Shame took to the virtual stage via Dead Oceans to celebrate their newly released sophomore album ‘Drunk Tank Pink’ at Brixton Electric. The stream begun with a spoof comedy bit featuring a caricature of a promoter obsessed with Reading 2012, alcopops and tambourines who had neglected to sell a single ticket.
As the band begun their pre-show ritual, frontman Charlie Steen got erotictically oiled up in the green room toilet by a crew member while the rest of the band (and ‘VIP guests’) watched The Weakest Link and drunk WKD’s (for legal reasons; other alcopops are available). After an inspirational and moving speech from a very oily Steen the band took to the stage. This gag seemed to signify and unspoken stepping-stone for the band. Shame – the scary South London punk boys everyone’s afraid to talk to in case they tell you to “fuck off,” have taken down some barriers and seem to finally be having some (public) fun.
In their performance it became abundantly clear how much the band have grown – as if it’s not blatantly obvious through the music. With two new additions, the bands performance style has evolved. Once a shocking and frankly scary sight for anyone who hadn’t experienced the bands raw energy and ferocity before, Shame hold onto their unsettling edginess yet add a new found flair.
Shame’s album release, campaign and now ‘Live In The Flesh’ performance has set them apart from the masses, they are a truly well rounded band full of personality. They don’t shy away from themes of love, isolation and hypomania and are genuinely one of the best bands about; they will make tidal waves when we’re allowed back to live events. Long live Shame.
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