What started as an open mic project for a shy, young Shannon Shaw (vocals, bass), to try out some tunes ended with the Clams’ meeting and forming a band, Shannon and the Clams, comprised of Shaw, Cody Blanchard (vocals, guitar) and Ian Amberson (drums, vocals).
Haunting yet beautiful growls emanate from the band’s two lead vocalists, whose heavy heartbeats have been known to hypnotize audience members.
Atlanta area fans of Buddy Holly and bad-brained snarls would do well to head out to The Earl June 23.
What is the strangest thing a fan has done for you? or at your show?
There’s a girl on Pomona who has drawn some really nice portraits of us; that’s not weird just awesome. I have signed a few butts…I got violently tackled onstage by an overexcited fan.
What is the funniest moment you have had as a band so far?
Last night in Pomona, during our song “Ozma,” this girl crowd-surfed to the stage and then did a very bizarre and hilarious dance onstage. Then security guards were trying to capture her but she was so dang spry she was able to dance away from three pro security guards for the entirety of the song! I was laughing so so hard I couldn’t sing hardly any of the song.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Sometimes Cody and I will do some odd vocal warm ups or jump up and down screaming to get pumped when nervous. Last night I caught myself nervously fluffing my aprons!
If you could describe your music in one word, what would it be?
Punkoldies.
How do you connect with a crowd?
I like being close. I hate a tall stage! For me, it really disconnects from the crowd. Also, I re-tap into my original feeling I used when writing then song, as in I re-live it and I think genuine feeling is accessible to people. I only want to see bands play who really mean what they are saying.
How did you come up with your band name?
Ugh, I hate the name! I would change it out if I could but it’s too late.
What is the best way to write music?
Don’t force it. Listening to other music you love can be inspiring, or I go for long drives. Ideas float into my mind while driving.
Grab your tickets to see Shannon and the Clams along with Mikal Cronin this Sunday, June 23 at The Earl!
