Shame Frontman Charlie Steen cherrypicks the best of The Smiths and The Birthday Party – not diluting, rather concentrating all the punkish ghosts of bygone eras into one snarling, sweaty, semi-clad ball of impish energy. Soaked in beer from the first note, Steen conducts his band through a set laden with energetic, previously unheard material. Their toothy debut AA-side “The Lick”/”Gold Hole” provides the set’s grit and gristle moments – and a further opportunity for a now half naked Steen to drop more louche dance moves – amongst the more pacy new offerings. There’s a lot to be said for taking such a wholly unpretentious approach to punk and politics – it’s quickly made Shame one of the UK’s most vital new bands.
Gold Hole‘ performed by Shame in October 2016 at Lightship95, London.
The Fat Angel Sings 