![]() ![]() Although Skinner followed the album with the immense A Grand Don’t Come for Free (2004), I still think his debut is his finest moment. I do think those who have not experienced Original Pirate Material should snap it up on vinyl. I think it is the relatability of the album that makes it so enduring. Original Pirate Material is full of confidence, but it is much humbler and more grounded than a lot of Hip-Hop records. A flash and braggadocio-laden album would not have played well. He could not well discuss the same sort of themes you’d hear in Hip-Hop: boasting about wealth and trying to be American. Skinner’s main drive was to incorporate the emerging and rising British Garage scene of the late-’90s, and make the album genuine. The lyrics and vibe of the album, mind, puts us on the London streets in cafes and settings that are distinctly British. One can hear the influence of American Hip-Hop and Skinner himself stated how groups like Wu-Tang Clan were big influences. Singles such as Has It Come to This? and Let’s Push Things Forward are classics that sound incredible nearly twenty years after the album’s release. Skinner’s incredible lyrics and lo-fi songs get in the head and stay in the heart. Hip-Hop, it was not a surprise that Original Pirate Material was a big success. The album was mostly recorded in a South London flat Skinner was renting at the time, and it was put together using a laptop and digital audio software. If you can get it on vinyl then do so, as it is truly wonderful. It is a wonderful immersive and accomplished album from Mike Skinner (The Streets). I have been a huge fan of The Streets since that album came out in 2002 – it must rank alongside the best debut albums ever released. I was keen to feature The Streets’ Original Pirate Material. ![]() IN THIS PHOTO: Mike Skinner (The Streets) in 2002/ PHOTO CREDIT: Harry Borden ![]()
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