HAZ & MILOUX present ‘What U Do' ft. Diggy Dupé
Today, award winning Aotearoa duo Haz & Miloux release the second single from their forthcoming EP ‘Brunette' titled What U Do’ ft. Diggy Dupé.
Today, award winning Aotearoa duo Haz & Miloux release the second single from their forthcoming EP ‘Brunette' titled What U Do’ ft. Diggy Dupé.
"'What U Do' is about the decline of a relationship after seeing through the facade of someone's love to their toxic side" says Miloux who wrote the song with Haz. It was then up to multi-talented Tāmaki Makaurau artist Diggy Dupé to weave his honest and insightful verse into this laid back neo-soul track.
'What U Do' is the follow up to the first single 'Three' which was released in November 22. The debut single from their second EP 'Brunette' (due for release late summer 23') garnered great support from Spotify Editorial playlists such as Dinner Mood and R&B Feels. 'Three' was also playlisted across SRN, locking itself into number 2 in the bFM Top 10 with ongoing support from Dunedin's Radio1, as well as coming in at number 1 on the Radioscope Alternative Airplay Chart on December 16th.
Haz & Miloux kicked off their first summer show at the Morningside Live Block Party last weekend to a full house on stage at Big Fan. They'll be taking the stage again at Ori' 23 in Dunedin on February 25th in support of International hip-hop phenomenon Yung Gravy.
Diggy Dupé was top of the list for a feature when the pair were writing their new EP, with Diggy's verse providing deeper perspective to Miloux's words as she formulated the song. Both vocalists lean lyrically into the complexities of relationships, romantic and platonic and the choice we have to leave or stay, whilst letting the music further invoke the emotions in their story.
Miloux says of the writing of the song, "This track was another one of Haz's beats that I was immediately drawn to, and the music to me had a slightly darker overtone. I wrote the chords for the bridge the same day at his studio and thought this section really lent itself to the rhythmic choral backing vocals".
'Brunette’ will be the second EP from Haz & Miloux, following the 2019 release of EP ‘Blonde’. The pair achieved phenomenal success with their debut EP winning the 2020 Aotearoa Music Award for Best Soul/RnB Artist, and ‘Blonde’ was shortlisted for the 2020 Silver Scroll Awards. Their songs are a love letter to their influences, experiences and community.
'What U Do' ft. Diggy Dupé is out now, February 10th via New Zealand indie label Bigpop Records.
Revulva tune into the trouble with small-scene dating in punchy new single ‘This Town’
Popular Pōneke nine-piece band Revulva have today released their new dark and punchy single ‘This Town’.
Popular Pōneke nine-piece band Revulva have today released their new dark and punchy single ‘This Town’.
Listen to ‘This Town’ HERE
A tale of avoiding your ex in public and the lack of romantic anonymity in a small town, Revulva’s sound is a mix of soul, funk, pop and jazz, but ‘This Town’ might surprise some fans with its spoken word for the lead vocal, dark harmony, and an exciting percussion solo section at the end - known to the band as the “break up” section, as opposed to the typical “break down” section.
“‘This Town’ highlights our transformation as a band,” says band member Phoebe Johnson, “from light-hearted tales about hay fever and not being able to smoke – there is also darkness in our sound that we chose to lean into for this single while communicating the comedy of dating in a small town.”
A supergroup of talented musicians, Revulva is made up of - Phoebe Johnson (NOVA, Ebony Lamb), Lily Rose Shaw (Dawn Diver, The Gallery), Hector McLachlan (Raiden Freeman), Hayden Richardson (Dr. Reknaw), Lennox Grootjans (Hummucide, Len Blake), Toby Leman (Hummucide, The Gallery), Olivia Campion (Yumi Zouma, Mystery Waitress), Zane Hawkins (Dr. Reknaw, Zoe Moon) and Kaito Walley (TOI, Bret Mckenzie). Since 2020, the band have been regulars on the Wellington gig scene and, more recently, had their debut EP GIRL’S GOTTA EAT nominated for best EP at the 2022 Student Radio Network Awards.
‘This Town’ was recorded/mixed by Lee Prebble at Surgery Studios, then mastered by Downbeat Mastering, and the release couldn’t be more perfectly timed. The group is currently on their first Aotearoa nationwide ‘This Town Ain't Big Enough Tour’, with shows coming up in Tāmaki Makaurau, Leigh, and a spot at the Whanganui Welcome to Nowhere Festival.
Head to UTR for more tour info and tickets HERE
As well as their music that’ll get you movin’ and celebrated live shows, Revulva have an exciting ‘This Town’ video being released in March. So make sure you don’t miss a beat and follow them on their socials!
FIND REVULVA
Estère announces three-date fully choreographed Mākara Peak EP release tour!
Estère brings her beat-laden Mākara Peak EP to life on her upcoming release tour, featuring a choreographed show of incredible dancers, stunning outfits, saturated lights and a multitude of beats for three dance-filled performances.
