Shields rocked hard when supporting Torche at the Brudenell Social Club in Leeds last month, so it seemed prudent to get them in on the Echoes of the Future act. Jonty answered the questions, and Joe provided the haiku. The others were busy trying to think of new band names...
(((o))): So, first and foremost, who are Shields and what are your musical backgrounds?
Kris – Formally of alt metallers Nerve Engine
Jonty – Shotgun Democracy / Cock Fight
Paul – The Plight
Si – Tangaroa / Year of the Man
Joe – Shotgun Democracy / Seven Headed Cobra
(((o))): How did the band come together?
Well, it started with myself, Paul and a guy called Cheese! Then Cheese left, so we got Kev in as well as Owen. Then we also added Kris, but then Kev left, so then Dave joined. Soon after that Dave and Owen left, so Si joined, as did Martyn, but then Martyn left and thus Joe joined... and there you have it!
(((o))): Please describe your sound in poetic form. (Haiku, rhyming couplets, acrostic, etc - take your pick)
Guitars tuned to A
Extravagant song titles
Skull fucking rhythms
(((o))): How has your local scene impacted you as a band?
The Leeds scene is incredible… It’s an honour to have such talented friends like Pulled Apart by Horses, Black Moth, Hawk Eyes, Black Listers, Humanfly & That Fucking Tank to name but a few! Having the honour to grace the stage with such giants is awesome for us. Even if they do steal our kettle leads.
(((o))): You’ve got an EP and a single out. What can you tell us about those?
(((o))): How do you see the band’s sound developing going into future releases?
(((o))): What do you think is the most difficult challenge facing new bands starting out in the music industry today?
Persuading people to pay for your music!
(((o))): Every band has different aims. What would have to happen for Shields to make you feel that you’d “made it”, so to speak?
(((o))): Comically, having been no bands called Shields around before, there are now three that have all popped up around the same time (there’s also a dodgy metalcore band and an indie band). Have you come up with any creative strategies to make sure everyone knows that you are the Shields to watch?
(((o))): You’re given the opportunity to create your own All Tomorrow’s Parties Festival. What would be the first five bands on your list?
(((o))): Are there any upcoming bands you’d like us to feature?
Ourselves again when we've changed the name haha. And Humanfly if you haven't already! (Ed: We have)
(((o))): What are the band’s plans for the near future?
We’re recording a new album very soon, we have a couple of videos planned and once we've done those things, we’re getting back out and playing some shows!
Thanks for asking the questions!
