boombox-generation
I can see why the first album was so lauded, as Skinner's schtick - at the time - was fairly unique in its simplicity and embracing of a DIY sound. If you ignore Dizzee Rascal, that is. But unlike Dizzee, Mike seems to keep saying the same thing, in the same style. I'm probably too old to relate to the 'flawed-but-alright-really' young geezer that seems to be the main character here, but I did find it a bit wearing after a while. Just not really my thing, I guess. I get it, but I didn't particularly enjoy it.
2
jason-cobb
I love the oddball story behind this. Writing an urban concept album based around losing £1k [SPOILER] down the back of a telly, shows that we have moved on from the days of 70's prog.
This was so fresh when it was first released. There wasn't anything like it around at the time. It does sound a little dated now, but only with the song references, and not the style. C-Mone steals the show.
I rinsed this to death back in the day. I wouldn't have hesitated then in giving it five stars. I paused a little this morning. But yep - it still stacks up.
So ambitious, so cocky, so bloody young.
5