UK Post-Punk Trio Shopping Announce Breakup and Release Final Single
The UK post-punk band Shopping has officially announced their breakup, marking the end of a 13-year journey in the music industry. The trio shared the news via Instagram on August 15, confirming they hadn’t released an album since 2020’s All or Nothing. In their emotional post, they remarked, “After 13 years, Shopping is taking our last spin through the aisles.” Accompanying their farewell is a new song titled “White Noise,” touted as their final single, along with a music video available on their social media.
Origins and Musical Evolution
Shopping was formed in 2012 in London and quickly established themselves within the post-punk genre, drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Mo-Dettes, Gang of Four, and Delta 5. The band comprises guitarist Ray Aggs, bassist Billy Easter, and drummer Andrew Milk, all of whom were formerly members of the band Covergirl. The group gained considerable attention following the reissue of their debut album, Consumer Complaints, by FatCat Records in 2015.
Despite their fun, dance-centric approach to music, Shopping’s lyrical themes often encompassed queer alienation under capitalism. They released the albums Why Choose in 2015 and The Official Body in 2018, the latter of which showcased a more polished sound and helped them achieve international touring status. Both The Official Body and All or Nothing were recognized by Pitchfork as some of the best rock albums of their respective years.
Final Farewell and Reflections
In their announcement, the band expressed heartfelt gratitude towards their fans, stating, “This song and video are full of incredible memories, all made possible by the love and support of our fans.” They acknowledged the bittersweet nature of their farewell but emphasized their appreciation for the community and experiences they shared. They stated, “You’ve taken us far and wide on so many adventures, and we’re truly thankful for every single moment,” pointing to the meaningful connections formed over the years.
The release of “White Noise” encapsulates their journey, reflecting both their musical evolution and the relationships built throughout their career. Fans can view the music video here.
The Impact of Shopping’s Legacy
As they close this chapter, Shopping leaves behind a significant legacy in the indie and post-punk music scenes. Their refusal to be confined to political commentary while still addressing themes of alienation resonated with many fans, establishing them as key figures in their genre. The band’s influence can be seen in the way contemporary artists navigate the complexities of identity and community within their music.
In conclusion, while the breakup of Shopping marks the end of an era, their contributions continue to inspire and shape the landscape of indie music. Their final work, “White Noise,” serves as both a reflection of their time together and a farewell to their dedicated fanbase, ensuring that their sound will resonate for years to come.
