Welsh noise-punk outfit KIKKER are no strangers to turning heads with their raw, visceral sound. But things just got a lot louder for them after their latest track, “White Worms”, from their EP (recorded and released through Death Monkey Records), was given a spin this Monday (Oct 1) on BBC Radio Wales by none other than Huw Stephens—one of the most prominent voices championing indie and alternative music in the UK.
Stephens, who has made a career out of bringing attention to underground artists, didn’t just give KIKKER a casual play. During his broadcast, he highlighted their track as part of a segment discussing the Swansea music scene with Jordan McGuire, the owner of the recently saved grassroots venue, The Bunkhouse. The venue, which had been on the brink of closure, has just been bought by the Music Venue Trust, a move that ensures its future as a vital space for up-and-coming Welsh acts. This news is massive for Swansea’s DIY music scene, and having KIKKER soundtracking that conversation only underscores their growing importance on the local scene.
“White Worms” is a blistering example of KIKKER’s no-holds-barred approach to punk, combining caustic riffs with guttural vocals. It’s not surprising that it caught Stephens’ attention—he’s been a long-time advocate for fresh, unfiltered talent from the region.
As if that wasn’t enough, KIKKER is also set to bring their searing live energy to the upcoming Swansea Fringe Festival, one of Wales’ most exciting grassroots events. Taking place across the city from October 5-7, the Fringe will see KIKKER take the stage at The Bunkhouse on Saturday, October 7 at 9 pm, alongside a lineup of acts that includes both established names and rising stars from across the Welsh music spectrum. Organiser Josh David Read joined Jordan on the broadcast to talk about the festival, which has cemented itself as a key cultural event, with over 200 bands vying for spots on the bill.
With the eyes and ears of tastemakers like Huw Stephens on them, and an upcoming performance at a festival renowned for nurturing indie talent, KIKKER’s presence on the Welsh alternative scene has never been stronger. For a band like KIKKER, who thrive on the energy of DIY punk culture, this kind of recognition feels like the beginning of something even bigger. Keep your eyes on them—this is just the start.