About This Footage
In the dimly lit, sweaty confines of the Blenheim Road Motor Inn in Christchurch, New Zealand, a nascent Shihad was unleashing its fury upon an unsuspecting audience. It's 1989, and this fledgling rock band from Wellington is about to take home the award for Best New Zealand Heavy Metal band at the Grunt Records and Video Specialists Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Awards. The footage of their live performance that night has lain dormant for decades, until now.
Shihad was a band on the cusp of greatness, comprised of 16-year-old Tom Larkin, Phil Knight, and Jon Toogood, who would soon be joined by Karl Kippenberger in 1991. At this point, they were still finding their footing, but the raw energy and unbridled enthusiasm emanating from the stage is palpable. This was a band that knew how to bring the house down.
The significance of this footage lies not only in its rarity – it's been over three decades since it was recorded – but also in its historical context. Shihad's early years were marked by relentless touring and gigging, honing their craft and building a loyal following. This performance at the Blenheim Road Motor Inn is a testament to their dedication and perseverance.
The production values are refreshingly low-key, with a senior cameraman like Mike Symes capturing the action on grainy VHS tape. The sound, courtesy of George from Soundman (now Soundpeople), is rough around the edges but captures the intensity of Shihad's live show. Directed and produced by Paul Sparkes for Video Specialists, this footage is a treasure trove of nostalgia for fans of the band and a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's thriving 80s music scene.
As you watch Shihad tear through their set in 1989, it's clear that they were destined for greatness. Their sound was already taking shape – a potent blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals. This is a band that would go on to achieve mainstream success, but here, in this raw, unpolished performance, lies the essence of their early spirit.
The award for Best New Zealand Heavy Metal band may have been a nod to their potential, but it's clear that Shihad was already well on its way to stardom. This footage is more than just a historical curiosity – it's a time capsule, capturing the energy and excitement of a band on the rise. As you watch Shihad set the stage ablaze in 1989, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at their talent and promise.
The Blenheim Road Motor Inn may seem like an unlikely setting for rock 'n' roll history, but it's here that Shihad left an indelible mark. This footage is a reminder that even the most obscure gigs can hold significance, and that sometimes it's the smallest moments that have the greatest impact. As you watch Shihad take home their award, you're left with a sense of wonder at what could have been – had they not gone on to achieve greatness, would this performance remain lost in the annals of time?
Curated from public records and music databases.
