Live Review: Panic Shack - King Tuts, Glasgow
Support: The Pill
13th May 2024
Words & Photos: Laura Muraska-Ross
Panic Shack descended upon King Tut's recently, and left their mark on the Glasgow faithful with a performance that was nothing short of a joyous, chaotic, and utterly electrifying.
Support from The Pill was also a revelation. The Isle of Wight duo warmed up the room with their own brand of gritty, humorous punk, leaving the audience primed and ready for Panic Shack's explosive arrival. They were the perfect edition to the lineup and an ideal pick to match the energy and attitude of the headliners.
The Pill arrived with a reputation for their self-described “jank punk", a label that perfectly encapsulates their gritty, humorous, and sometimes intentionally messy approach. From the moment they stepped onto the intimate stage, they owned it. Their set was a focused on engaging an audience, punctuated by dance moves, playful banter, and lyrics that gripped, with a sharp, satirical edge.
Tracks like their recent single "Money Mullet" were delivered with a mischievous glint, prompting giggles and knowing nods from the crowd. Lily and Lottie's dual vocals, was a highlight, shifting effortlessly between snarling punk declarations and moments of almost theatrical delivery. They possess an undeniable chemistry, their energy bouncing off each other and grabbing the room by the ear holes.
There was a genuine sense of fun radiating from the stage, and it was infectious. The Pill proved themselves to be far more than just a warm-up act; they were a force in their own right, leaving a lasting impression and undoubtedly gaining a legion of new fans!
On to the main act and the Cardiff four-piece Panic Shack, renowned for their fiesty live shows and unapologetic attitude, proved exactly why they are one of the most exciting bands to emerging on the scene at the moment. Leaving the packed 300-capacity venue buzzing long after the final chord faded. It was a night that showcased fun, ferocity, and a sense of joyous liberation that is emerging on the UK punk scene at the moment.
From the second they burst onto the stage, launching into their incendiary single ‘Gok Wan’, the energy in the legendary King Tut's was palpable. Front person and lead-vocalist, Sarah Harvey was a captivating blur of motion. Her snarling vocals cut through the dense guitar riffs provided by Meg Fretwell and Romi Lawrence. Emily Smith's bass lines also provided a formidable, throbbing backbone, a rhythmic force that drove the entire set forward.
What truly sets Panic Shack apart is their unique blend of raw, no-holds-barred punk with an infectious sense of fun and genuine togetherness. Their stage presence is a whirlwind of synchronised moves, playful banter, and a clear enjoyment of what they do. This isn't just a band playing songs; it's a party you want to be a part of and a girl gang you desperately want to join.
The set, though relatively short, was packed with fan favourites like ‘Jiu Jits You’, ‘The Ick’ and new material that held its own against their established anthems. The crowd, a diverse mix of ages and genders, responded well, singing along to every word and initiating mosh pits that perfectly captured the spirit of the night.
Panic Shack's performance was a testament to their growing power as a live act. They are inclusive, immensely talented, and possess a magnetic quality that draws you in. While the night ended too soon for many, the grinning faces spilling out onto the Glasgow streets were clear evidence of a perfectly formed, unforgettable show. If you haven't experienced Panic Shack live yet, you're truly missing out. Go add them on socials to see where you can expect them to pop up next.
Photo Credits: Laura Muraska-Ross
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