SHIHAD just hit an unexpected roadblock while on their farewell tour—but the rock legends are taking it in stride.
The band’s entire shipment of tour merch went up in flames at Melbourne Airport this week, in what can only be described as a true rock ‘n’ roll twist of fate.
The fiery mishap happened on the tarmac just as the cargo pallet—containing freshly printed SHIHAD merch—was set to be loaded onto a freight plane bound for New Zealand. The band, known for rolling with the punches over their nearly four-decade career, responded to the situation with a mix of frustration and dark humour.
“Over 37 years, you figure you have been through most scenarios that the music industry can throw at you,” the band said in a statement.
“Nonetheless, having your merch burn to the ground at Melbourne Airport en route to NZ is a new energy. Glad that everyone is safe, we are doing all we can to get new stock printed for our sold-out show in Napier this weekend.”
The legendary Kiwi rockers are currently in the middle of their Loud Forever farewell tour, marking the end of an era that began in 1988. With their last Australian shows coming up, the band remains committed to delivering an unforgettable send-off, fire be damned.
New merch is already in the works and will be available just in time for their near sold-out final run of shows.
SHIHAD’s impact on the Australasian rock scene is undeniable. Formed in Wellington, the band—Jon Toogood, Tom Larkin, Phil Knight, and Karl Kippenberger—became one of New Zealand’s biggest and most enduring rock acts.
Their 1995 album Killjoy furthered their rep, and they went on to release ten studio albums, six of which hit #1 in New Zealand. Their longevity has seen them share stages with icons like Faith No More, Tool, Black Sabbath, and AC/DC.
The band’s legacy includes an induction into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame in 2010, over a quarter of a million records sold, and an unmatched 25 Top 40 singles in their homeland. But all good things must come to an end, and the Loud Forever tour serves as their final bow before they move on to other projects.
With limited tickets remaining, this is the last chance to witness one of Australasia’s most iconic rock bands in action. Head to shihad.com for ticket details.
Merch may be temporary, but rock ‘n’ roll is forever.
Tour Dates Shihad’s farewell lap continues with the following Australian dates:
Thursday, February 13 – The Gov, Adelaide
Friday, February 14 – Round House, Sydney
Friday, February 21 – Astor Theatre, Perth (SOLD OUT)
Saturday, February 22 – Rosemount Hotel, Perth
Thursday, February 27 – Crowbar, Brisbane
Friday, February 28 – The Tivoli, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
Wednesday, March 5 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
Friday, March 7 – Forum, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
