The Slytones have been delighting and bewildering audiences in equal measure with their Cirque De Lune for a few years now. Their live performances are hewn in local legend for their ferocity and showmanship. Theirs is a presence that commands attention from the moment those painted faces enter the room. Their stark visage’s contrasting boldly with their snappy black uniforms as they amble like sleepy beasts into the spotlights. With eyes rolled back, gnashing teeth and projectile saliva, the band are quite literally intoxicated by the ferocious racket they make, which is precisely what makes them so exciting to watch. You’d be forgiven for thinking the message is one of confrontation. On the contrary, this is a band that feeds off the enthusiasm of the crowd. They relish the fearful stares just as much as the joyous dances. It’s a dense, uncompromising sound, but it’s also inclusive. The bands’ attack is sweetened with a dash of Rocky Horror glamour whilst their alternative nursery rhyme anthems give listeners something familiar to latch on to. Lyrically, their twisted ditties have underlying ulterior motives. Put simply, these are to get high and get laid. These onstage theatrics play an important role in the Slytones. Their personalities (or should that be alter-egos) permeate the music. And give them that indefinable edge that so many bands strive for. This is not an act. This is not a fabrication. This is the real deal. Genuine proof that the spirit of Rock & Roll is alive and well in the stony hearts of five very disturbed individuals.
