A decade after the release of their last album “Computers and Blues,” The Streets is back with a full-length album titled “The Darker The Shadow, The Brighter The Light.” Mike Skinner, the creative force behind The Streets, announced that the album would be released on 20th October. The album’s announcement comes with a first taste from the record, “Troubled Waters,” which you can now listen to online. Additionally, Skinner has planned a headline UK tour in support of the album, which will stop in Manchester on October 26th at O2 Victoria Warehouse.
Seven years of dedicated work went into the creation of both the film and the album. Skinner took on multiple roles, including director, actor, editor, sound mixer, and producer. The album is a product of Skinner’s decade-long experience on the DJ circuit, where he tested beats and basslines and studied people’s reactions in clubs and back rooms.
The album promises Skinner’s distinctive lyrical finesse and beats, with contributions from long-time collaborators Kevin Mark Trail and Robert Harvey, as well as a track featuring Teef. The songs on the album act as a soundtrack to the film and occasionally take on the role of narrator.
The first track released, “Troubled Waters,” showcases Skinner’s unique storytelling abilities. A minimalist half-step beat complements Skinner’s signature lyrical flair and raw portrayal of reality. The track evolves into stripped-back drum and bass as it reaches its final stages.
Alongside the album, Skinner has written, directed, and produced a noir murder mystery film set in London’s club scene. The film will initially be screened at Everyman Cinemas throughout the UK, with dates to be announced soon.
The Streets broke through in 2002 with the Mercury Prize-nominated ‘Original Pirate Material,’ an album that has had a lasting influence on UK music and culture. This success was followed by multiple BRIT Award nominations, an Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically And Lyrically, and a BRIT Award for Best British Male Solo Artist.
Since then, Skinner has collaborated with a roster of British music talent including Kano, Fred Again, Greentea Peng, and Giggs. Through his label Mike Skinner LTD, he’s worked with emerging British artists like FLOHIO, Ghetts, and Grim Sickers. His compelling onstage presence and quintessentially British wit make him a captivating live performer. With the announcement of The Streets’ comeback tour, tickets for the dates sold out in less than a minute, attesting to the lasting impact The Streets have on generations of musicians and fans.
Tickets go on sale on Friday 21 July 2023 at 9:00am
