Aotearoa’s Arahi delivers outstanding debut EP, REVELATOR
Rising Aotearoa artist Arahi has today released the outstanding debut EP REVELATOR, as well as the anthemic new single ‘Everything’s About To Change’.
+ anthemic new single ‘Everything’s About To Change’
+ tickets available for Oct 30 show in Hawkes Bay HERE
Rising Aotearoa artist Arahi has today released the outstanding debut EP REVELATOR, as well as the anthemic new single ‘Everything’s About To Change’.
Also announced today is the live theatre performance of the REVELATOR EP taking place on October 30. With its maiden performance taking place at the Toitoi Opera House in Hawkes Bay, a full performance of actors and a 9-piece band will bring the REVELATOR EP to life as part of the Hawkes Bay Arts Festival.
Listen to REVELATOR HERE
Delicate moments of reflection and sonic intimacy swell into full and theatrical arrangements in many of REVELATOR’s tracks, all carried by Arahi’s warm vocal tones and carefully crafted songwriting. There’s no doubt today's release marks a significant milestone in the artist's career, with Arahi explaining: “REVELATOR is the first work of mine that allows me to intertwine a narrative through multiple songs.”
“My ambition to work and create thematically has been evident throughout past releases but can now be embraced and displayed more extensively. The four tracks that make up the EP have been road-tested through years of festivals and tours like waves carving away at a cliffside, shaping the songs into how they’re presented to you on this EP.”
REVELATOR was recorded at Roundhead Studios and produced by Dave Khan. The EP was mixed by Steven Marr, and mastered at KOG Studio by Chris Chetland.
Also out today is the nostalgic new single ‘Everything’s About To Change’, which explores themes of longing, hope and perseverance as it dreamily recounts an epic tale of two change-makers.
“Musically I often find myself artistically looking to the past to reveal a path forward, and this song is drenched in that sort of nostalgia,” says Arahi. “‘Everything’s About To Change’ lurks in a dark 80’s alley, clutching its big drum sound, eerie synths, and arena ready guitar solo. It’s about creating the change you’re desperately wanting to see in the world; and depending on your perspective or situation, it acts as either reassurance or a warning.”
Listen to 'Everything’s About To Change’ HERE
To celebrate the release of today's debut EP, Arahi will be performing at the Toitoi Opera House on October 30, as part of the Hawkes Bay Arts Festival. Accompanied by a 9 piece band, the tracks from the REVELATOR will be performed as they were recorded, while incorporating original theatre performances that will tie in the narrative of the EP.
“As an example of the predicted longevity and endurance of the EP, a REVELATOR script has been written in collaboration with wordsmith Rosheen FitzGerald,” says Arahi. “Hawkes Bay will host its maiden performance with actors and full band accompaniment, conveying REVELATOR to its true potential through sound and vision.”
Tickets available HERE
Although not a household name (yet!), he has built a reputation as a bona fide artistic soul, who juxtaposes classic and contemporary sound with an eclectic, eccentric band. Always with a flair for the theatrical, he continues to push the boundaries of indie music and leaves his audience wanting more.
Absorb the sounds and storytelling of Arahi through this stunning debut EP. As Arahi says: “I hope listeners allow these songs a chance to live with them - at home, in their cars, on the bus. Connect them to their own moments and memories. They belong to the listener now.”
Listen to REVELATOR HERE
REVELATOR EP tracklist
Everything’s About To Change
The Worst Is Yet To Come
REVELATOR performed live in theatre
Hawkes Bay Arts Festival
Sunday October 30 - Toitoi Opera House - TICKETS HERE
Find Arahi:
Facebook / Instagram / Website
Spotify / YouTube / Apple Music
USA-based Miriam Clancy shares "Kamikaze Angels", anthemic track off new record, Black Heart
“Kamikaze Angels”, Miriam Clancy's first release in three years is a soaring, rousing song, a nod to the 90s through a lens of 2020 clarity.
