The Band#
Skip the Use is a high-energy French rock band from Lille, formed in 2008 around frontman Mat Bastard. Their sound blends electro-rock, punk, funk, and hip-hop — all of which comes alive on stage with infectious energy, bouncing musicians, and anthemic choruses. They won a Victoire de la Musique in 2013 (Can Be Late), became festival staples across Europe, and have always stayed true to their Northern French roots.
After a hiatus in 2016 and a reformation in 2019 with a refreshed lineup (Enzo Gabert on drums and Nelson Martins on bass), the band continued evolving with Past & Future, then Human Disorder (2022) — an intense post-pandemic album.
Love & Anxiety (2026)#
Released on April 24, 2026, Love & Anxiety is described by Mat Bastard as a “fresh start after a necessary pause to level up.” The album explores human dualities — light and darkness, calm and rage — across 14 tracks that move through genres without settling.
I discovered the album without knowing what to expect and it’s a great surprise: STU plays across multiple registers and the whole thing demands repeat listens.
My favourite tracks:
- Not Too Late
- Good Old Days
- Grew Up Mad
Also: Say That You Love Me, Distorter, We Are Good…
Live#
I had tickets to see them at La Madeleine (Lille) on December 16, 2022 — but the show was cancelled. Major disappointment at the time.
I finally got to see them live at the Ancienne Belgique (AB, Brussels) on December 8, 2025, with Elvis Black Star as the opening act. The energy on stage is exactly what you’d expect from Skip the Use — impossible to stand still.
Upcoming dates:
- L’Aéronef, Lille — January 22, 2027 (one of my favourite venues)
- Sceneo, Longuenesse — January 23, 2027
- Cirque Royal, Brussels — February 12, 2027
