Legendary NYC New Wave Band The Shirts Return with Infectious New Single and Video “Move On Groove On”
After a 13-year hiatus, iconic New York City band The Shirts are back with a vengeance. The band, which first rose to prominence in the late ’70s CBGB scene, returns with “Move On Groove On,” a blistering new single that captures the raw energy and infectious hooks that made them a favorite of that era.
“Move On Groove On,” along with the evocative “Deux Royale,” marks the first taste of new music from The Shirts since their critically acclaimed 2010 album, The Tiger Must Jump. The single finds the band, who released three influential albums with Capitol Records (Harvest in the UK) – The Shirts (1978), Street Light Shine (1979), and Inner Sleeve (1980) – firing on all cylinders. They deliver a potent blend of their signature new wave and angular guitar power pop, infused with balladry that exudes a fresh yet nostalgic edge.
Accompanying the single is a kinetic music video for “Move On Groove On,” showcasing the band’s enduring stage presence and the song’s undeniable groove. Directed by Vince Misiano, the video has the band playing in a hip New York City club, a nod to their roots, pulsating with the same energy that made them a live force to be reckoned with.
Watch the video for “Move On Groove On”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymk7Bhv3Kv0
The Shirts’ reunion, sparked by a chance meeting of Bob and Annie on a street in Park Slope, Brooklyn in Oct 2023 brings together surviving original members and longtime collaborators. Lead singer Annie Golden, who has since enjoyed a successful acting career in TV, film, and theater, most notably on Broadway where she received a Grammy in 2022 for Into The Woods (cast album singing Stephen Sondheim) unites with bassist Robert Racioppo, an accomplished painter. Guitarist Arthur Lamonica, who writes, records and actively performs with his band Rome 56, also rejoins the fold. Fans will recall Lamonica penned their 1978 hit “Tell Me Your Plans,” which brought the band considerable success, particularly in the Netherlands, where Rome 56 continues to tour regularly alongside dates in New York and the UK. John Piccolo contributed most recently on recordings and videos with Frank’s Museum, Mike West and Caren Messing. Annie Golden dedicates her participation to John Rost, Jr. “JR” – friend, filmmaker, photographer and Shirts archivist whom we lost in 2023.
Later this year, a 7” vinyl single of “Move On Groove On” c/w “Deux Royale” will be released via Think Like A Key Music, a fitting addition to their eclectic series featuring the likes of Andy Bown, Blossom Toes, and Arthur Brown.
“Move On Groove On” / “Deux Royale” is available digitally on May 31st, with the limited edition 7” vinyl to follow later this year.
Social Media – The Shirts Fan Page – Facebook:https://tlak.rocks/theshirts
Stream/Pre-order link:https://tlak.rocks/moveongrooveon