New album Black Heart out 13 January 2023
“Kamikaze Angels”, Miriam Clancy's first release in three years is a soaring, rousing song, a nod to the 90s through a lens of 2020 clarity. The song oscillates between loud-quiet-loud moments, the chorus rising to a hook, a powerful sing-at-the-top-of-your-lungs moment. Miriam says, "The chorus sings itself, propelling up to a maximum finish. And my beautiful wildling kids sing the last line with me which allows a fleeting childlike approach to the world, as it's always better seen that way. I love this song, it feels naked and alive, primal. And unafraid like pulling a thorn from an angry lion's paw."
Announcing her new album with the release of Kamikaze Angels sets the stage for the subsequent releases leading up to Miriam's new record, Black Heart. "To lead with this song feels like a show of cards, a challenge: it declares how I will proceed to address the dark stuff on my album, the arcs and depths of big feelings and horror," she says.
Miriam wrote Kamikaze Angels after moving from New Zealand to Queens NY, when she was finding her feet in a new land, caught between two countries and feeling at a loss. She found it hard to step outside. Contemplating her depression, she saw that picking the wrong path leads to a worse array of options, and on it goes - until you find yourself unrecognisable. The frequent global suicide bombings, New York-based hate crimes and frightening political movements in America mobilised her. She says "I was thinking about the origins and the path of a terrorist and their co-option, corrupted and weaponized for a cause, which seemed to be usually through an immense vacuum of need for meaningful connection and to be seen, heard, to belong. From one human grappling with an untethered feeling of emotional exile to another who may be weighing up their paths, I wrote this song for you."
Kamikaze Angels drops on Wednesday 26 October 2023 across all streaming services.
The video for Kamikaze Angels was filmed around the city in Minneapolis, where there were still palpable pockets of the George Floyd protests, signs and murals on the walls, calling for change. It was heavy and immediate, like being in the eye of a storm.
This sense of uprising and social justice aligned with what Miriam could best channel from growing up as a GenX in New Zealand, from the 1990s - the scene at skateparks.
Miriam says, "I am an average skateboarder myself and love how anti-establishment skating is, so when Rubens de Mello (director) suggested a skatepark, I was down. There is something refreshing and righteous about the 90's alternative scene I came up in that I am thrilled to throw back to; there's a raw approach in the emotion and language of the music that I love. Also, as I'm a Gen X slacker, I am ok with not fitting in, so whatever."
The bridge section of Kamikaze Angels features the head stocking and dripping paint, emulating how it would feel to extract yourself from the toxic mindset laid out in the song. "It took an eternity and 15 shampoos to get the black paint out my hair, which was quite alarming," she says. But she got there in the end, and the result of the shoot is a magnificent homage to 90s alternative music through a 2022 lens of a Generation X songwriter extraordinaire.
Kenya Boerman makes her debut with empowering teen anthem ‘Let Go’
Hawkes Bay singer-songwriter Kenya Boerman has today released her debut single ‘Let Go’ - an empowering song that takes the listener through a gamut of emotions and will have you tapping your toes.
Hawkes Bay singer-songwriter Kenya Boerman has today released her debut single ‘Let Go’ - an empowering song that takes the listener through a gamut of emotions and will have you tapping your toes.
LISTEN HERE
Kenya has been turning heads since appearing in the Hawkes Bay Smoke Free Rockquest 2020 solo/duo competition. She then went on to impress the judges in The Breeze Live Lounge competition earlier this year, winning top prize for ‘Let Go’.
Winning the competition saw Kenya offered the opportunity to spend the day in the studio with esteemed engineer John Garcia, recording an original song. That song was ‘Let Go’, which she’d written months earlier for her performance at Rockquest.
“At the time I was under a bit of pressure to write a new song because Rockquest was just around the corner. With only one week to go, I spent every night polishing and touching up little details in time for the performance.”
Kenya knew this was the song she wanted to take to John to record. “Although I had several other originals, 'Let Go' continued to be my favourite,” she says of the song, which has an empowering message.
