Gig Review: Shedheads @ The Boathouse, Nelson – 31/07/2025

The Boathouse in Nelson was buzzing for a Thursday night, with around 120 fans and supporters of all ages gathering to celebrate the launch of Shedheads’ debut album, Big Milk.

Dressed in white business shirts and ties, the trio bounded onto the stage and kicked things off with their debut single Let Me Know, launching into a full run-through of Big Milk with frenetic energy.

The funky So Much More was followed by the alt-rock duo of Electric Baby and Loathing, before the band returned to their funk roots with Throw Your Lighters Away. Between songs, short, improvised jams gave JP and Shoei space to lock in tight rhythmic grooves, while Ryan used the breaks to show off his lead guitar chops.

The set moved into heavier territory with the hard-rocking title track Big Milk, followed by a punk-driven punch through Poker. The crowd responded enthusiastically to fan-favourite FBB and were captivated by the prog-rock epic Actium.

I was curious to see how they’d handle their most popular song off the album #1 live, given its studio version features complex layering not easily replicated by a three-piece. But with a few smart tweaks to the arrangement, it translated beautifully, providing a gentle comedown to wrap up the album portion of the night.

After a quick break – so quick they’d barely left the stage – the band came charging back, clearly unable to contain their energy. They launched into an unreleased track, Funk It Up, a Muse/Red Hot Chili Peppers hybrid that instantly got the crowd moving.

The second set included covers of some of their musical inspirations. Shoei stepped out from behind the drums to take up bass duties on Tiki Taane’s Always On My Mind. JP somehow channelled both Flea and Anthony Kiedis through a rendition of RHCP’s Dani California, and they followed with Foo Fighters’ Hey Johnny Park before closing with their upcoming single Hand of Roses.

Though the band left the stage, calls for “One more song!” quickly brought them back for an encore – another round of Funk It Up, which the crowd devoured.

A special shoutout goes to Sam Edmunds (drummer for Papercity, Grip Tape, Shuv-It et al.), who, noticing that JP had returned without his in-ear monitor, frantically adjusted the stage monitors to save the moment.

With this performance, Shedheads proved they’ve come a long way from their high school garage band days. They now stand as polished, energetic performers ready to take on the national – or even international – stage.

JP, Ryan, and Shoei would like to thank their friends, fans, and families for their continued support.

Photo Credit: Campbell Folly (Instagram: @folly.photography)