Calla of Ursa, formerly “Calla”, reveals a name metamorphosis as dramatic as the myth behind her new moniker. Like the nymph Callisto who was transformed into the Ursa Major constellation, Calla of Ursa has re‑cast herself in the ethereal, channeling her muses into a unique cinematic‑pop universe (or “Callaverse”) where the operatic and the orchestral collide with seismic bass.
To celebrate NZ Music Month, Calla will release 3 singles followed by a full album and kick off an album release tour - all in May! Her forthcoming album, Animal Reaction, marks the first full roar under the new name: lush strings and crystalline vocals soar over gritty electronic production, delivering mythic emotive swells and sub‑shaking depth. Calla tours the album in May/June across Aotearoa before moving overseas to the UK/Europe.
Calla of Ursa ignited a 17‑show national tour in 2023, opened Twisted Frequency 2024, and twice illuminated the LUMA Light & Sound Festival (Emerging Artist ’23, Sound Artist ’24). She also was awarded the 2022 Dame Malvina Major South Island Arts Excellence Award.
ABOUT THE ALBUM
“Animal Reaction” gives voice to the Mother, not just of humans but of the earth itself. A call of resistance and reclamation, the visceral soundscapes of the album speaks to the subjugation of women, indigenous peoples, animals, and the environment. Wrought from the very essence of feminine power, wisdom, and rage, the album channels the fury of Mother Earth herself into a fierce call for justice through cinematic swells, gentle folk piano riffs, and heavy hitting tribal pop beats.
Notable collaborations for the album include producers MISSY (Dead Run, To Be Sacred) and Lola (Animal Reaction, Face Me).
TOUR DATES
● Thursday 22nd May - Tāmaki Makaurau - Neck of the Woods
● Thursday 29th May - Whanganui - Ministry of Works
● Friday 30th May - Te Whanganui-a-Tara - Moon Bar
● Thursday 5th June - Ōtautahi - The Loons
● Friday 6th June - Ōtepoti - DropKicks
“The audience was stunned silent… Calla’s soprano is a thing of beauty, and her violin adds drama and edge.” - Marty Duda, 13th Floor (2024)