Spiked red balaclava from TISM

A defining feature of the seven-piece alt rock band TISM (This Is Serious Mum) is their anonymity, with members donning masks, wigs and elaborate costumes like this spiked red balaclava from 1989. It helped form the larger-than-life theatrical personas of the band members, who have retained a cult-like status since the early 1980s, and were renowned for their satire and chaotic live performances. The sense of mystery these costumes created also complements the Melbourne group's eclectic musical style, blending political commentary with pop culture references. Adding mohawk-style spikes to a balaclava makes it both comical and disturbing; a perfect summation of the band's appeal. Their devoted fanbase revels in the band's knack for taking the mickey out of mainstream Australian culture – from Aerobics Oz Style to AFL, no subject is taboo. Known for controversial, cringeworthy lyrics, TISM is also notoriously difficult to interview. On their album Death to Art (2024), they boldly declare, ‘Everything sucks except for TISM!’