The Shivas Update a Classic Rock Song Made Famous by Nirvana on Their Cover of “Love Buzz”

After 17 years of making music together, Portland alt-rock band The Shivas are still going strong by the sound of their newest single and video, “Love Buzz.” A cover of the 1969 original by Dutch band Shocking Blue, which Nirvana famously covered as their debut single, the song is just one off vol. 2 of a series where they cover some of their favorite songs.

While the song’s two versions are somewhat different, with one coming from the psych rock era and the other at the start of the grunge era, The Shivas pay tribute to both and reach a nice middle ground that updates the classic just enough for today’s ears.

Singer Kristin Leonard’s crooner approach to “Love Buzz” is similar to how Mariska Veres first sang the track all the way back in the 60s, going as far as to use her original lyrics rather than the alterations Kurt Cobain made. But, some remnants of grunge are left behind, with the guitar reaching that same level of intensity more reserved for higher intensity tracks instead of the psychedelic-leaning direction fueling The Shivas’ take.

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Matters are kept simple in the music video, showing the four performing in an empty room with some slight psychedelic lighting. During most of the video, Leonard stares straight into the camera in a confrontational manner, making sure you hear the “Love Buzz,” as is repeated in the chorus.

Considering The Shivas have been around since 2006 should be a testament to how the Pacific Northwest band’s music has stood the test of time so far. In shorter periods, other groups would have most likely changed lineups numerous times to the point where their songs sound nothing like how they used to in their inception. But The Shivas have kept the core three members constant, with only their guitarist having been part of the band since 2017.

In a month, they have a performance at the free Happy Sundays music festival in Long Beach and an EP consisting of covers releasing a week from now. And with their selection of songs ranging from Ritchie Valens to Nirvana, there will surely be some surprises.

Words: David Sosa

“Love Buzz” by The Shivas is out on all streaming services. For more on new music and live shows, including their spot at the free Happy Sundays music festival on August 27th, follow them on Instagram, Bandcamp, and their website.