It has been said that every genre of music has its roots in folklore and tradition. Punk band Slalom D from Sunderland are no exception to the rule and have written a new song about one of Wearside’s most macabre myths.
The track, ‘Cat and Dogs’, features on their soon-to-be-released album, ‘Waltz into Anarchy’, on Serial Bowl Records. Known for their raw energy and outspoken lyricism, Slalom D have been a driving force in Sunderland’s punk scene for many years. Their fusion of visceral punk sounds with thought-provoking lyrics has earned them a devoted following.
One of the many standout tracks on the album delves into a local tale of folklore associated with Sunderland’s coastline; ‘Cat and Dogs’ refers to the same named 49 Steps at Roker, Sunderland.
The origin of the name of the steps is a mystery as no one knows with absolute certainty why these 49 winding steps were so-called. Legend has it that pet owners used to deposit their deceased or poorly pets into the nearby River Wear and the forces of wind and tide would wash the poor animals into the North Sea where the corpses would be found washed up at the foot of the steps.
Singer Fiona Duncan reflects on the inspiration behind the song, stating: “The steps were very close to my house when I was growing up. I spent a lot of time exploring and playing on the rocks around there. Only recently, my parents told me that when pet animals died, people just took them to the river, and that’s where they eventually washed up. It was such a shock to hear this as an adult as it was like spoiling a childhood dream. That’s what the song is about – blissfully being ignorant. I’m not sure of the origin of the tale but it’s a part of Sunderland’s rich folklore and worth preserving for generations to come in song,” she added.
The #Waltz into Anarchy# album containing the evocative ‘Cat and Dogs’ demonstrates Slalom D’s ability to blend punk’s rebellious spirit with local folklore, offering listeners a unique and thought-provoking musical experience.
As well as the new album, one of Slalom D’s music videos, ‘Burning Days’, has been nominated at the Sunderland Shorts Film Festival and the Prague Music Video Awards 2023. The band also play Sunderland Waves Festival on November 11th.
For further information about Slalom D, head to slalomd2.bandcamp.com.
