About This Footage
In 1989, a group of teenage musicians from Wellington, New Zealand, took to the stage at the Blenheim Road Motor Inn in Christchurch. Shihad, then an up-and-coming rock band, was about to make history with their electrifying performance. The footage of this gig, captured by Paul Sparkes for Video Specialists, is a rare and precious gem that offers a glimpse into the early days of one of New Zealand's most beloved bands.
At the time, Shihad was still in its formative years, with founding members Tom Larkin, Phil Knight, and Jon Toogood just 16 years old. Despite their tender age, they had already begun to make waves in the local music scene, earning recognition as one of New Zealand's top heavy metal bands. This achievement is all the more impressive considering the band's humble beginnings and the relatively short time they'd been together.
The Grunt Records and Video Specialists Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Awards, where Shihad took home the award for Best New Zealand Heavy Metal Band, was a significant milestone in their career. It not only validated their hard work but also provided a platform for them to showcase their talent to a wider audience. The fact that they were able to perform at this prestigious event, surrounded by industry professionals and peers, speaks volumes about their dedication and passion for music.
This footage is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's a testament to the band's early promise and potential. Watching Shihad in 1989, one can't help but feel a sense of excitement and energy emanating from the stage. The performance is raw, unbridled, and full of life – qualities that would become hallmarks of their later work.
The production values of this footage are also noteworthy. Directed and produced by Paul Sparkes for Video Specialists, it's clear that a lot of care and attention went into capturing the performance. The camera work is crisp, the sound quality is excellent, and the editing is seamless. Even today, the footage holds up remarkably well, with its grainy aesthetic and slightly dated production values only adding to its charm.
What makes this clip truly rare and significant is that it's a previously unreleased piece of Shihad history. For fans who've followed the band over the years, this footage offers a unique glimpse into their early days – a time when they were still finding their footing and honing their sound. It's a chance to see them in their rawest form, before they became the polished, accomplished musicians we know today.
For those new to Shihad, watching this clip will provide an introduction to one of New Zealand's most beloved bands. It's an opportunity to experience their early energy and passion firsthand, and to appreciate the hard work and dedication that went into building their career. As you watch Shihad take the stage in 1989, surrounded by cheering crowds and industry professionals, it's impossible not to feel a sense of excitement and anticipation – a feeling that would become a hallmark of their live performances for years to come.
The footage ends with a shot of the band accepting their award, beaming with pride. It's a moment that encapsulates the spirit of their performance – one of raw energy, unbridled enthusiasm, and a deep love for music. As you watch this clip, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at the journey these young musicians would embark on, and the incredible heights they would eventually reach.
Curated from public records and music databases.