Estère - Makara Peak EP Tour
25 March - Whammy Bar, Auckland
1 April - Meow, Wellington
21 April - Artworks Theatre, Waiheke Island
Estère brings her beat-laden Mākara Peak EP to life on her upcoming release tour, featuring a choreographed show of incredible dancers, stunning outfits, saturated lights and a multitude of beats for three dance-filled performances. Estère's live show is consistently exciting and explosive, as she envelopes the audience in a mesmerising mix of indie neo-soul vocal stylings, live instruments, sampled found sounds, and danceable rhythms for an unmissable night out.
Estère will be working with the exceptional director, choreographer and dancer Kayla Paige, who has choreographed for World of WearableArts, The X Factor NZ, and Pleasuredome The Musical, as well as music videos for Lorde and Kimbra, and so much more. Estère says, "Kayla was amazing to work with in WOW - she has such exciting creative and conceptual vision and her choreography is fire. I'm super excited to work with her again!" Estère will be joined by two professional dancers onstage, creating a fun and electric performance ensemble.
Mākara Peak has been embraced by discerning music circles in New Zealand and overseas. Charlotte Ryan (RNZ's Music 101) says "Mākara Peak is my favourite release from Estere to date." Undertheradar.co.nz calls first single BPM "a rhythmic and textural treat for the senses," and about Estère's second single, "Oh Well", Sniffers says it's "a soothing soulful pop fusion... Estère speaking to a disenfranchised generation with a smirk and a wink in her playful, tongue-in-cheek verses."
Click here to listen to Mākara Peak!
About Estère's role in World of WearableArt Awards Show, Malia Johnston, the Show Director of World Of Wearable Art, says "Estère joined the WOW team for our 2022 return season. We wanted to work and feature an artist who was NEXT LEVEL in terms of exuding creativity and transformative live performance skills. Estère was the perfect fit. Her music is fresh, empowering, energy-giving and future focused - she has a powerful and universal message. We wanted an artist that could embrace and exude the qualities of a female creative deity… Estère was incredible to work and collaborate with, she’s a super power on the stage with an exquisite voice, she's one of a kind - our audiences adored her!"
Tickets are on sale now from Undertheradar.co.nz and Moshtix.
DEVILSKIN ANNOUNCE 12 DATE NATIONAL TOUR THIS APRIL & MAY
New Zealand multi-platinum, independent rock artist DEVILSKIN make a welcome return to the live circuit with their LET ME BREATHE TOUR this April and May, playing 12 explosive dates nationwide.
New Zealand multi-platinum, independent rock artist DEVILSKIN make a welcome return to the live circuit with their LET ME BREATHE TOUR this April and May, playing 12 explosive dates nationwide.
Renowned for their kick-ass, blistering live shows, it’s been nearly two years since the band last toured the country, and they can’t wait to reconnect with their loyal, passionate Kiwi audience.
"We thought it was about time we came up for air", Devilskin bass guitarist Paul Martin enthuses via phone from a sandy Coromandel beach.
"It's important to take a moment to breathe, enjoy the moment and celebrate when you can. For this band, writing, recording and most especially, playing live shows, that's our air."
From Auckland to Invercargill, Devilskin look forward to delivering the high-energy, high-intensity performances they are known for, and always with a few surprises up their sleeves sure to get the crowd pumping for one hell of a party!
TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY AT 7AM FROM EVENTFINDA.CO.NZ & AAATICKETING.CO.NZ
As one of New Zealand’s most popular and hardest working bands, Devilskin enjoy a hugely solid fan base and over the years have garnered a formidable reputation for delivering excellence with their electrifying and energetic live performances.
It’s been a while since they have been out on the road, and for a band used to touring incessantly, it’s a thrill to be finally gearing up to reunite with their hard rock/metal fans and serve up some brand new material to go with their solid arsenal of banging tour hits.
"Yeah, we are bursting to do this tour. There will be some big nights with some of our favourite people, towns and venues.” Jen, Nic and Nail, Paul assures, can't wait.
"The band is sounding sharp, we haven’t been idle at all. We've been knuckled down working on some exciting new stuff that we're absolutely looking forward to sharing alongside some deep cuts and some party faves!”
Always conscious of the very special and unique bond they have with their fans, Devilskin value this connection, forged with sincerity and integrity over many years.
It’s this solid relationship with their fans that drives the band to be committed to delivering the best live show they can, and the band plan all elements of their tours with fan satisfaction top of the list.
A powerhouse band renowned for their killer live sets, formidable live energy, and compelling presence, a Devilskin audience knows what a phenomenal show they are in for.
These tickets will get snapped up quickly, so make sure you get in and secure your tickets now! Stay tuned for the announcement of the Special Guests supporting Devilskin.
