Shihad "For Whom The Bell Tolls" Metallica Cover Blenheim Road Motor Inn Christchurch 1989

About This Footage

In a cramped, dimly lit room deep within the Blenheim Road Motor Inn in Christchurch, 1989, Shihad was on the cusp of stardom. The New Zealand rock band, formed just a year prior, had already begun to make waves with their aggressive sound and energetic live performances. This footage, captured at the Grunt Records and Video Specialists Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Awards, is a rare glimpse into the band's early days.

At 16 years old, Tom Larkin, Phil Knight, Jon Toogood, and Karl Kippenberger were already making a name for themselves in the New Zealand music scene. Their cover of Metallica's "For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a testament to their dedication to heavy metal and their ability to pay homage to their influences while still forging their own sound.

The context of this performance is significant, not only because it showcases Shihad's early promise but also because it highlights the band's connection to the local music community. The Grunt Records and Video Specialists Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Awards was a platform for New Zealand's emerging metal bands, and Shihad's win for Best New Zealand Heavy Metal Band in 1989 was a nod to their hard work and talent.

This footage is remarkable not only because of its rarity but also because it provides insight into the band's early days. The raw energy and enthusiasm of the performance are palpable, and it's clear that Shihad was already honing their craft and developing their unique sound. The fact that this footage has been preserved and shared with the world is a testament to the dedication of those who captured it.

The significance of this clip extends beyond its historical value; it also offers a glimpse into the band's evolution. Shihad would go on to achieve mainstream success in New Zealand, releasing several albums and touring extensively throughout their career. This footage serves as a reminder that even the most successful artists have humble beginnings, and it's fascinating to see how they developed their sound and style over time.

Watching this clip, viewers will be struck by the band's youthful energy and enthusiasm. The performance is raw and unpolished, but it's clear that Shihad was already destined for greatness. The fact that this footage has been preserved and shared with the world is a gift to fans of New Zealand rock music, and it provides a unique perspective on the band's early days.

The camerawork is straightforward, with a focus on capturing the performance rather than creating a polished visual experience. This approach adds to the raw energy of the clip, making it feel more like a live recording than a carefully crafted music video. The sound quality is also noteworthy, with George from Soundman (now Soundpeople) providing live sound that complements the band's energetic performance.

In conclusion, this footage of Shihad performing "For Whom the Bell Tolls" at the Grunt Records and Video Specialists Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Awards in 1989 is a rare and significant find. It offers a glimpse into the band's early days, showcasing their raw energy and enthusiasm as they began to make waves in the New Zealand music scene.

Curated from public records and music databases.

About Shihad

Shihad were a rock band formed in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1988. The band consisted of founders Tom Larkin, Phil Knight and Jon Toogood, who were joined by Karl Kippenberger in 1991. The band were known as Pacifier between 2002 and 2004.