The Streets are back! They played a very special show for Annie Mac - here's what happened...
It’s been a while since we heard Mike Skinner on the mic, but returning after a seven-year hiatus, it feels like The Streets haven’t been away.
As part of their triumphant comeback tour (“the waviest tour,” in Skinner’s words), they played a very special Maida Vale show for Radio 1’s Annie Mac, mixing new tracks with a much-loved old favourite.
Listen to The Streets’ live gig in full
The Streets in session for Annie Mac
The Streets perform live in session from Maida Vale for Annie Mac.
Skinner and co. performed to a tiny audience - a handful of friends and family - ahead of three nights at London's Brixton Academy. It was a night to remember, and proof that they were sorely missed.
Here’s what went down at The Streets' live gig...
They played the ultimate “megamix”
It’s seven years since The Streets’ last album (2011’s Computers and Blues), and a whole 16 years since their brilliant debut Original Pirate Material. But in 2018, we’re being blessed with new Skinner-stamped material. The Maida Vale gig opened with an all-killer, no-filler medley, showcasing three new songs: “Wave God”, “Open The Till” and “Boys Will Be Boys”.
Skinner called it a “megamix… as they might say in the 80’s,” and he was joined by the same MCs who’ve been touring the UK this April, including JayKee and Grim Sickers.
They hinted at a special surprise
If The Streets touring again wasn’t exciting enough, there might be something else in store. But Skinner isn’t spilling any beans. After their Maida Vale set, Annie noticed he might have hinted at something exciting being round the corner. “You did a little tease there… Maybe you’ll be announcing something next week?” she asked.
“Nah, we can’t talk about that,” Skinner replied, but you could tell he was biting his tongue. Watch this space and get ready for something big.
They revisited an old classic
After the medley of new material, The Streets decided to turn the clocks and perform one of their oldest - and finest - songs. “Blinded By The Lights”, taken from second album A Grand Don't Come For Free, stands tall as a perfect example of The Streets’ craft, Skinner’s vivid, storytelling lyrics mixing with scratchy, floor-filling beats.
It gave the Maida Vale set an incredible sendoff, Skinner closing with the words: “Seven years on lockdown, and they can’t hold me back.” That sounds like a statement of intent.
