Electrifying Punk Energy: Shanghai Treason at Nightrain, Bradford

Review and Photos By Paul McWilliams

It had been a long time since I set foot in Nightrain, and I realized how much I missed the place the moment I walked through the doors. The venue, known for its intimate yet electric atmosphere, was buzzing with excitement, and the energy in the room was palpable. September 24th, 2024, was destined to be a special night, and Shanghai Treason delivered a performance that more than lived up to the hype.

Shanghai Treason, a band that combines the unexpected pairing of banjo and punk, was a new discovery for me. However, based on the crowd’s reaction, it was clear they’ve built quite a following over the years. As soon as they stepped on stage, the audience erupted in a massive cheer, setting the tone for what would be a wild ride from start to finish.

The band opened with Wildfire, and right from the first note, the energy was contagious. The crowd immediately started dancing, jumping, and singing along, creating an atmosphere of pure, uninhibited fun. What struck me most was how effortlessly the band blended punk’s raw edge with the more traditional twang of the banjo. It’s a combination that sounds surprising on paper but works beautifully in practice. The banjo added an unexpected brightness to the punk anthems, giving their music a unique sound that made them stand out.

Shanghai Treason gave no sign of letting up all night. The band followed Wildfire with Textile Town and Tender Hooks, keeping the crowd moving and singing every word. The energy never dropped for a moment, which is a testament to their musical prowess and ability to engage a crowd.

Sam, the lead vocalist, was a standout presence on stage. His rapport with the crowd was nothing short of fantastic. He wasn’t just performing; he was connecting, making everyone in the room feel like they were a part of something bigger. His stage banter between songs was full of humor and warmth, which contrasted with the band’s gritty punk sound. His voice carried both power and melody, striking the right balance between intensity and approachability. It’s rare to find a frontman who can handle such a diverse sound and still keep the crowd so engaged. The rest of the band was equally tight, with each member contributing to the overall energy of the night. The banjo, in particular, gave the set an added layer of excitement. You don’t often see a banjo in a punk band, but somehow Shanghai Treason has made it their signature. The instrument wasn’t just a gimmick; it was an integral part of their sound, adding a unique texture that made songs like Hangman and Pallbearer stand out.

One of the highlights of the night was Gatekeeper, a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s fusion of punk grit and folk spirit. The chorus had everyone shouting along, and the breakdown saw the mosh pit open up with even more fervor. It was a moment that showed just how powerful Shanghai Treason’s music can be when paired with an audience that’s completely invested in the experience.

The setlist was a rollercoaster of fast-paced anthems and more contemplative tracks, each song seamlessly flowing into the next. Tracks like Lighthouse and Emerald showcased the band’s range, while On The Ropes and Hero’s Welcome turned the intensity back up to maximum. One of the night’s stand-out moments came with Drowning Heart, a slower, more emotionally charged track that still managed to pack a punch.

The energy reached its peak during their final song, Freeman on the Land. As the night came to a close, the crowd was still singing along, unwilling to let the moment end. It’s rare to see a band that can keep the crowd so energized from start to finish, but Shanghai Treason did just that, leaving everyone in the room wanting more. Shanghai Treason’s performance at Nightrain was nothing short of exhilarating. Their unique blend of banjo-infused punk, coupled with their electric stage presence, created an unforgettable experience. It’s clear why they’ve built such a loyal following over the years. They bring something fresh and exciting to the punk scene, and it was a privilege to witness their energy firsthand. For anyone who hasn’t yet experienced Shanghai Treason live, you’re missing out on one of the most unique and entertaining bands out there right now.