The Amazing Snakeheads have been playing together for four years, and that whole time it’s been nothing if not for themselves. “High energy rock ‘n’ roll,” as singer Dale Barclay puts it in Issue 11. True, that – when these boys play its every man for himself, guns blazing; their shows are a visceral onslaught that leaves audiences amped and hungry for more.

“You’ll probably be scared when Dale gets his angry face on, his energy face,” says drummer Jordon Hutchison. “Aye! Fucking disco death mask face. Something like that.”

Backing up the recent release of their debut album Amphetamine Ballads,  the band share the tracks that get them vibed up; for gigs, for lashing out, winding down, lovin’ … Take note.

Low Expectations by Edwyn Collins
“I really love the hushed tones and the softness of the lyrics.”

We Almost Lost Detroit by Gil Scott-Heron
“This track has a really laid back groove, perfect when you are pursuing a lady.”

Nightclubbing by Iggy Pop
“A song to really get you fired up. Totally sleazy and we use it as our walk-on song.”

Transmission by Joy Division
“Ian Curtis is one of the best front men of all time and being a bass player that bass line is really up my alley.”

Black Milk by Massive Attack
“Tension ridden, eerie with that fantastic etherial female vocal.”

The Payback by James Brown
“Mr. Dynamite himself. Need I say more?”

Let’s Boogaloo by Willie Rosario
“A great Havana jive, summertime bliss with margaritas.”

Evil Ways by Santana
“Latino funk, I feel like this is setting me up for something, a night out perhaps. Gets me in the mood.”

Welcome to the Machine by Pink Floyd
“Way ahead of its time with respect to the instruments and production.”

These Boots Are Made For Walkin’ by Nancy Sinatra
“A Vietnam classic and its from Full Metal Jacket one of my favourite films.”

Soul Kitchen by The Doors
“Really evocative of a time and place. Great end of the night song.”

Tainted Love by Gloria Jones
“Northern Soul classic. The band spent a lot of time in Northern Soul clubs growing up. Perfect dancing tune.”

Wake up Little Suzy by The Everly Brothers
“Great harmonies, really makes me feel like running.”

I’d Rather Be Blind by Etta James
“Possibly the best love song ever written. Also the only cover we have ever played.”

Let’s Stay Together by Al Green
“Great song for dancing with your lady at the end of the night.”

Flatlining by The Amazing Snakeheads
“This one always gets the crowd going for us. All the anger and tension leads into a big drop and killer guitar solo.”

The Amazing Snakeheads’ debut album, ‘Amphetamine Ballads’, is out now via Domino. 

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