Skunk Anansie Photo: CUFFE & TAYLOR

Garbage Photo: CUFFE & TAYLOR

Two bands from the same era came together for what was the most rock-orientated affair so far in the summer series of concerts at the Piece Hall in Halifax. Skunk Anansie and Garbage were two of the biggest rock bands in the late nineties, both offering their take on the alternative side of the genre. The idea of the two acts performing alongside each other was an inspiring and logical one, resulting in another unforgettable night in Halifax

Fronted by the menacing, yet utterly charming, Skin, Skunk Anansie delivered a masterclass in raw energy – still having the political anger that was always part of their make-up. The 6,000-capacity crowd observed an explosive set which included Weak as I Am, Lost Not Found, Shame and Tear the Place Up. The carefully orchestrated set started almost as a calm and reflective one before developing into a raging storm – as you might expect with Skink Anansie, who appeared to have lost none of their ferociousness.

As Skin mingled with the front of the audience towards the end of their set, Little Baby Swastika took the fans back to the nineties as the energy from the stage became explosive. After this energetic performance, the bar was set high for the rest of the evening.

Garbage, led by the mesmerising Shirley Manson along with Butch Vig and the rest of the group, performed a deep dive into their comprehensive back catalogue, which included Paranoid, Stupid Girl, Grow Up, Now and the timeless 90’s anthem I’m Only Happy When It Rains. Even the wardrobe technicality when Manson could not unzip her jacket did not spoil the flow of the evening, which mixed classic tracks with newer ones; even nearly thirty years on from their existence, Garbage still managed to sound current and dangerous. The rhythm pounded throughout, the guitars were turned up loud, and Manson’s vocals cut a distinctive edge, with the attitude of punk yet ultimately seductive.

The Piece Hall was rocked to its historic foundations yet again on a night where both bands proved that, like a fine wine, some things do get even better with age.

Skunk Anansie and Garbage appear at Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Saturday 20th June