Shopping at Sticky Mike’s, Brighton

The now London based trio of Rachael Aggs, Andrew Milk and Billy Easter that make up Shopping, released their outstanding debut album ‘Consumer Complaints’ in 2013. Filled with enough post-punk flare to sell out a first pressing by MILK Records, the striking tracks of ‘Consumer Complaints’ went on to be compared to the likes of Talking Heads and Gang of Four, holding true to the late 70s and 80s new wave of acute and structured composition. Their cohesive and uncompromising sound has since flourished further in their other two releases: ‘Why Choose’ in 2015 and ‘The Official Body’ earlier this year, both through FatCat Records.

When you listen to their recordings you cannot help but be impressed by their intransigent sound, yet an even truer pleasure is found when you experience the same close-knit and hard-line performance in person. Filling both the downstairs room and the upstairs bar at Sticky Mike’s in Brighton, Shopping’s spirit was unavoidable. As quickly as their set began, the crowd eagerly bopped along in unison with their punchy basslines and captivating lyrics. Exerting powerful stage presence and personality, Aggs fronts the three with enough energy to blow a lightbulb. Her fantastic improvisations only to be closely followed by her peers with such precise delivery on every beat. It’s clear that the trio, often switching between vocal combinations, love performing together, and accordingly the crowd clearly appreciated the vibrant dynamics of the band, and the set.

Currently touring internationally promoting their latest release ‘The Official Body’, it’s not hard to recommend Shopping live or in stereo to anyone who’s a fan of pop-esque post-punk and all the modern character they bring with it. 

Review guest written by Lizzie Clark-Norgaard and Alfie Baker. Photography by Lizzie Clark-Norgaard.