SHIELDS

Our latest tip comes from North-East act Shields, with an accomplished and intelligent piece of indie alt-pop.

‘Alive’ is brilliantly crafted, and pulses steadily through the verses, before building gloriously to a cathartic chorus, with crashing, ferocious drums and euphoric, soaring harmonies.

Every member plays a part which is integral to the depth of the song. Each instrument adds a new dynamic; the transcending basslines and relentless drums giving the track life and momentum, and the guitar and keys bringing melodious hooklines to the table. The result is a track which is wonderfully layered, anthemic and intense.

It’s difficult to talk about this track without at least once mentioning the music video. Trippy and weird, the video tells the tale of a psychopath DJ, feeding his constant desire to murder and mame, whilst his ever-loyal mate rather begrudginly turns a blind eye. We follow the terrible twosome about in their RV, as they travel up and down the country, well, killing people. It’s pretty dark.

With plays on BBC Newcastle, Amazing Radio and BBC 6 Music under their belt, a headline slot at The Rabbit Hole at Glastonbury, and having been recently featured as The Guardian’s ‘Band Of The Week’, Shields are shaping up to be an unstoppable force this year.

Words by George Rowan

Tipped by Bob Allan