Skill… Mike Skill
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
The legendary guitarist, bassist, songwriter and vocalist Mike Skill had plenty of time for home recording while his band, The Romantics, were unable to tour during the pandemic, so he channeled his formative years as an up and coming Detroit musician for this rowdy debut solo album.
“Not My Business” starts the listen with thumping drums and buzzing guitar as Skill’s smooth yet rugged vocals guide the power-pop and garage rock opener, and “Dark Side Of Your Love” follows with strategic keys amid the soulful backing vocals as Skill gets nostalgic with the retro-rocker.
Further along, Wayne Kramer makes an appearance on the firm “‘67 Riot”, where searing guitars and a thick rhythm section make for an energetic album highlight, while “We Got Your Rock’n’Roll” brings plenty of melodies and sing-alongs to the crisp, upbeat landscape. “Soul So Alone” then moves at a calmer pace, where Skill’s gritty pipes are met with pretty backing vocals alongside the flowing introspection.
You knew it was coming, and “What I Like About You” finds itself near the end, and it’s as infectious here as it was in 1980, with incredible production to illuminate the strong drumming, soaring backing vocals and bright guitars, and “One More Time” exits the listen on a very memorable version of modern indie-rock that showcases Skill’s many talents and veteran vision.
In addition to Kramer, Skill also takes help from Brad Elvis (The Romantics), Kevin Rankin (A Flock Of Seagulls), Ricky Rat, Chloe F. Orwell and Patrick Harwood, and it results in some of the best work he has done in his four decade career, which is no easy feat, of course.
Travels well with: Jesse Malin- Outsiders; Fastball- Step Into Light