About This Footage
Shihad's candid conversation with fans in 2008 is a window into the band's psyche at a pivotal moment in their career.
In 2008, Shihad was riding high on the success of their album "Churn", which had been released just two years prior. The band's sound had evolved significantly since their early days as Pacifier, and they were now being hailed as one of New Zealand's most promising rock acts. At this point in time, they were touring extensively, both domestically and internationally, and were starting to gain a loyal following.
The footage of the interview is notable not just because it provides insight into the band's thoughts on their music and career, but also because it showcases their willingness to engage with fans directly. The fact that Shihad took the time to sit down with fans in Christchurch, answering questions and sharing their perspectives, speaks volumes about their commitment to building a connection with their audience.
The interview itself is a fascinating listen, with Tom Larkin and Jon Toogood offering candid responses to fan-submitted questions. From discussions about songwriting and touring, to more lighthearted topics like their favorite foods and hobbies, the conversation is refreshingly down-to-earth and free of pretension.
One of the most striking aspects of this footage is its rarity. At a time when social media was still in its infancy, Shihad's willingness to participate in an online Q&A session was ahead of its time. The fact that they were willing to engage with fans in such a way suggests a level of openness and vulnerability that is all too rare in the music industry.
Watching this interview, viewers will get a sense of the band's camaraderie and chemistry, as well as their passion for creating music that resonates with others. They'll also gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of touring and recording, and get a glimpse into the personalities behind the music.
Shihad's willingness to share themselves with fans in this way is a testament to their dedication to building a loyal following, and it's something that has served them well over the years. Even though they disbanded briefly as Pacifier before re-emerging as Shihad, their commitment to their craft and their audience has remained unwavering.
The 7:12 minute interview may be just a small part of Shihad's history, but it offers a unique snapshot of the band at a particular moment in time. It's a reminder that even in an era dominated by social media and instant gratification, there's still value in taking the time to engage with fans on a deeper level.
As Tom Larkin notes during the interview, "we're just trying to make music that we think is good, and hopefully people will enjoy it." This humility and dedication to their art is something that has endeared Shihad to fans around the world, and it's something that continues to resonate long after this interview was recorded.
Curated from public records and music databases.
