Skindred frontman Benji Webbe has confirmed in a new interview with Dewsbury of Primordial Radio that the band has finished recording their new ninth studio album, with full attention locked onto preparing it for a 2026 release.
As fans get ready for the band’s upcoming headline appearance at SMR25 in Stevenage, Benji made it clear that the new album, described as ten powerful stories is “Gonna slap you in the face!”
While there’s no title or artwork yet for the album, the excitement lies in the creative momentum Skindred has harnessed behind closed doors.
Album Nine Completed: “We’ve Just Finished It”
During the interview, Webbe outlined the band’s recent activities, confirming they had spent several weeks in a Brighton studio working on their ninth album with producer Jay Ruston. Ruston, known for his work with artists such as Anthrax and Stone Sour, collaborated closely with the band to shape the new album.
Dews
So, what’s happening with Skindred? I know you had a huge 2023 and 2024 with Download, Smile, Wembley, all that. But I feel like I haven’t heard from you guys in a little while?Benji Webbe
Sometimes you just gotta be in the lab making that monster, you know what I mean, bro? When you’re in the lab, you can’t do two things at once. Our focus has been on a new record. We just finished it. Spent about three or four weeks in a studio in Brighton with Jay Ruston and I think we hatched out 10 amazing stories, which they call songs. So yeah, we’re in a great place.Dews
Ooh, so it was 2023 when Smile came out. Are we looking at a 2025 release for the new one?Benji Webbe
Nah, 2026, bro. Let’s do it properly. Build it up. You might hear a few newies before the end of the year, but I think a 2026 drop would be great.
All Eyes on Skindred At SMR25 In Stevenage
Despite focusing primarily on the new record, Skindred will return to the stage for select performances, including a headline slot at the SMR25 Festival in Stevenage. The event takes place at the Lamex Stadium, with Skindred headlining on Friday May 23rd, joined by Bob Vylan, Those Damn Crows, and Snayx.
I’ve never been to Stevenage, but I’ve heard the name. I’m excited. Me and the boys were talking about it. The bill’s fantastic. Those Damn Crows — congrats to them on the number one album. Then there’s Snayx — they don’t sound like snakes, but they are snakes — and the mighty Bob Vylan and friends. It’s gonna be a stonking night. Horns up. Rocking out.
Webbe also spoke further and gave praise to Those Damn Crows, who recently achieved a UK number one album.
I’ve known those guys over 10 years. It’s a pleasure seeing the light shine on them. No hype — just heart and rock and roll. They’ve done it the right way — hard work. I knew them when they were in a band called Misconduct — I named that band. They used to hang around the same studios I did. Like, 11 or 12 years ago. Amazing to see them now. Reaping the rewards.
Join Primordial Premium Today
Primordial Premium gives you access to an ad-free listening and reading experience, the power to shape our playlist through Up-Vote, exclusive articles, discounts on merchandise, and the chance to be part of a passionate, vibrant community.
No Title or Artwork — But High Expectations
The upcoming album has yet to be officially named, and no artwork or track names have been decided on either, but Webbe stressed the importance of the songwriting quality.
I’m really excited for what we’ve done. No names for the album yet. No artwork. When you’re on album number nine… it’s a bit trickier, you know what I mean? But exciting times ahead for the Dred. But really, the songs are the focus. And I can honestly say we’ve written a fair amount of bangers for this one. I’m excited.
But to get a No.1 Album again, that’s a battle. When you’re on an indie like Earache, they work their asses off to get you that spot. Gotta respect that. They love music. They’re not fat cats – they’re passionate people who put the work in.
Asked whether the band will return to Download Festival in 2026 and if he would prefer to headline the second stage or sub-headline the main, Webbe stated:
Honestly? I’d like to headline the whole thing. But I’d take headlining the second stage. As long as it’s not just because someone else pulled out. I want us on the poster — not a last-minute replacement. I think we’ve done the work, and this next record’s gonna take us to another level.
Tickets for Skindred’s performance at SMR25 are available here, and you can listen to the full interview below.
We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site. This helps support the station. For our full list of affiliates, head here.