“It’s about wanting to take some time away from the world; being able to forget about all the stress and worries happening in my life. There were a lot of emotions flying around and some uncertainty about making the right or wrong decisions. At times I just want to hit pause, turn around, slam the door and walk away from all the crap,” says Kenya.
The song blends various genres, such as folk, rock, swing and country; and while it taps into sadness, exhaustion and anger, it’s cleverly presented with upbeat and catchy production, which conjures up the youthful feeling of living life to the fullest and the freedom of not giving a care in the world.
“I love using my music to connect with people who are going through the same feelings and challenges that I am,” says Kenya.
‘Let Go’ was produced by Thomas Rede and recorded, mixed and mastered by John.
It marks the beginning of an exciting journey ahead for Kenya.
“I’m currently working on several new pieces, experimenting with funky acoustic, soft rock and hints of soul and blues sounds. There is definitely more to come, so watch this space!”
FIND KENYA
INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | WEBSITE
Barry Saunders and The Warratahs release new single and video - Silver Train
The Warratahs have released their new single ‘Silver Train’, as a tribute to their drummer of 20 years, Michael Knapp.
When The Warratahs went into the studio to record their new single "Silver Train”, it was the last time the band would play together with drummer of 20 years, Micheal Knapp.
He passed away unexpectedly a few days later.
“We had all been together for over 20 years, and this was wrenching blow, very unexpected. However, we decided we wanted to release this as a tribute, and to help us say goodbye to him” ( Barry Saunders)
36 years ago The Warratahs played, what turn out to be, the first of many nights at Wellington’s Cricketers Arms Hotel. The band quickly had an audience and they also found a sound of their own with a stripped back band playing a brand of country/ folk with the fire of 50’s style rock and roll.
Based around Barry Saunders voice and songs and Nik Brown’s ability to set the music alight with his violin, this has remained the landscape of the Warratahs sound.
To date, the band have released 9 Studio albums, which include some of New Zealand’s most loved classic songs. Songs that became the forerunners to the Americana sound that is so popular in New Zealand today.
Listen to “ Maureen” and “Hands On My Heart”
The Warratahs current line up is:
Barry Saunders, Nick Brown, Nick Theobald and Alan Norman
Silver Train was recorded at Massey Studios, Wellington. Engineered by Mike Gibson.
Filmed at Loho Studios Christchurch.
The Warratahs are part of The Gore Country Music Club’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations,
Playing at the Gore Town and Country Club Oct 20th.
Find The Warratahs : Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Facebook| Bandcamp
Challenging the norm Ezra Phoenix releases gorgeous new RnB pop song + video ‘FOMO’
Porirua-based Samoan artist Ezra Phoenix has today released his gorgeous, and fearless, new RnB pop single + video ‘FOMO’ - and you’ll have FOMO (fear of missing out) if you miss this!
Porirua-based Samoan artist Ezra Phoenix has today released his gorgeous, and fearless, new RnB pop single + video ‘FOMO’ - and you’ll have FOMO (fear of missing out) if you miss this!
Listen to ‘FOMO’ HERE
From the moment you hear Ezra’s powerful voice and warm harmonies, you’ll be hooked on ‘FOMO’. An impressive artist with a confident sound, Ezra Phoenix is passionate about promoting Samoan language/culture and normalising gender and sexuality narratives within Pāsifika communities.
“‘FOMO’s about a boy obsessing over another boy he just met,” says Ezra, “but because of societal pressures, he’s not able to express his feelings out loud.
“I’m now writing from a place of fearlessness, seeking to challenge expectations placed on Pacific Island boys about exploring their sexuality. Expectations from family, the church and community, all centre around the heterosexual norm of being masculine and forming relationships with the opposite sex. These expectations leave no room for one to explore and discover their sexuality or express their identity safely and without judgment or being ostracised. These expectations perpetuate toxic masculinity, increase anxiety and loss of self, and ultimately cause internal suffering for young boys who feel trapped under these societal pressures within Pacific Island communities. Sexuality is individual, unique, special, and is part of our identity.”
