Friends, buddies… Shams! The newly formed teenage rock band The Shams is starting to make its first appearances on social media. Consisting of singer and bassist Livia J., drummer Seb H., Hamza K. on rhythm guitar, and Eva C. playing lead guitar, the band is set to perform in one of Stockholm’s most famous parks, Kungsträdgården, on March 14th. A group brought together by the magical art of music and a strong connection to Ireland, have known each other throughout high school and had the opportunity to play with one another on several occasions, yet only formed The Shams in early December 2025. With the goal of creating “something that inspires or means something to people”, the teenage rockstars are ready to rock every stage they encounter. Here’s all you need to know to claim your spot as an ‘OG’ The Shams fan!
“You know that feeling you get in your chest when you hear your favourite song? It’s something so unique and irreplaceable that can only be created through music,” says Livia J.. Being heavily influenced by the New York music scene, artists such as Julian Casablancas from The Strokes, or the band Interpol, have been sources of inspiration for her for as long as she can remember. The Arctic Monkeys’ influence acts as a common trait between the lead guitarist and drummer, where Matt Helders and Alex Turner’s creative and unique artistry are adored by both The Shams’ members.
In the same way these musicians have been idols for them, they want to reciprocate that feeling to their audience, as Livia J shares: “Someone’s connection with their favourite band or their favourite song is so personal and sacred, and if we could be that artist for someone, we’ve achieved everything we could have asked for.”
Knowing and understanding the artist is a crucial part of the listening experience and learning to appreciate the art. This is why discovering, not only their biggest musical inspirations as people but their favourite songs too, will allow the listener to relate on a whole other level. Hard To Explain, November Rain, I’m Set Free, Drain You, and Aerials are some of the band members’ favourite songs. For as long as they can remember, being in a band was what they wanted, to play shows and perform where the music speaks for itself. The Shams’ vocalist and bassist, Livia, vividly remembers “watching live performances of [her] favourite bands and just thinking ‘These are the coolest, most talented people [she’s] ever seen’.”
Though their first gig will primarily consist of covers, the band has many ambitions and goals to incorporate their original songs into future shows as well! Livia J. and Eva C. are a power duo when it comes to songwriting and instrumentals. Livia has a strong poetic and lyrical talent; she shares that “Eva is a killer riff writer too, so [they] complement each other.” Having heard snippets of songs from rehearsals outside the Norra Latin music room, it is safe to say that their love for music is definitely heard and conveyed in their art or seen in their stage presence when performing. Their joint passion is radiated through every melody.
On March 14th, this Saturday, The Shams will perform their first ever gig as a band to celebrate an important day in Irish culture and history, St Patrick’s Day! According to the band, on this day, “you can spend time with the most wonderful Irish people, hear live music, get your faces painted. We will have a 30-minute set, so feel welcome to come! It’s free!” And- it is guaranteed that they will (sham)rock the stage!
Below is the livestream of the Saint Patrick´s Day Event in Kungstradgarden, where The Shams will play and other performances will occur.
