Fronted by the enigmatic Skin, identified as one of the most veracious, iconic, and engaging female vocalists in modern musical history, and further to the release of the greatest hits album Smashes and Trashes, dulcet rockers Skunk Anansie are back, and quite simply as stunning as ever.

Following an eight year cessation of activity, a buzz of anticipation proceeds tonight’s show, before the band take to the stage with the same vigour and verve I had witnessed at the height of their success, 12 years previously.

As the band play the opening bars of Selling Jesus from the 1995 debut album Paranoid and Sunburnt, Skin (aka Deborah Dyer) makes her entrance with dazzling stagecraft. During the first verse, shrouded in what can only be described as a giant pom-pom, she cavorts around the stage like a woman possessed. Occasionally giving the audience a glimpse of her face, she reveals herself mid-song, before disposing of the outfit prior to Charlie Big Potato, the first single from the 1999 album Post Orgasmic Chill.

Premiere album tracks Charity, 100 Ways to Be a Good Girl and the massive sing-along I Can Dream are sandwiched in-between new tunes Because of You and I Don’t Wanna Kill You. The latter being of exocet tempo, which has the sell-out Civic Hall whipped into a frenzy.

Founder member and guitarist Ace, bassist Cass and drummer Mark Richardson (also of Feeder) are superb throughout. However, it has to be said that Skunk Anansie live, is all about Skin. Her voice is tender enough to break your heart, yet powerful enough to rip apart the fabric of space and time. Climbing speakers to reach the balcony seats and crowd surfing the entire length of the standing area; she is a whirlwind of energy, a captivating individual and an exceptional vocalist.

Engaging with the crowd throughout, Skin dedicates a song, quipping: “this is for those in the balcony who pinched my a**e!” Later, showing appreciation for the support, she tells “how humbled” the band has been, and on more than one occasion it is suggested that Skunk Anansie will be recording a new album and touring again next year.

Many more smashes are played tonight, including On My Hotel TV, The Skank Heads and from the second album Stoosh: Twisted (Everyday Hurts), Brazen (Weep) and Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Good).

As the show comes to a close with the excellent new track Squander and the pounding Little Baby Swastika, I sincerely hope that we will be seeing more of Skunk Anansie. If a band can burn out, take a decade to reform and come back rejuvenated like this, then there are many who should take note.