‘FOMO’ was expertly recorded and mixed by producer Toby Lloyd at Tiny Triumph Recordings and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studios. It was created with the support of NZOA Funding.
Also being released at 7pm October 21 is the ‘FOMO’ music video. Filled with Pacific iconography and symbolism, the use of traditional and contemporary Samoan costume and ceremonial items, the video is calling for more awareness and acknowledgement of LGBTQI+ individuals and their experiences within Pacific Island communities.
Watch the ‘FOMO’ video HERE
Imagined by Ezra, the video was brought to life by Studio Halfgray’s Ben Stewart and William Cho; set designer Daniel Kingston and production assistant Tasha Tziakis; and three beautiful contemporary and traditional Samoan costumes designed and styled by Masi Measina’s Masi Smith.
‘FOMO’ is a stunning song with a powerful message. Don’t miss out - find, follow and listen to Ezra Phoenix now!
1 Drop Nation announces long-awaited debut album + releases feel-good banger ‘Runaway’
Ōtautahi six-piece 1 Drop Nation have today released their feel-good summer single ‘Runaway’ and announced the date for their long-awaited, much-anticipated debut album.
Ōtautahi six-piece 1 Drop Nation have today released their feel-good summer single ‘Runaway’ and announced the date for their long-awaited, much-anticipated debut album.
‘Runaway’ is about getting away with the one you love, and it’s an absolute banger. It’s a song that brings all the good vibes, hooking you in for a sing-along. It’s set to be a summer hit. Following on from singles ‘The Children’ and ‘Groove Show’ - this is the final teaser before the Debut Album drops on 1 December.
“Life is a whirlwind and sometimes we forget to take a minute and enjoy the company of who we are doing life with,” says lead singer Kanei Johnson (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu). “This song is about getting away with that special someone and revitalising the love that brought you together in the first place - ‘Let's forget all the troubles and worries and just do us’ We just want to create some real feel-good music that helps people connect to the songs and the lyrics. We all need a break sometimes, right?”
1 Drop Nation have been working on their album for the past year at Surgery Studios with Dr Lee Prebble - and going off their three releases so far - it’s going to be a go-to album for summer 22-23! Lucky Christchurch audiences are going to be treated to the album live at this year's ZM Electric Avenue - which includes some of Aotearoa music’s biggest names.
Since coming on the scene, 1 Drop Nation have played some epic festivals, completed a national tour, and supported some of Aotearoa’s finest acts. Band Members: include Marc (drums), Dru (bass, backing vocals), Derin (keyboards, backing vocals / Nga Tai Ki Torere), Paerau (guitar / Ngāi Tahu, Te Arawa, Ngā Puhi), Burke (guitar / Ngā Puhi, Te Ātiawa) and Kanei (lead vocals / Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu). This group of musicians make music that brings people together, so join the movement and follow 1 Drop Nation!
LISTEN HERE
WATCH
Bad1 new single press release
Otara’s very own Bad1 has released his latest single ‘Caught In The Mix’, a heavy hitting drill song produced by Sprout and NTGotBeats. Sampling Charlie XCX’s ‘Good Ones’, creating a juxtaposition with Bad1’s name, the grimey instrumental has everything to perfectly complimenting Bad1’s strong delivery.
Otara’s very own Bad1 has released his latest single ‘Caught In The Mix’, a heavy hitting drill song produced by Sprout and NTGotBeats. Sampling Charlie XCX’s ‘Good Ones’, creating a juxtaposition with Bad1’s name, the grimey instrumental has everything to perfectly complimenting Bad1’s strong delivery.
Starting off the song with a shoutout to the Southside (South Auckland), Bad1 tells the story of what he sees in the neighbourhood. Calling out those that get ‘Caught in the Mix’ of the dangerous lifestyle that young people in South Auckland, Bad1 targets those individuals who lack the experience and understanding of their activities.
