The Shades are Ireland’s newest rhythm & blues ambassadors – five young lads with old souls trading as an authentic early ‘60s beat combo. And, ahead of the release of debut single ‘I Give Up’ – a slice of energetic old school pop with a driving backbeat – things are getting very busy. “We’re doing a lot of radio, playing acoustic songs and plugging the single,” says bassist/vocalist Stef. “One of the stations is actually in Poland, which is great, and they’re playing the track on the radio in the UK. We’re over the moon with it.”
The single was recorded in Beechpark Studios, Kildare but mastered in the legendary Abbey Road, synonymous with ultimate ‘60s beat combo, The Beatles. “They were massive for us,” says Stef, “and the Rolling Stones, Elvis and Buddy Holly. We were all interested in that 60s sound from the music our parents listened to when we were growing up.” To what does Stef attribute the youth of Ireland’s growing love for early Rock ‘n’ Roll? “I think it started with the resurgence of vinyl, then The Strypes made it really big and, with things like Spotify and Youtube, you can find these great old artists at the touch of a button.”
The band have played the Body & Soul Festival, toured with Paddy Casey, supported The Strypes, sold out dates in Liverpool and Manchester, and don’t look like slowing down anytime soon. “We’ve already started some other recordings that we hope to finish over Christmas and release next year, hopefully on vinyl, like a double A-side single.”

SEE: The Shades at the Grand Social for the launch of the ‘I Give Up’ single on November 13.
HEAR: Listen to tracks from The Live Sessions here.