THE STREETS Vinilo y CD

Review: Mike Skinner is surely deserving of National Treasure status by now, is he not? From mischievous young MC upstart to garage innovator and now the voice of the nation, his journey has been remarkable and as this album shows it isn't done yet. He said in the built-up to it that for the first time in his career, he has allowed himself to be more loose with his lyrics, to say enigmatic things, make odd references and use stranger metaphors that might not always make perfect sense but that feel right in the moment. That makes it a great listen, as well as all the usual catchy hooks and compelling beats.