Shame thrives on confrontation. Whether it be the seething intensity crackling throughout debut LP 'Songs of Praise' or the adrenaline-pumping chaos that unfolds at Shame’s shows, it’s all fueled by feeling. NPR’s Bob Boilen noted, “Of the 70 bands I saw at this year’s SXSW, the band Shame seemed to mean what they played more than any other.”
Comprised of vocalist Charlie Steen, guitarists Sean Coyle-Smith and Eddie Green, bassist John Finerty, and drummer Charlie Forbes, the London-based five-piece began as school boys. From the outset, Shame built the band up from a foundation of DIY ethos while citing The Fall and Wire among its biggest musical influences. Utilizing both the grit and sincerity of that musical background, Shame carved out a niche in the South London music scene and then barreled fearlessly into the angular, thrashing post-punk that would go on to make up 'Songs of Praise', their Dead Oceans debut.
From “Gold Hole,” a tongue-in-cheek takedown of rock narcissism, to lead single “Concrete” detailing the overwhelming moment of realizing a relationship is doomed, to the frustrated “Tasteless” taking aim at the monotony of people droning through their day-today, 'Songs of Praise' never pauses to catch its breath.
Black vinyl pressing
Tracklisting
Side A:
1. Dust On Trial
2. Concrete
3. One Rizla
4. The Lick
5. Tasteless
Side B:
1. Donk
2. Gold Hole
3. Friction
4. Lampoon
5. Angie
