Skindred is something of an alternative music powerhouse, and Benji Webbe is one of the game’s most enduring personalities. Back in the 90s, when Benji was touring with bands as diverse as Snot and the Manic Street Preachers with Dub War (more on that shortly…), it felt like there was a genuine edge to all the music that was being put out from everyone, whether that was Nine Inch Nails or Oasis. Dub War were about as edgy and diverse as they came, though they never quite got the recognition that they deserved. Building on the legacy of funk bands like Fishbone, and fellow alt-reggae masters Bad Brains, Dub War were a powerful clash of reggae, punk and metal during a period when the highly codified and tribal scene of the 80s was starting to break down into interesting genre clashes.
Unfortunately, as is all too often the case, the record company and personal differences got in the way of a brilliant band. In 1999, Dub War ceased to be. The hard loss of a cult band was softened by Benji forming Skindred, and three years later came the defiant ragga-metal debut, Babylon. Ever since, the band has put out consistently diverse records, from the pulsing nu-metal of Shark Bites And Dog Fights to the dubstep-influenced Union Black. Earlier this year, Kill The Power was unleashed, and this new record again showcases Skindred’s love for blending electronic music and punk with strong reggae influences.
Following that album’s release, we talked to the ever-chatty Benji about the albums that influence his own musical output, and allow him to share a few stories. "There’s no timeline to these, bro," he says. "I’m just gonna waffle on…"
Kill The Power is out now via Cooking Vinyl. Skindred are playing The Craufurd Arms in Milton Keynes on June 6 before touring festivals this summer; head to their website for full details. Click on his image below to begin scrolling through Benji’s choices
