You know The Romantics’ 1979 hit What I Like About You, right? You’ve probably heard it many times (just like their other hits, but that aside), but Mike Skill, co-founding member of the American rock band, has made a new version of the classic party anthem for his debut solo album, self-titled in the James Bond way: Skill…Mike Skill. With The Romantics touring halted during the pandemic, he turned to songwriting in his home studio, reflecting on the music that he grew up with. The old rocker recorded 11 original songs – he did the vocals, guitars, and bass – along with Brad Elvis, and Kevin Rankin. In addition, Wayne Kramer, Chloe F. Orwell, and Patrick Harwood also stopped by for guest appearances. Chuck Alkazian was in the producer’s chair.
What do you do on your first solo LP after four decades of The Romantics? Exactly, doing what you are good at: playing loud! These new power-pop tracks are catchy as can be, with good old-fashioned guitar solos and drum breaks, to dance and sing along to. In both the lyrics and the vocals you can hear the experience and life on the road from all those years ago. This is a debut rooted in the past but to be cherished in the present, a debut to be very proud of. Stream the full album below.
“I’m an Iggy Sympathizer // A Scott Rationalizer // A Wayne K Rocker // A Fred Sonic Shocker // And Matheu on the lens // With a Sonic Rendezvous mobster // Got Ron and Scott haulin’ // A Locomotive Destroyin’ Monster / Yeah yeah yeah” – from We Got Your Rock’n Roll
Skill…Mike Skill is out now digitally, a vinyl LP will follow later this year. Add to wantlist: Bandcamp