Review: The Streets deliver unforgettable Kirkstall Abbey Sessions opener
The Streets kicked off Leeds’ new summer series with a stirring performance, captivating the audience against the stunning backdrop of Kirkstall Abbey
The Streets have always had a way of connecting with people. For a young, slightly lost working‑class lad, Mike Skinner’s lyrics cut straight through. They meant something. They taught us it was okay to care, to look out for your mate.
Sure, the album is packed with bona fide party bangers. But A Grand Don’t Come For Free - 22 years old this year - put words to feelings many of us didn’t yet know how to express.
Kirkstall Abbey is an impressive setting, and before the headline act the monastic ruins were lit up by excellent support. It’s hard not to move along to Antony Szmierek’s north‑western poetry, while Chiedu Oraka continues to put Yorkshire grime firmly on the map. Casisdead’s 45 minutes of UKG ensures the crowd is fully warmed up.
Skinner and company kicked off this year’s Kirkstall Abbey sessions on Friday, and the backdrop couldn’t have been better. As the sun dipped behind the ruins, the Brummie wordsmith delivered two bombastic sets.
With A Grand Don’t Come For Free’s iconic bus stop perched on stage, the night opened with a full run‑through of the album - packed with all‑time classics. Blinded By The Lights sees Skinner parked on the bench, recounting a chaotic night on ecstasy, Dry Your Eyes reminds us to move on, while very few feet remain on the ground during fan favourite Fit But You Know It.
Crowd interaction is minimal, but it’s hardly needed. The songs speak for themselves, and there are almost no lyrics tonight that the audience doesn’t already know by heart.
The 11‑song opener wraps with a short break before a familiar blast signals a shift in pace: Turn The Page announces the start of the greatest hits.
Dubstep‑leaning Who’s Got The Bag makes security staff visibly anxious, while Let’s Push Things Forward gets Kirkstall Abbey grooving. Personal favourite Don’t Mug Yourself is a standout - and writing this the following morning, I’m craving a greasy‑spoon breakfast.
23 songs launch this year’s Kirkstall Abbey Sessions. It’s hard not to get emotional seeing one of your childhood heroes performing against one of the country’s most stunning backdrops.