A.J. Gribble

I’ve been a huge fan of Shields ever since I discovered them in 2018 with their album Life in Exile. When they broke up shortly after, I was genuinely bummed. I never got the chance to see one of my favorite bands live, and I thought that chapter was over.

Then, in 2023, they came back and released “Bury Me.” I remember how excited I was that day. I immediately messaged vocalist Joe Edwards asking if he’d be interested in doing an interview, and to my surprise, he said yes!

It was incredible knowing one of my favorite bands was back, and I finally had hope that I might get to see them live someday. Joe and I have stayed in touch ever since, and we even got to do another interview together before the release of their incredible album Death & Connection.

Unfortunately, August 14 marked their final show. As sad as it is to see them go, this is the decision they made, and I completely respect it. Sometimes bands have to close one chapter to start another.

Joe was incredibly kind enough to send me this amazing Shields care package: an embroidered shirt, a signed Death & Connection vinyl and CD, a signed Life in Exile CD and one that was still brand new!

I genuinely can’t thank Joe and the rest of Shields enough for everything, the music, the interviews, the conversations, and the kindness they’ve shown me over the years.

I’m going to miss this band so much. But I’m also excited to see where every member goes next. They’ve left behind some incredible music and memories, and I’ll always be grateful that I got to be a small part of their journey.

Thank you, Shields.