Skinny Lister, hailing from the vibrant folk clubs of Greenwich, kicked off their raucous journey in 2009. The trio of Dan Heptinstall, Sam Brace, and Dan Gray—former denizens of indie outfit The Alps—set the stage for a folk-punk saga. The tale unfolds with Michael Camino taking the reins from Gray in 2012, propelling Skinny Lister into the spotlight as the ‘Hardest Working Band in the UK’ in 2011.
Embarking on a relentless musical odyssey, they stormed the 2012 Vans Warped Tour and inked a deal with SideOneDummy Records, birthing their debut opus, “Forge & Flagon,” in 2012. The lineup evolved, morphing into a dynamic six-piece ensemble that birthed the riotous “Down on Deptford Broadway” in 2015. As troubadours of the punk-folk realm, they traversed the globe, sharing stages with the likes of Dropkick Murphys and Boy George.
In 2016, Skinny Lister, despite lineup shifts, birthed “The Devil, the Heart, and the Fight,” a record that resonated in the hearts of folk-punk aficionados. The revolving door of members continued, with Scott Milsom joining the ranks and a deluxe edition dropping in 2017.
The saga persisted into 2018, teasing a forthcoming album that materialized in 2019 as “The Story Is…,” a loosely-woven tapestry of sonic tales. The ensuing years saw them battling pandemic woes, yet they echoed defiance with the Fifth Anniversary Edition of “Down on Deptford Broadway” and tantalizing hints of fresh anthems in 2021.
By 2022, social media murmurs unveiled the exit of Sam Brace and Thom Mills, but the troupe endured, welcoming Tim Hillsdon as the new rhythmic heartbeat.
Come October 2023, Skinny Lister unleashed their sixth opus, “Shanty Punk.” Anticipated by the singles “Down on the Barrier,” “Company of the Bar,” and “Mantra,” the album resonated with the punk folk faithful. Distorted Sound Magazine showered praise, bestowing an 8/10, affirming that “Shanty Punk” encapsulates the essence cherished by Skinny Lister devotees.
And this brings us neatly up to date on a chilly December night at The Fleece in Bristol. Upon flinging the doors open, we are greeted by the warm, eccentric, and lively embrace of the band. Revellers were singing, dancing, and being merry. It felt like that scene in Lord of the Rings where the hobbits were having that big village party. It was simply a room full of heart, reverence, and a collective willingness to celebrate just for the sake of celebrating.
Skinny Lister is, put simply, a band that likes to have a great time and ensures everyone else is as well.
📷📝 Darren Clarke Photography
