There are many complaints about fusions in the Metal scene. It seems sometimes that Metalheads forgot in some moment that Metal itself, as a son of Rock 'n' Roll, is a mix between many different musical genres. And the fusions with Ska, Reggae, Punk Rock, Hardcore Punk, Reggae, Dancehall, Jungle, Hip Hop and others are extremely old. Names as FAITH NO MORE, BAD BRAINS and LIVING COLOUR did it more than 30 years ago. So to spread rumors and talk non-sense is ignorance. And one name that works with fusions is SKINDRED, from Newport, Whales. And the reissue from their second album, "Roots Rock Riot", is here to show how things can be good in such a way.

The best label for their music is Alternative Metal, because their music is modern and abrasive, but working with different musical genres on it. The main feature is from Metal and Hardcore, but Ska, Reggae and Hip Hop influences are clear as well. And it's really very good, because their music is creative and rich, but always coherent and strong. And the unique energy that comes from their musical arrangements is really lovely.

The album was produced by Matt Squire, with the mixing of Rick "Soldier" Will and the mastering of Michael Fuller. Everything sounds in a way that can be understood easily, but with that abrasive tunes from modern Metal genres. And to give a temper to the songs, the trumpet is played by Ryan Muir, the trombone parts by Andrew Borstein, the violin is played by Emilia Mettenbrink, the viola by Chris Fischer, and the cello by Naomi Gray.

It's not a crime to say that things change during their songs from a moment to another, so the unexpected must be expected to understand what the quartet is up to. But be prepared to mighty blows as "Roots Rock Riot" (very good mix between Hip Hop and Metal influences, with very good vocals), "Trouble" and "Rat Race" (where the influences from Hardcore, Metalcore and Reggae and Hip Hop are clear, and what great work from the guitars on both songs), "State of Emergency" (an accessible song with good melodies that are really amazing), the abrasive Groove shown on "Destroy the Dancefloor" and "Killing Me", the incitation to rebellion shown on "Cause Ah Riot", and the electronic manic feeling of "Choices and Decisions". And as bonus tracks for this version, the fans will find "It's a Crime", "Struggle" and an acoustic version for "Destroy the Dancefloor" (that is nearer of Reggae and Ska).

Yes, this reissue of "Roots Rock Riot" is really a very good release, and serves to present to new generations what SKINDRED is up to.