“Slinky Malinky Bring an Authentically New, Yet Nostalgic Experience”

Slinky Malinky, a four-piece punk/new wave rock band based in Cardiff, Wales, were the second act to hit the stage at Curbside Festival’s Porters takeover. As the room filled, the band’s stage presence took hold, commanding attention with ease.

Before their set, I caught a brief chat with Sam (vocals) and Rhys (guitar), who shared their mutual love for literature and poetry, citing influences like Brian Patten. It felt like a prelude to my expectations, which were met, then spun into something more by their chaotic yet calculated sound. That poetic thread ran through everything they did on stage.

Their performance evoked the raw spirit of the CBGB’s New York scene, echoing the likes of Television, Talking Heads, and early Ramones, but it was filtered through something deeply personal. Sam’s vulnerable delivery gave each lyric a distinct nuance, adding depth to every song. Their music wasn’t just loud, it was emotionally charged and deliberate. 

It was as if the entire audience had slipped into a trance. All eyes were locked on the band, bodies moving in tune to contagious melodies and chorus-soaked riffs. A blend of confidence and cool, with honest storytelling.

They closed their set with ‘Goon Boy’, their thunderous debut single released on April 18t. This final, defiant send-off left no doubt: Slinky Malinky are just getting started.

FFO: Television, Joy Division, Working Men’s Club, Shame, Slate

Listen to 'Goon Boy' by Slinky Malinky on Spotify & YouTube.

Written by Callum J Lipscombe of Mantra