This British act have achieved quite a feat in creating a record that seamlessly combines reggae, punk, rap, metal and able to pull it off in such a fashion that they make it almost entirely their own. All the focus groups in the world wouldn't have suggested such a mix of Bad Brains meets the Clash with Jamaican dance hall and drum & bass. This is probably just as well as anyone trying to manipulate such eclecticism would be spotted from 10 paces by today's discerning music fan. Skindred are the real deal and anyone following the careers of Benji and co. since the days of Dubwar will have long since known this.

In true Caribbean style this record could be considered somewhat of a party album, at the very least inspiring a friendly dancing atmosphere and yet also the potential for a mosh pit to break out. Indeed it's a record for all seasons and any occasion with its overriding positive feel. From the feel good vibes of tracks like 'Selector' to the sign-along and slightly dangerous choruses of 'Nobody' and 'Firing Line' there is something for everyone and just when you think you've heard it all they throw in a gem of a song, 'The Fear', based on the classic Clash song 'London Calling', arguably the purveyors of reggae punk rock. Rather than churning out the song in parrot fashion, the band take the rather novel approach of applying their own lyrics and message. Other bands attempting covers should take heed. Sure the album has its filler songs but what record doesn't these days. With Benji at the helm as charismatic ringmaster, the band have an enviable frontman who after having guested and worked with many top names may indeed reach those heights in his own right.

In summary, fans of (hed)p.e and Rage Against the Machine will be the most likely candidates to enjoy this record but the net should cast far and wide for a band who inject a much needed passion and uniqueness. Don't be fooled thinking it's just another crossover attempt.