ATTACK OF THE STICK INSECTS DELIVER THEATRICAL BRILLIANCE WITH ‘CIRCUS’

SINGLE REVIEW | ATTACK OF THE STICK INSECTS – CIRCUS by Ella Jay

Avant-rock noise masters Attack of the Stick Insects are back with another chaotically epic release. Following the launch of their 2025 self-titled album, fresh single ‘Circus‘ proves that these frantic innovators are delving even further into their sound with bite and vision.

‘Circus’ is an immediately inviting track, opening with synth screeches worming around hazy vocals. AOTSI are theatrical; their tracks exist in their own space, and ‘Circus‘ does a fabulous job of beckoning you into their world. Throughout the song, they flaunt their expertise in expression with hypnotic layering, unpredictability, and moody storytelling that carries the listener through. The vocals on this track are woven in perfectly, adding an extra flair to what is already a genuinely impressive single. A dynamic guitar-washed mayhem that keeps you on your toes- it’s excellent.

The single is part of their new The Circus EP, standing alongside two live recordings: a gripping ‘Interlude‘ and a live favourite, ‘thishashtasteslikeaftereights‘, which is another fluid and engaging display of their craft. These instrumentalists are all wickedly talented; drummer Cory Sneddon really stood out to me on this EP, crashing into sections with a thundering precision that truly wowed me. As time passes, this band only masters their blend of genres and feelings even further. The Stick Insects are incredible live, and I know that these pieces will welcome and amaze an audience of mystified headbangers.

Since their formation in 2024, Attack of the Stick Insects have shown determination, grit and an enviable attention to detail. Their new Circus EP sits very comfortably in their discography of high-energy, charismatic tunes; take it from me- you need to see them live. Five stars!