Panic Shack Bring Punk Energy, Humor, and Community to New York City
It was an incredible day to be in New York City. The weather was perfect, the streets were overflowing with energy, and the city felt alive. Knicks fans packed the streets celebrating Game 5 of the playoffs (Knicks in 5!!!), while others in jerseys made their way toward the World Cup match happening in New Jersey. Everywhere you looked, there was a sense of excitement and camaraderie — complete strangers sharing in these little moments of collective joy!
That feeling followed me throughout the entire day. On my train ride home, the Knicks game was still going, and a group of strangers and I gathered around the only phone that had service in the station to watch the final moments of the Knicks’ incredible victory together. For those few minutes, we weren’t strangers anymore, we were just people sharing a moment.
That same sense of connection was felt the whole evening at Panic Shack’s first New York show, debuting at Mercury Lounge. The Cardiff, Wales punk band is comprised of Sarah Harvey (vocals), Meg Fretwell (guitar), Romi Lawrence (guitar), and Emily Smith (bass), with Nick Doherty-Williams on drums.
When I first heard about the band, I hadn’t even heard their music. More than a year ago, they went viral on TikTok for their circle dance to Janet Jackson’s “I miss you much”, choreographed by JezFever. I was immediately drawn to them. They looked like exactly the kind of people you’d want to grab a drink with: fun, genuine, and completely themselves.
Then I heard their music, and it was an immediate “hell yes” from me. Their angsty punk sound paired with honest, relatable lyrics about the struggles women face resonated with me instantly. I couldn’t wait to experience them live. After they released their self-titled debut album in 2025, I hoped I’d get the chance to see them, and that wish finally came true when they brought their tour to the States.
BEST DRESSED GHOST
The night kicked off with New Jersey band Best Dressed Ghost, who immediately brought the energy. Their guitarists jumped, threw their hair around, and even stepped into the audience to play among the crowd. Their high-energy blend of surf rock and punk was the perfect way to start the night.
PANIC SHACK
Before Panic Shack even began their set, their connection with fans was already clear. While finishing setup, the band paused to take selfies with fans who approached them. It was a small moment, but one that perfectly reflected the approachable, down-to-earth energy they carried all night.
They opened their set with one of their biggest songs, “Gok Wan,” a sharp and humorous take on the absurd pressures of diet and exercise culture. As Sarah delivered the biting lyrics, the other three members were behind her doing squats while still playing their instruments. It was such a playful visual moment that perfectly captured the balance Panic Shack brings to their music: serious messages delivered with a sense of humor and fun.
During “Jiu Jits You,” the band created another unforgettable moment. The four members lined up, bending forward and linking together before moving back in unison during the end of the song. The crowd absolutely erupted. I knew something was coming and tried to position myself for a shot, but as soon as it happened, everyone’s phones went into the air. It was one of those moments where even as a photographer, you just appreciate being there to witness it.
Another standout moment came during “Do Something,” when three of the guitarists laid on the floor playing with their legs in the air while Sarah walked behind them, delivering the lyrics through the space between them. It was chaotic, hilarious, and completely Panic Shack.
The final song of the night, “Pocket,” brought another memorable moment. The song highlights the everyday essentials women often struggle to carry when going out, and during the chorus, Sarah stepped into the crowd to have fans chant along with her.
I was focused on adjusting my settings and trying to capture a shot of her in the crowd in the low light. Then I looked up and realized she was standing directly in front of me, microphone extended toward my face.
I’m embarrassed to admit I did not know the lyrics well enough at that moment. I froze, made what I’m sure was a very obvious “oh no” face, and awkwardly shrugged. I was mortified. After the set, I went up to Sarah to introduce myself and apologize for completely fumbling the moment — but she was incredibly kind and genuinely down to earth.
I now know the correct response should have been: “Vape! Phone! Keys! Lip Gloss!”
Throughout the entire angst-filled set, Panic Shack looked like they were having the absolute time of their lives on stage. They managed to balance sharp social commentary with humor, movement, and a genuine sense of joy. Rather than just perform the songs, they created an experience where we could all join in their rally cry.
And by the end of the night, my first impression was completely confirmed: Panic Shack really are the kind of band that feels like a group of people you’d want to grab a drink with. Except now, they’re also a band I can’t wait to see again.