About This Footage
In a cramped, dimly lit studio in Dunedin, New Zealand, two members of Shihad sit for an interview with Cow TV's cameras rolling. The year is 1995, and the band is on the cusp of releasing their breakthrough album "Champagne Days". Tom Larkin and Jon Toogood, the rhythm section that anchors Shihad's sound, are relaxed yet focused as they discuss their music, influences, and the Kiwi rock scene.
At this point in time, Shihad was a band on the rise. Formed in 1988, they had spent years honing their craft, playing gigs around Wellington and eventually making waves with their debut single "Say It's Not So". The band's early sound was raw and unpolished, but it was also infectious and energetic – qualities that would serve them well as they began to gain traction in the mid-90s. By 1995, Shihad had already built a loyal following in New Zealand, and their music was starting to attract attention from beyond the country's borders.
This interview is rare for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a unique glimpse into the band's early days, when they were still finding their footing as a live act and developing their sound. Secondly, it provides insight into the Kiwi rock scene of the mid-90s – a time when bands like Shihad, Fat Freddy's Drop, and Head Like A Horse were pushing the boundaries of what was possible in New Zealand music.
The footage itself is rough around the edges, with a grainy, low-fi quality that adds to its charm. The camera work is straightforward but effective, capturing the band members' personalities and banter as they chat about everything from their influences (The Pixies, The Smiths) to their own creative processes. Editing is simple yet effective, letting the conversation flow naturally without any unnecessary embellishments.
Watching this interview, a viewer will gain a deeper understanding of Shihad's early days and the factors that contributed to their success. They'll see the band members' passion for music, their commitment to their craft, and their willingness to take risks and push boundaries. It's a fascinating glimpse into the lives of two musicians who would go on to become household names in New Zealand, and it serves as a testament to the enduring power of rock music.
One thing that stands out about this interview is the camaraderie between Tom Larkin and Jon Toogood. They're clearly comfortable with each other, laughing and joking as they discuss their music and influences. This chemistry would become a hallmark of Shihad's live shows, where the band members' friendship and banter helped to create an infectious energy that drew fans in.
In short, this interview is a must-watch for anyone interested in Shihad or Kiwi rock more broadly. It offers a unique perspective on the band's early days, provides insight into the music scene of the mid-90s, and showcases the personalities and chemistry that would come to define Shihad's sound. Even 25 years after it was recorded, this interview remains a compelling and engaging watch – a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the bands that make it.
Curated from public records and music databases.