“I’ve been through the stories that I tell in my music, the songs reflect what I have seen and what my friends and family have had to experience. It gets difficult because lines are blurred and some people aren’t ready for the responsibility of feeding off the streets, this is what this song is about.” - Bad1 on his song ‘Caught In The Mix’.
Having been featured in multiple editorial playlists on both Spotify and Apple Music for his previous release, Bad1 is continuing to build on the steady momentum he has gained since releasing his first commercial single. Looking forward to the rest of the year, listeners can expect a couple more strong releases as he prepares to drop his debut EP in early 2023.
Stream ‘Caught In The Mix’ by Bad1 on all streaming services, here. Follow Bad1 on Instagram @bad1bad1_
K I M B R A ANNOUNCES UPCOMING ALBUM ‘A RECKONING’ RELEASES NEW SINGLE & VIDEO “SAVE ME”
Today, two-time Grammy-award winning artist Kimbra announces her upcoming studio album A Reckoning. To coincide with the announcement, she has debuted new single “Save Me” alongside a music video directed by Yvan Fabing.
Today, two-time Grammy-award winning artist Kimbra announces her upcoming studio album A Reckoning. To coincide with the announcement, she has debuted new single “Save Me” alongside a music video directed by Yvan Fabing.
LISTEN & WATCH “Save Me” HERE
Set for release in 2023, A Reckoning is primed to be a reflective record capturing the macro reckonings that impact our world around environment, race, feminism health and patriarchy through the eyes of the archteypal Mother. But at the heart of her record is the war with the micro reckonings that Kimbra faces internally. It’s the most sonically autonomous and confessionally raw she has ever been, finding influence in everything from modern movie soundtracks to electronic and industrial worlds. The album was first imagined in 2018, during Kimbra’s tour with co-producer Ryan Lott of the band Son Lux, who recently scored A24’s Everything Everywhere All At Once.
On “Save Me,” Kimbra shares a moment of deep yearning set on a bed of unsettling warped pianos. She explores how two internal realities can be present at once : chaos and contemplation, rage and still life-force. Inspired by a singular moment, she searches her insecurities with hopes that someone will save her from herself.
Made with the support of NZ On Air, the track is brought to new light in the music video that shows the pop singer in Iceland, traversing dangerous, surreal terrains as she seeks to heal her relationship to self, to other women, and finally to our Mother Earth.
More to come from Kimbra.
About Kimbra:
New Zealand-born pop star and two-time Grammy Award winning tour de force Kimbra is
readying her fourth studio album, A Reckoning, produced in tandem with Son Lux’s Ryan Lott.
This is just the latest chapter in a series of Kimbra’s overall career success: the experimental pop performer’s 2011 debut, Vows, bowed at No. 14 on the Billboard Top 200 and was certified platinum in Australia and New Zealand. She received Best Female Artist two years in a row at the ARIA Music Awards and took home 5 New Zealand Tui Awards including Album of The Year in 2012. That same year, she exploded into the public consciousness with “Somebody That I Used To Know,” a duet with Gotye that earned her two Grammy Awards for “Record of the Year” and “Best Pop Duo/Group Performance,” as well as reaching No. 1 on global charts (across 18 countries) and selling more than 13 million copies.
Her 2014 sophomore record, The Golden Echo, highlighted her eclectic style with a diverse set of collaborations from Thundercat, Omar-Rodriguez Lopez of The Mars Volta, Bilal, and John Legend. Likewise, her third LP, 2018’s Primal Heart, saw her touring with the likes of Beck, Odesza and David Byrne. Kimbra has performed on TV shows such as Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Last Call with Carson Daly, Late Show with David Letterman and Late Night with Seth Meyers, as well as performing at festivals such as Coachella, Austin City Limits and more.
Moving forward, Kimbra hopes listeners will find catharsis and connection on A Reckoning,
whether they are contending with change in their own lives or processing shifts in the world
around them.
For more information on Kimbra, please visit: