Cardiff’s Panic Shack burst onto the music scene with an electrifying full-length debut album, aptly titled Panic Shack. This project feels less like a polished product and more like the raw, unfiltered energy of five close friends letting loose in a vibrant, raucous setting. It’s an unabashed celebration of female camaraderie that bypasses any pretence, diving headfirst into the heart of a wild party that seems to crash through your speakers with infectious enthusiasm. Imagine it less as a meticulously crafted pop band and more as a gloriously uninhibited house party where spontaneity and authenticity reign supreme.
At the heart of the riot are Sarah Harvey on lead vocals, whose expressive voice commands attention, backed by the rich harmonic layers woven by Meg Fretwell and Romi Lawrence on guitars and backing vocals. Em Smith lays down the deep, resonant bass, also contributing vocals, while Nick Williams drives the whole operation with his energetic drumming. They crashed together in 2018, surprisingly, with no prior musical experience, but a furious motivation born from the perceived exclusivity of indie and punk scenes. Em quips, “Boys make it look so hard… it’s actually so fucking easy,” a line that embodies their straightforward, no-nonsense approach. Their sound brims with raw, untamed energy, echoing elements of The Slits and the defiant spirit of Australia’s Amyl and the Sniffers. You can even hear authentic live party sounds, recorded at an Amyl & the Sniffers concert, woven into the album’s opening track – a perfect touch that solidifies their raw, unadulterated authenticity.
Panic Shack carves out a diverse sonic landscape, effortlessly shifting between dynamic pop-rock anthems and unexpected electronic detours. Take “Tit School,” for instance—it’s a hilarious, cheeky ode to self-acceptance, packed with whimsical ding-dong noises that inject pure playfulness into a topic like body positivity. Then there’s the pulsating “Do Something,” driving listeners forward with its undeniable energy. They also venture into experimental territory with “squelchy electronics” on tracks like “Lazy,” adding intriguing layers that keep you hooked. Lyrically, this album is a masterclass in droll, observational wit, consistently generating genuine laughs through clever wordplay. “Unhinged” makes a brilliant artistic statement by using actual Hinge dating profiles as lyrics, while “Pockets” delivers a relatable, humorous critique of modern fashion’s total impracticality for carrying essentials.
But don’t mistake their wit for a lack of depth. Panic Shack doesn’t shy away from serious topics. In “Gok Wan,” they launch a sharp critique of “size-zero culture,” directly challenging harmful beauty standards. “SMELLARAT” powerfully confronts the pressing issue of sexual harassment, offering a raw, essential commentary on experiences far too many women face. Crucially, the strong bond of female friendship shines through it all, culminating in the disarmingly earnest closer, “Thelma & Louise.” It’s a vibrant anthem celebrating the importance of sticking together through life’s ups and downs, encapsulating that core essence of solidarity.
Panic Shack’s debut album is not just another contender for album of the year; it’s a triumphant and exuberant release that encapsulates the essence of youthful rebellion. Bursting with energy and raw emotion, it promises to become the unforgettable soundtrack for countless adventures, forging lasting memories that will resonate for years to come.
