The Wild Eyes

Formed in mid 2004, The Wild Eyes are Nikhil Singh on vocals, guitar and synth, Gareth Dawson on bass and backing vocals, Len Cockcroft on drums, percussion and backing vocals.

The band’s first full length debut was a limited edition album titled: ‘Our Love has a Special Violence’ produced by Dirk Hugo and released in 2005 on One Minute Trolley Dash records. In keeping with the label’s ethos, "Our Love Has a Special Violence" is packaged in a vibrant translucent digi-pack, each of which has been silk-screened by hand. The illustrations and design were done by the band's front man, Nikhil Singh. These limited edition album sleeves are distinctive and reflect the visual quality of the band themselves, reflective in their live performances.

The words that first spring to mind when listening to the release are: 'frantic disko punk'. Midnight Pet and Breakdown are both stand-out singles that seem to convey the very message of the band: "let's dance!"

Our Love has a Special Violence is a remarkable collection of ten songs that penetrate to the very core of electrifyingly danceable pop which are accessible to an array of listners. Most commentators are left failing for apt comparisons, tending to settle on the South African ‘90s band Boo! as a reference point.

Without discrediting their musical ability, they would combine it with a strong visual stage presence that was captivating and memorable for anyone who has witnessed the band live. These intense and vibrant presentations would often feature pink Cleopatra wigs, bizarrely ornate dresses and excessive make-up amongst other theatrics

‘Our Love has a Special Violence’ features acclaimed guest artists on selected tracks such as: Inge Beckman, singer from Cape Town band- Lark, Freshlyground's Kyla Rose-Smith, Lee Thompson of Hog Hoggidy Hogg and Dan Manojlovic of Action Blueprint.

Tracks from this album have been featured on various CD compilations including: Session magazine, two SL magazine compilations and the 2006 Levi's Young Guns compilation, The Cellardoor LIVE cd, the upcoming Mail and Guardian compilation Cd. The Wild Eyes track: 'Valley of the snake' was featured in the SA skate boarding documentary "Kurb", produced by Dallas Oberholzer.

The band was one of four South African bands selected to showcase at the 2007 South by South West music festival held in Austin, Texas. Other upcoming South African bands such as the BLK JKS and KidofDoom have cited being inspired by the Wild Eyes who have left a legacy for the others to follow.