About This Footage
This footage is a rare gem from Shihad's live Periscope broadcast on December 15th, 2015, at Western Springs in Auckland. The clip captures the band's final songs before they exit the stage, with the added context that this was one of their opening slots for AC/DC. This particular performance matters because it showcases the band's high-energy live show and their ability to command a large audience.
At the time of filming, Shihad had been touring extensively in support of their latest album, which would have been released around 2015. As a prominent rock band from New Zealand, they were likely seen as one of the country's most successful exports. The fact that they were opening for AC/DC speaks to their established reputation and ability to draw large crowds.
What makes this clip rare is its unique perspective on Shihad's live performance. Most live recordings capture the full setlist or a specific song, but this Periscope broadcast offers an intimate look at the band's final moments on stage. The viewer gets to see the energy of the crowd, the camaraderie between band members, and the excitement as they wrap up their set.
One of the most striking aspects of this footage is the contrast between Shihad's energetic performance and the more subdued reaction from the audience. While the band is giving it their all, with Jon Toogood's signature vocals and Tom Larkin's pounding drums, the crowd seems somewhat subdued. This could be due to the fact that they were opening for a massive act like AC/DC, or perhaps the audience was still warming up.
Shihad's career trajectory is also worth examining in this context. Formed in 1988 as a punk band, they evolved into a more polished rock sound by the mid-1990s. Their biggest commercial success came with their self-titled album in 2002, which featured the hit single "The Beautiful People". This clip offers a glimpse into their later years, when they were still touring and performing to large crowds.
This footage will leave viewers with a sense of Shihad's live energy and dedication to their craft. The band's ability to command an audience is evident in this brief snippet, even if it was one of their opening slots for AC/DC. For fans of the band or those interested in New Zealand music history, this clip offers a unique perspective on Shihad's later years.
It's worth noting that Shihad's live performances were always a highlight of their career, with Jon Toogood's charismatic stage presence and Tom Larkin's impressive drumming skills. This footage captures the essence of their live show, even if it was just a brief snippet. The contrast between the band's energy and the audience's subdued reaction adds depth to this clip, making it more than just a rare recording.
The fact that this Periscope broadcast is from 2015 also highlights the changing landscape of music consumption at the time. Live streams were becoming increasingly popular, offering fans a new way to experience live performances remotely. This clip serves as a reminder of Shihad's commitment to engaging with their audience and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in terms of live music.
Ultimately, this footage is a testament to Shihad's enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences over two decades. Even if it's just a brief snippet from one of their many performances, it offers a glimpse into the band's later years and serves as a reminder of their dedication to their craft.
Curated from public records and music databases.
