On “Dreaming Is Dead Now”, multi-talented wonder Skinny Pelembe meditates on grief, heartache, stunted aspirations and fresh possibilities in post-recession Britain. A patchwork of personal and musical touchstones, the Johannesburg-born, Doncaster-raised artist weaves together memories and observations, sun-dazzled California folk diced with the murkier corners of the UK dance lineage. It’s an exaltation of flawed, multi-faceted Britain, its imperfections and contradictions held up to be seen and celebrated.
Since releasing his debut single in 2017, Skinny has been tipped by The Observer, The Quietus and Huck. Singles “I Just Wanna Be Your Prisoner” and “Spit / Swallow” were both picked for BBC 6 Music’s A-List. He’s guested with Lauren Laverne, Mary Ann Hobbes and Tom Ravenscroft on 6 Music, with Jamz Supernova on BBC 1xtra, and recorded live sessions for The Vinyl Factory and Worldwide FM. He sold out a headline UK tour last year, was booked for 6 Music’s 2018 showcase at The Great Escape, and has supported Nightmares on Wax and Maribou State.
Dreaming Is Dead Now by Skinny Pelembe