What makes Smile by Skindred notable?

'Smile' debuted at number 1 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart, showcasing Skindred's enduring popularity and influence in the heavy music scene. The album received positive reviews for its energetic sound and thematic focus on positivity, further reinforcing the band's reputation for high-octane performances and anthemic songwriting. Released on August 4, 2023, 'Smile' is Skindred's sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 2018 release 'Big Tings'. At this point in their career, the band has solidified their unique sound that blends metal with ragga influences, aiming to expand their reach within the genre.

Smile works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove energy, infectious rhythms for dancing and high-energy sing-along moments.

How many songs are on Smile?

Smile has 12 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Smile

Skindred · 2023

42 min · 12 tracks · heavy metal

A vibrant fusion of heavy metal and reggae rhythms, delivering relentless energy and uplifting melodies throughout.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Gimme That Boom — This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of heavy riffs and reggae beats, featuring a catchy chorus that encourages crowd participation.
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L.O.V.E. (Smile Please) — With its infectious groove and celebratory lyrics, this song captures the album's uplifting spirit while showcasing Skindred's knack for blending genres.
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Unstoppable — This anthem stands out with its empowering message and driving instrumentation, encouraging listeners to embrace resilience and strength.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a strong blend of metal and reggae, with effective pacing and energetic performances throughout.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast tempo, maintaining this intensity through the first half before introducing slower, more melodic elements in the latter tracks.
Several songs feature call-and-response vocal patterns, blending heavy metal screams with reggae-infused melodies, creating a dynamic interplay between genres.
The last three tracks shift towards more introspective themes and slower tempos, allowing for a contrast to the earlier relentless energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove energy
infectious rhythms for dancing
high-energy sing-along moments
feel-good anthems for celebration

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
dislike energetic, upbeat vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on August 4, 2023, 'Smile' is Skindred's sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 2018 release 'Big Tings'. At this point in their career, the band has solidified their unique sound that blends metal with ragga influences, aiming to expand their reach within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Reel Big Fish· P.O.D.· Hed PE