Australia’s most dangerous ukulele band invades Queanbeyan

Posted on 21 January, 2026

The Ukulele Death Squad are not your average ukulele ensemble – and that’s a sentence we never thought we would write.

But following the announcement that Australia’s most outrageous and genre-defying ukulele collective is coming to Queanbeyan this February, it feels only right to inform you of this unholy union of sea shanties, pirate ballads, and musical mayhem.

Playing at The Q for one show only on Sunday 8 February, the Ukulele Death Squad describes themselves as the planet’s “most dangerous ukulele band.” And if that’s not enough to pique your interest, we don’t know what will.

Featuring eight musicians (maniacs? misfits?) who wield the smallest stringed instrument in the world as “both a weapon of chaos and an invitation to surrender inhibition”, the band has built a reputation as a must-see live band across Australia and Europe since it was founded in 2017.

The award-winning act is travelling to The Q with a brand-new live a cappella double single release, The Curse of the Nipple Tape, and you can trust us when we say that it is not to be missed.

Receiving international recognition and critical acclaim at The Adelaide & Edinburgh Fringe, WOMAD (Adelaide), WOMAD (UK), Boomtown (UK), Dranouter Festival (Belgium), according to reviewers, Ukelele Death Squad’s dark humour, raunchy stage antics, and heartfelt storytelling has captivated audiences and left them begging for more.

Armed with ukuleles, brass and questionable fashion choices, as they celebrate the latest release of their rollicking tracks, they’ll lead a riotous singalong of sea shanties, pirate ballads and original tunes – think sax solos, scandalous surprises and full audience participation.

Who can resist the idea of unhinged musical pirates leading a big ol’ singalong filled with pirate-inspired ballads, foot-stomping shanties, deathy classics, and heart-warming belters?

Alongside their shanty repertoire, the eclectic eight-piece will also deliver their signature blend of folk, soul, funk, R&B, and pop. Equal parts musical odyssey, theatre, ritual and late-night fever dream, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a landlubber looking for a wild night out, this is one show you’ll want to see live.

Feature image supplied.