#15 Shihad

Formed in Wellington in 1988, Shihad (originally known as "Pacifier" in the US) quickly established themselves as one of the most electrifying live acts in the country, thanks to their powerful, riff-heavy sound and intense, visceral performances. Over the years, they've released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including the iconic "Killjoy" and "The General Electric", and have become known for their ability to fuse hard rock, metal, punk, and other genres into a distinctive and fiercely original sound. But Shihad's journey hasn't been without its challenges. They've weathered lineup changes, label disputes, and even a name change controversy, and have faced criticism and controversy over some of their more politically charged lyrics and album artwork. In this episode, we'll explore the highs and lows of their career, from their early days as a scrappy local band to their current status as one of New Zealand's most beloved musical institutions.