Steel An' Skin

Steel An' Skin is an artist with a rich musical history. They have crafted an expansive repertoire of some of the best songs and albums any listener can experience. From old-school fan favorites to modern classics, their music spans across generations and has been enjoyed by fans all over the world. Their lively sound has delighted concertgoers in venues small and large, providing audiences with a truly unforgettable concert experience. Steel An' Skin has built their legacy as one of the greatest superstars in music history with heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and classic sounds that never go out of style.
Steel An' Skin: The Musical Biography of a Genre-Defying Band
Music is a powerful tool to bring people together across different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. In the 1970s, a group of musicians from London, with roots in the Caribbean and Africa, formed a band that embodied this spirit of diversity and experimentation. Their name was Steel An' Skin, and they fused elements of funk, jazz, reggae, and Afrobeat to create a unique sound that transcended genres. In this blog post, we'll explore the musical biography of Steel An' Skin, highlight some of their best songs and concerts, and offer a critical perspective on their legacy.
Steel An' Skin was formed in 1978 by a group of musicians who shared a love for African and Caribbean rhythms. The core members were Peter Blackman, the bandleader and percussionist, and Graeme Hamlin, the bassist and producer. They were joined by a rotating cast of musicians who played instruments like congas, steel drums, saxophones, and keyboards. The band's early performances were in community centers, youth clubs, and festivals, where they quickly gained a reputation for their energetic and improvisational approach.
One of Steel An' Skin's most notable concerts was at the ICA London in 1982, where they shared the stage with the legendary jazz trumpeter Don Cherry. The concert showcased the band's eclectic repertoire, which included traditional African songs, original compositions, and covers of jazz and funk classics. The audience was mesmerized by the band's infectious grooves, and the reviews were overwhelmingly positive.
Steel An' Skin released two albums, Reggae is Here Once Again in 1980 and Afro Punk Reggae Dub in 1982, both of which have become cult classics among music collectors and DJs. The albums showcase the band's versatility and creativity, as they blend different genres and cultures into a seamless and infectious sound. Some of the standout tracks include Afro Punk Reggae Dub, Afro-Centric, and Rain, Sun, and Love.
Despite their critical acclaim and live success, Steel An' Skin struggled to gain commercial traction, and the band disbanded in the mid-1980s. However, their influence can be heard in the music of countless contemporary artists, from Fela Kuti to Gorillaz. In a way, Steel An' Skin's legacy is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and to bring people together in a common groove.
In conclusion, Steel An' Skin was a pioneering band that defied musical categories and created a sound that was both unique and universal. Their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of music lovers everywhere, who continue to be inspired by their message of diversity and inclusivity. We hope this blog post has given you a taste of their music and history and that it has encouraged you to explore their albums and concerts further. Remember, music is the soundtrack of our lives, and Steel An' Skin has left an enduring mark on it.