Skunk Anansie — Smashes And Trashes

Releasedate: 30-10-2009; Label: Edel Records
By: Nina Mende

Skunk Anansie formed in March 1994, disbanded in 2001 and reformed in 2009. The name ‘Skunk Anansie’ is taken after the West African folk tales of Anansi the spider-man, with “Skunk” added to “make the name nastier.” They are often grouped as part of a Britrock movement, running alongside Britpop. The band in 2004, were named as one of the most-successful UK chart acts between 1952-2003 by Guinness Book of British Hit Singles & Albums, with a total of 141 weeks on both the singles and album charts ranking them at #491. When the book first published this annual top 500 list in 2000, it only involved weeks spent on the singles chart until 2004’s 17th edition, meaning the band’s highest ranking has not been notified in any of the past editions. Their longest running release is 1996’s Stoosh album with 55 weeks and a peak of #9. After a ten year break they are now back with their fourth studio album “Smashes And Trashes” which is a best of album with some new songs.

Skunk Anansie is a highly recognized band with many fans who all were wishing for Skunk Anansie getting back together. Now they finally have and released a new album. “Smashes And Trashes” is a nice reflection on their career. The new album also includes three brand new tracks: “Because of You”, “Tear the Place Up” and “Squander”. Rocking and edgy does the music come out of your speaker boxes. The strong powerful voice of Skin is kicking asses and carries deep emotions. Classics like “Secretly”, “Hedonism”, “Weak” and “Selling Jesus” com e rocking when listening to this album. The album is full of strong emotions in all directions coming straight from the heart and soul. Most songs are known classics even by people who don’t know Skunk Anansie. “Charlie Big Potato” has some electro samples in the intro before it rocks off like a soundtrack, a soundtrack to Skunk Anansie’s life and career. Skin knows exactly how to place her voice and fill it with emotions to the fullest extent. “Smashes And Trashes” is a wonderful album that definitely gives you goose bumps or at least pinches your heart. Everybody has experienced something in their life that he can relate to one or the other song on this collection. You can rock out to this album, trying to get over broken hearts and hurt feelings or just be in love. “Smashes And Trashes” is a wonderful collection and I hope Skunk Anansie won’t disappear for another ten years now but keep on doing music and touring.

Links:
Skunk Anansie MySpace
Skunk Anansie Official