In a world where musical trends come and go, one genre stands out for its raw, unfiltered energy. Skinner's latest release, 'New Wave Vaudeville,' is a testament to the power of revival. This album brings back the spirit of New York's Downtown scene from the late 1970s, blending noise, free jazz, funk, and disco into an electrifying mix that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Experience the Rebirth of No Wave in All Its Chaotic Glory

The Birth of a Movement

The late 1970s saw the rise of a unique movement in New York's Downtown area. Artists sought to challenge the commercialization of New Wave by pushing boundaries with unconventional sounds. Noise, free jazz, funk, and disco collided in a cacophony that was both abrasive and oddly captivating. This era laid the groundwork for what would become known as No Wave—a genre that defied conventions and embraced chaos. Skinner’s debut album, ‘New Wave Vaudeville,’ pays homage to this rebellious spirit while introducing a pop sensibility that makes it accessible to a broader audience.The opening track, also titled ‘New Wave Vaudeville,’ sets the tone with a sample reminiscent of Prince's 'Batman' era. The lyrics, delivered in rapid-fire succession, encapsulate the essence of the album: "It's newer than new / And it’s your-er than you / It’s now-er than now / And it’s wower than wow." These lines not only capture the immediacy of the moment but also serve as a critique of the relentless pursuit of novelty in modern culture. The music is mesmerizing, but it’s the lyrical depth that truly sets this album apart.

A Mirror to Society

Skinner’s ability to distill societal observations into biting commentary shines through in tracks like ‘Geek Love.’ The line “Everybody here is just bored to death, Drowning in their own ordinariness” resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt lost in the monotony of everyday life. It’s a sentiment that many can relate to, especially those who spent their formative years navigating the social awkwardness of youth. Skinner doesn’t shy away from addressing uncomfortable truths; instead, he confronts them head-on with a caustic wit that leaves a lasting impression.‘Geek Love’ continues with the poignant observation, “Cause nobody here wants to be a freak / That’s the kinda shit that you just can’t teach.” This line speaks to the universal desire for acceptance and the fear of standing out. Skinner’s music serves as a mirror to society, reflecting both its flaws and its potential for growth. By embracing the quirks and peculiarities that make us human, his songs offer a sense of validation to listeners who might feel out of place in a world that values conformity.

The Live Experience

What truly sets ‘New Wave Vaudeville’ apart is its potential for live performances. Imagine a small venue filled with an eager crowd, ready to lose themselves in the chaotic energy of Skinner’s music. The seething, sweaty bodies moving in unison, giving everything they have to the rhythm. The live experience promises to be nothing short of exhilarating. Despite the chaotic soundtrack, the lyrics remain profound and precise, delivering messages of social awkwardness, bad jobs, vapid music scenes, and themes of love, loss, and redemption.One of the standout moments on the album comes with the line, “I never know what to do, And I never know what to say.” This sentiment strikes a chord with many, reminding us that it’s okay to embrace our imperfections. Skinner’s music encourages listeners to celebrate their uniqueness, especially if they identify as geeky or unconventional. The album’s message is clear: it’s perfectly alright to be different, and there’s strength in embracing who you are.

An Album Greater Than Great

In summary, ‘New Wave Vaudeville’ is more than just an album—it’s a statement. It combines the raw, unpolished energy of No Wave with a pop sensibility that makes it accessible yet powerful. The music is raucous, riotous, and ridiculous, but it’s also incredibly fun. Skinner’s ability to blend chaos with precision creates an experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you’re looking for an album that challenges norms and celebrates individuality, look no further than ‘New Wave Vaudeville.’ It’s briller than brill and funner than fun—what more could you ask for?