Best of NYC #32: The Shake, Live at Bowery Electric, June 22

We continue our "Best of NYC Countdown", covering every day one of the artists that made our Year End Best of NYC list (a chart compiled by a jury comprised of local bloggers, music writers, promoters, record store personnel and DJs).

New York quartet, The Shake, have been quaking the city’s music scene in recent months, landing a top spot on The Deli’s “Best of NYC” poll. Their December record release, “The Shake Go Crazy,” is nothing short of pure rock ‘n roll with catching riffs, singable choruses, and spirited guitar solos that embody the youthful rebelliousness that is missing from many acts today. Distinguishing themselves from the typical rock outfit with Jon Merkin’s unmistakable vocals and Eliad Shapiro’s gripping choices in guitar progressions, The Shake also adopt a heavy blues swagger and metal attitude on highlighted tracks, “Got No Soul,” “Merry Musket” and “Galleries,” open “Your Idols” with a cappella flair, and demonstrate great musicianship by collaborating with Matt Butler (Reckless Sons) on “Time Bomb,” Ezra Huleatt (Black Taxi) on “Pop Goes the…,” and Tash Neal (The London Souls) on “Merry Musket (Reprise).” Invigorating on record and on stage, The Shake are ones to watch on the rock ‘n roll Richter scale. www.wearetheshake.com – Meijin Bruttomesso