album winds down, ‘Big ‘Em Up’, ‘My People’, and ‘Give Thanks’ bring unity and celebration into focus, highlighting the band’s connection and positive message. Tracks designed to be shouted out, with a crowd, and enjoyed together.

The only minor downside is the record’s repetitive nature. If you can even find fault with it.

Skindred know their sound and stick to what they do best, so some songs might feel like they’re initially blended together. However, that familiarity makes them appealing. You come for it, and they always deliver.

Ring Out:

“You Got This” displays Skindred at their best: energetic, blending genres, and raw emotion fused with passion. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, and doesn’t need to.

Benji Webbe makes the album an enjoyable listen alongside the band’s raw, infectious attitude. One to be enjoyed whether in a mosh pit, at a festival/concert, or at home with the volume on full.

Song recommendations: ‘Born fe Dis’, ‘Do It Like This’, ‘You Got This’

9/10