Shellac

Overview

It’s been 14 years since legendary self-described ‘minimalist rock trio’ Shellac graced our shores following the release of the epic and abrasive 1000 Hurts. Two albums later, the American post-hardcore group renowned for a spasmodic touring schedule (or lack there of) return to Auckland off the back of acclaimed 2014 LP Dude Incredible.

Shellac is something of an underground super group, made up of record producers Steve Albini, Bob Weston and drummer Todd Trainer. As a producer, Albini has touched the work of The Breeders, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Mogwai, PJ Harvey and Dirty Three to name just a few; Weston started out mixing live gigs for the likes of the Pixies before going on to produce and engineer for an endless number of underground post-punk bands while also performing with The Volcano Suns and Mission of Burma; Todd Trainer drummed for a handful of Minneapolis based post-punk bands before an informal collaboration with Albini lead to Shellac, and critical comparisons to Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham.

Shellac have a distinctive, minimalist sound that appeases perfectionist sensibilities and fascinations with abstract timings and arrangements. A fondness for analog recording, vintage equipment and sardonic lyrics so caustic they could burn seal the band's revered and cult status. Shellac play one date in Auckland, don’t miss them – who knows if and when they’ll be back.