Album review: SKINNY KNOWLEDGE – Don’t Turn Out the Lights

Self-release [Release date 05.03.21]

Bournemouth based rockers, Skinny Knowledge deliver a frankly, awesome debut album that oozes attitude with great energy and a message to all those that are shallow or judgemental in our society – take note of the poignant underlying message about mental health, it is ok, not to be ok.

The influences can be heard throughout the album from the likes of Green Day, Foo Fighters and with a dash of the Wildhearts, however, that doesn’t take anything away from the impressive song writing delivering original, meaningful lyrics, with a message, the clever, catchy musicality and the energy that is exuded on every track.

Skinny Knowledge visionary and vocalist/guitarist Andy L Smooth is no shrinking violet when it comes to explaining why he HAD to record this new album. One word. Music… “I love music that truly makes you feel something. Music that’s REAL and inspires you and others to move mountains”, explains Smooth. “Songs that leave you with a mark, and truly change your life… that’s the benchmark. Artists with a message. Artists with something to say… this is ground zero for me as a creative. It’s what has got me through incredibly dark times, none more so than 2020.”

If you are looking for some new, versatile fast paced rock with a sense of familiarity, then I pretty much guarantee your spirits will be lifted after listening to this impressive 14 track debut – what an introduction to this band!

“Don’t Turn Out the Lights” builds track after track – each track is high energy, high quality with catchy, foot stomping delivery and impressive guitar and drum work throughout.

Skinny Knowledge have already released 2 impressive singles from the album, being “Imagination” and “Keep Me Out of It” – both of these tracks deliver and would certainly introduce you to the band but there are other tracks that speak more to me – some are heavier tracks, and some showcase the versality of the band as a whole (see “heavy metal interlude” for a taste). There’s a ballad “Wheel of Love” that is the longest track and showcases the vocals and harmonies – can imagine the audience lighting up the venue to this track. Compared to “Stand Alone” which could be the soundtrack for any break up, the lyrics would appeal to anyone who’s heart has been broken, “I wish I’d never even met you” and “I take back every I love you” – I’m sure most of us can relate to that angst.

My tracks of choice were “Alive” for both it’s lyrics “I’m losing, but I am only playing me” and the epic guitar solo – could this be the next single? It would certainly hold up to the test of time. Absolute favourite was “King of Nothing” with a heavy intro and bass line complimented by gnarly vocals that pull no punches.

This debut album will appeal to anyone who likes their rock music fast paced, with a ‘message’, but yet still retaining a sense of fun and enthusiasm – what a debut, I’ll be looking forward to the next release and hoping it lives up to the expectations that this release has set. *****

Review by Karen Clayton

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Power Plays w/c 9 December 2024

In this sequence we play ‘The Best of 2024′ GRTR! reviewer selections

Featured Albums w/c 9 December 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2024 (Singer Songwriter)