Gig Review: The Splinters @ Darkroom, Christchurch – 25/09/2026

Wellington 5-piece band The Splinters embarked on a tour early in September to celebrate the release of their two latest singles Boogie Dipstick and Curriculum Vitae.

A cold, rainy late September evening did not deter a passionate crowd from coming out to end it on a high note at Darkroom, Christchurch.

Otautahi band Ragweed kicked off the festivities with a set of original songs. This trio has managed to pull off a fine amalgamation of musical styles, creating their own unique sound.

Their compositions feature atmospheric shoegaze sections that shift seamlessly into foot stomping, grinding metal grooves. Cam’s impressive vocals soar and Brad has an exceptional way of combining funk techniques with straight-up, down-and-dirty rock bass lines. Samuel’s drum style is immaculate with a strong tribal feel, tying it all together.

There’s this very cool bohemian vibe that develops as The Splinters are preparing for their set. A little background music is playing while they’re setting up. Then a fella who turns out to be the headliner’s lead singer rocks up, perches on the drum stool and starts jamming on saxophone. This gives me a feeling that the unexpected could happen anytime and I love it.

The band takes to the stage with their backs to the audience, ripping into a resounding version of the intro to Paranoid by Black Sabbath. The lads are all facing us by the time the sequence is finished, jumping straight into Boogie Dipstick. The song opens with drums and bass with an edgy rock n’ roll sound reminiscent of The Cramps. It then develops into a style that hints at bands like Madness or Ian Dury & The Blockheads with their working-class cockney vocal style and infectious rhythms.

Frontman Gus Klingender has a devil may care attitude alongside eccentric dance moves with names such as “s**t your pants in front of the audience.” He makes a notable exception to shoes although he’s not quite barefoot. His tootsies are sporting some groovy socks that have depictions of unusual looking animals and flowers.

Gus’s energy was matched by William, Reef, Fletcher and Anthony throughout the setlist comprised of originals and covers.

The metal fingers hand symbol is waved around frequently by members of the crowd during the performance. There’s head bobbing, bouncing and spontaneous mosh pit activity breaking out. The rallying cry “Oi! Oi! Oi!” is heard frequently, harking back to the 1970’s British Punk movement.

Darkroom sound tech Sammi did a superb job. Her mixes for both bands were among the best I have heard recently.

The Splinters have written some farkin’ great songs and seeing them live is an engaging, immersive experience. Check them out. They’ll rock your socks off!

Photo Credit: Natasha Hopping