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The Shirts — Live at Paradise 1979
(Bandcamp Think Like a Key TLAK1236, 1979/2026, CD / DL)

by Henry Schneider, Published 2026-06-22

Live at Paradise 1979 Cover art

The Shirts formed in New York City in 1971, fronted by Annie Golden, whose raw and energetic vocals quickly became the defining feature of the band’s sound. In 1977 Golden appeared on Broadway in Hair, later reprising her role in the 1979 film version. With these accomplishments behind her, she brought both stage presence and vocal power to The Shirts, helping to shape their live performances into something memorable. Live at Paradise 1979 captures the band during a nearly hour-long set at Boston’s Paradise Rock Club on August 27, 1979. This performance has remained unheard for over 45 years, making this release an important document of the band at their peak. In addition to the Paradise recording, Think Like a Key Records includes two bonus live tracks recorded at Amsterdam’s Paradiso, adding further depth to this archival release. The Shirts had cut their teeth at CBGB in New York City before taking their music on the road, and that experience is evident here. The performance is an energetic ride through a variety of styles, including punk, post-punk, garage rock, psych, and pop. Throughout the set, Golden delivers a commanding performance, singing her heart out while the band drives hard behind her. Her voice rises above the guitars, keyboards, and drums, anchoring the songs with confidence and intensity. There is a noticeable sense of growing excitement as the audience responds from song to song. Standout moments include “Teenage Crutch,” where the band fully cuts loose, the raw edge of “They Say the Sun Shines,” the trippy psych-punk feel of “Outside the Cathedral Door,” and the bonus track “Laura in the Lion’s Den.” While The Shirts parted ways in 1984 as Golden moved into acting, their later reformation in 1994 — without her — only underscores how Live at Paradise 1979 captures a vibrant and powerful moment from the band’s original prime.

Filed under: New releases, 2026 releases, 1979 recordings

Related artist(s): The Shirts

More info
http://the-shirts.bandcamp.com/album/live-at-paradise-1979

 

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