Skindred at SMR Festival 2025: A Celebration of Life, Love, and Loudness

25 May 2025 rocknews

If there’s one band that knows how to turn a gig into a full-blown carnival of chaos, it’s Skindred. The Welsh reggae-metal pioneers stormed onto the SMR Festival stage at Lamex Stadium, Stevenage, on May 23, 2025, delivering a performance that was equal parts electrifying, theatrical, and downright euphoric. From the moment the first chords rang out, it was clear—this wasn’t just a concert. It was a celebration of life.

Thunderstruck, and the Arrival of a Rock Icon

The night kicked off with a cinematic bang. As the crowd buzzed with anticipation, the unmistakable riff of AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” sent shockwaves through the venue, followed by the ominous Imperial March from Star Wars. Then, like a rock ‘n’ roll messiah, Benji Webbe emerged—draped in a full-length metallic silver coat, sunglasses adorned with spikes, and an energy that could power a small city. The stage, bathed in blue and red lights, swirled through the smoky atmosphere, setting the tone for what was about to unfold at Lamex Stadium.

The Setlist: A Rollercoaster of Sound and Emotion

Skindred wasted no time launching into “Set Fazers,” igniting the crowd into a frenzy. By the time “Rat Race” rolled around, Webbe was orchestrating the audience like a seasoned ringmaster, teasing them for being “flat” before blowing a raspberry to their laughter. The impromptu Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” singalong was a moment of pure joy, proving Skindred’s ability to connect with fans is second to none.

The night was peppered with raw emotion and unfiltered fun. Webbe led a birthday singalong, dedicated “Nobody” to everyone in attendance, and paused the show when an audience member was injured—reminding everyone that Skindred gigs are more than just music; they’re a family gathering.

The Newport Helicopter: A Tradition Like No Other

No Skindred show is complete without the legendary Newport Helicopter. As the band launched into “Warning,” the crowd grabbed loose clothing, spinning it above their heads like they were about to take flight—a ritual synonymous with Skindred’s live shows, as seen at festivals like Download.

SMR Festival: A Night of Rock Royalty

Skindred headlined a stacked Friday night lineup, joined by Bob Vylan, the London duo known for their genre-defying chaos, Those Damn Crows, an unstoppable force in new rock, and SNAYX, the punk-infused alt-rock act that brought the fire. Together, they created a night etched in the memories of the fans at Lamex Stadium. Read our Bob Vylan SMR review.

What’s Next for Skindred?

With their latest album Smile hitting No. 2 in the UK charts, Skindred’s trajectory is soaring. But the real question is—have you experienced a Skindred show yet? If not, what’s stopping you? Are you ready to jump, sing, and lose yourself in the madness? Check their tour dates at skindred.net.

Setlist

Set Fazers
Rat Race
Pressure
Doom Rift
Worlds on Fire
That’s My Jam
Skindred Radio
Love
If I Could
Kill the Power
Nobody
Gimme the Boom
Warning

If you were there, tell us—what was your favorite moment? And if you weren’t, well… what are you waiting for? Follow Skindred on Instagram for updates.