Doomed Confessionary: Murray Shaw (Government Pest)
Government Pest is a heavy/groove/stoner metal trio from Palmerston North, New Zealand featuring former memers of Turbostill, Hellborne, Neckstretchers, 7.62 Short, The Henderdons, Scourge Of Tussin, Master Cheese Maker & more.
Formed 2014, Government Pest are Kristov Raven (vocals, guitar), Murray Shaw (bass, vocals) and Max Guy (drums).
The band released three EPs, »Government Pest« (2016), »Disengage« (2019) and the most recent »Vol. 3« (2024).
Can you say a few words about your band?
We are a heavy grooves band from Palmerston North, Aotearoa, New Zealand: Kristov Raven – Vocals/Guitar, Murray Shaw – Bass/Vocals, Max Guy – Drums.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Getting noticed amongst the thousands of bands also putting out good music.
What can you be most proud of so far?
Our most recent music release a five track EP called »Vol. 3« which is our third release.
What was your biggest regret?
No regrets, keep moving forward.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
We recently did a short promotional tour for our new EP which went well.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
Musicians that don’t support the music scene that supports them.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Dark Tranquility, Drown In Sulphur, Jinjer, Dieth, Entombed, Imperial Slave, The Halo Effect, Carach Angren, Katatonia, Salmonella Dub.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Support the scene if you want the scene to support you, too many musicians only go to gigs when they are playing.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Dopamine.
Can you say something more about current music scene in Palmerston North?
Papaioea, Palmerston North, New Zealand has always had a good music scene due to various venues and in particular the community funded Creative Sounds aka The Stomach which is a low cost and high quality recording space, rehearsal rooms, and all ages gig venue which caters to musicians young and old and from all backgrounds. This has continued to nurture musicians in our area.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Sat 15th Feb, The Royal, Palmerston North with Hadees Drudge, FnCs, and Flowers of Hades
Sat 21st March The Stomach, Palmerston North with Seismic state and more.
Distortion Fest 2025 details TBC
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Continue to perform and record new music.
How can people best support your band?
Follow our socials: Facebook, Instagram, Bandcamp…
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Thanks for checking us out!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well