ORIGINS (1980s)

Formed in Kilmarnock, Scotland, in the mid-1980s, The Termites exploded onto the psychobilly scene with their ferocious blend of punk energy and rockabilly swagger. Known for their raw sound, irreverent attitude, and high-octane live shows, they quickly gained a cult following in the UK and Europe.

The band’s early output included now-classic psychobilly tracks, and they became regular fixtures at festivals such as the Psychobilly Meeting and Bedlam Breakout. Their debut album Overload cemented their place as one of Scotland’s loudest exports.

KICKED IN THE TEETH (2000s – 2010s)

After a hiatus, The Termites reformed in the 2000s with renewed purpose, playing to packed crowds and attracting a new generation of fans. They continued to release fresh material while keeping their live sets fast, loud, and dangerous — a hallmark of their style.

THE MODERN LNE-UP (2025 – PRESENT)

In 2025, Dougie Ritchie joined the band on double bass. Dougie, also a member of Scottish skabilly cowpunks outfit The Three ’n’ Eights, is a multi-instrumentalist and long-time friend of the band from the early Kilmarnock scene. His arrival injected new energy into the rhythm section, pushing the band into their next chapter.

NEW MUSIC AND COLLABORATIONS

The Termites are currently in the studio working on a brand new album, provisionally entitled “Square Go”, due for release in 2026 on 13 Deluxe Records. Singles from the project are set to appear throughout 2025, marking the band’s most ambitious work to date.

They have also released a special collaboration with The Borland Ceilidh Band, recording The Pogues cult classic “Boys from the County Hell” — a fusion of psychobilly grit and Celtic fire.

LEGACY

From their 1980s beginnings to their current resurgence, The Termites have stayed true to their DIY roots while constantly evolving. Fierce, uncompromising, and proudly independent, they remain one of psychobilly’s most enduring and respected acts.