The Streets - Going Through Hell

‘Going Through Hell’ is the first single from The Streets’ fifth, and almost certainly final album ‘Computers And Blues’. Whilst the styles of Skinner’s albums have varied over the last decade, each has a unique sound: his four previous endeavours all standing up as cohesive, rounded efforts, encapsulating a mood of their own. As such, one can’t help but wonder to what extent ‘Going Through Hell’ gives listeners a sneak peak of what the new album will offer.

Well, Skinner’s lyrics are as reliably sharp and witty as on some of his finer efforts, and the sound of the simple electric guitar backing contrasts very sharply with the rough and ready beats found in, for example, any track on ‘Original Pirate Material’. The verses are slick and enjoyable, and The Streets is clearly a project that is not afraid to stray into unfamiliar territory - ‘Going Through Hell’ is certainly an unexpected tune.

However, the chorus, provided by Rob Harvey (The Music), will divide opinion. Whilst Harvey’s influence on the track itself is no bad thing, a rockier edge lending a new side to Skinner’s work, the transition from Skinner’s stylised, accented rapping to Harvey’s piercing, nasal caterwauling is a traumatic one: ‘If ya goin’ through HEAAEAEALLLLLL… KIP GOWIN’ is the recommendation offered. Some listeners may appreciate the change of tone, but many may feel like rather than keep going, they’d rather just switch it off when the chorus rolls around.