shame's Seattle Tour at the Crocodile
shame’s much awaited return to Seattle, was met with unrivaled hunger and passion. The Crocodile was fervent with palpable energy even before the band even took the stage. The first keys of Fingers of Steel had the audience electrified and swaying and screaming in unison. Pleasantly surprised when a band can retain their fanbase despite growing exponentially in their first few albums, which shame seem to have accomplished remarkably.
Lead singer Charlie Steen, who’s onstage persona is reminiscent of Cook from Skins, dominated the stage and the audience through every word and drop of silence. Like the ocean to the moon’s pull, the audience mercilessly rose and fell with every move Charlie made. Bassist, John Finnerty, pinballed across the stage and his performance was nothing short of legendary. With backflips to boot, the audience gasped and cheered with every chord he struck. Shame and their audience reached symbiosis that night, feeding off each other’s chaotic energy and spirit.
Their rendition of ‘Adderall’ was prolifically gut-wrenching. The juxtaposition of distorted guitars, pounding drums, with lyrics that capture the internal turmoil of being a human being these days created a mosh pit that was frenetic, chaotic, and an emotional release for many.
An invigorating force, shame is revered by all observers of rock and punk. Even Screwdriver Bar, the rock and roll mecca of Seattle, parades their posters alongside legends like Iggy Pop, Nirvana, and Sex Pistols, immortalizing shame after just three albums. Serendipitously, that is where the band made its way for an after-show celebration where they were greeted with shots and adulation in true Seattle fashion.
Shame blew it out of the park. Their brand of rebellion is captivating, uncompromising, and simply put, iconic. Would happily get (accidentally) punched in the gut to catch Shame again.
Coverage by Ruchita // Instagram: @electric_spaceinvader
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