DEVILSKIN LET ME BREATHE TOUR 2023
+ SPECIAL GUESTS to be announced
Friday 14 April, The Brownzy, Browns Bay
Saturday 15 April, Stadium Lounge, Mt Maunganui
Saturday 22 April, Waitara T&C Club, New Plymouth
Thursday 27 April, Bev Ridges On York, Napier
Friday 28 April, The Royal, Palmerston North
Friday 5 May, Tillermans, Invercargill
Saturday 6 May, Oamaru Club, Oamaru
Thursday 11 May, Caroline Bay Hall, Timaru
Friday 12 May, Ngaio Marsh Theatre, Christchurch
Saturday 13 May, Rattle N Hum, Nelson
Friday 19 May, The Factory, Hamilton
Saturday 20 May, Powerstation, Auckland*
TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY AT 7AM FROM EVENTFINDA.CO.NZ & AAATICKETING.CO.NZ
Limited VIP tickets will be available, and included in this exclusive package are the following items:
VIP early entrance (1 hour earlier than GA doors)
2 x song VIP performance
Meet n Greet with Devilskin
Photo opportunity with Devilskin
Early opportunity for Merch
Band on the rise Coast Arcade Release catchy new single ‘Highest Heights’
Indie pop-rock up-and-comers Coast Arcade are soaring to new heights with their latest single ‘Highest Heights’.
Indie pop-rock up-and-comers Coast Arcade are soaring to new heights with their latest single ‘Highest Heights’.
Following on from the release of their infectious debut single ‘Tattoo’ (#11 Hot NZ Singles Chart, RadioScope Most Added, MTV Upload), ‘Highest Heights’ is a fast-paced and moody song about how over-dramatic teenage love can be. “The song was written about that feeling you get when you're in an airport and see someone of a similar age to you. There is always this weird chemistry that you don’t get anywhere else,” explains lead singer/guitarist Bella Bavin, whose vocals are a stand-out on the track. “Teenagers can be so dramatic with how they love and insist they fall in love instantly. ‘Highest Heights’ lyrics are super over dramatic and almost corny to reflect that, but in a serious way.”
Coast Arcade is made up of Bella Bavin (vocals + lead guitar), brothers Chris (rhythm guitar) and Nate Tims (bass), and Thom Boynton (drums + backing vocals). ‘Highest Heights’ was recorded at Joel Little's Big Fan studio with engineer Noema Te Hau, mixed by Jono Pearce (The Beths), and made with the support of NZ On Air.
It is also accompanied by a music video that the band worked on with Dave Thompson and Imaginary Friends. “I think the deadpan look of the video creates a cool contrast to how emotional the song is supposed to be,” says Bella. “A few funny things happened on set. We had to record the majority of the video in double time, which was a real challenge, and it was hard to keep a straight face." Guitarist Chris adds that “it was the first time the band has shot a professionally produced video, and it was a really interesting experience. We all had fun and, despite the bugs, the power cuts and being in a pool until 1am, are stoked with the video!"
Having formed in early 2021 at high school, the band already have a solid fan base and are fast becoming regulars on the Aotearoa music scene. They have an impressive cv which includes opening for Aussie legends Bootleg Rascals and The Grogans, as well as kiwi icons The Beths and Princess Chelsea. They secured spots on the Rhythm and Vines festival and Spring City festival line-ups - alongside well-established acts such as Groove Armada, Zane Lowe and Ladyhawke.
Coast Arcade are definitely ones to watch!
TSENATE - ‘SUPERSTAR’
New Zealand-based R&B artist TSENATE releases her third single, ‘SUPERSTAR.’ The track is an intimate window into TSENATE’S life, showcasing her emotive songwriting and artistry.
TSENATE returns with her third single ‘SUPERSTAR’
New Zealand-based R&B artist TSENATE releases her third single, ‘SUPERSTAR.’ The track is an intimate window into TSENATE’S life, showcasing her emotive songwriting and artistry.
With influences ranging from alternative R&B artists such as Steve Lacy, H.E.R, SZA, and Cleo Soul, TSENATE creates a sound that is both nostalgic and modern. ‘SUPERSTAR’ is a perfect example of this, blending old-school R&B vibes with contemporary production.
‘SUPERSTAR’ details the story of a toxic relationship, where TSENATE reflects on being in the midst of a breakup. ”the person I was dating always called me a superstar, despite everything they’d put me through... It was hard to be angry at someone who was always cheering me on as a performer yet didn't love me for who I am” - TSENATE
Written by TSENATE, produced by Mazbou Q (UNCHAINED XL), and featuring guitar work by Maraky. This nostalgic R&B track takes you back to your first heartbreak - “The three of us sat down in Mazbou Q’s studio and worked to bring this intimate page of my diary to life, and I hope you can find parts of yourself in this song.” - TSENATE
‘SUPERSTAR’ is available for streaming on all major platforms. For more information on TSENATE and her upcoming releases, visit TSENATE's Linktree or follow her on social media.
“Black hair is a symbol of patience and beauty for me, and the black community as a whole”
“The concept of the music video come up as my cousin Maraky and I had big hair changes in the past year and I wanted to show how hair changes are a symbol of growth and new chapters in my life.”
“I often have to remind myself that just because I have it easier than other Black women with 4a, 4b, or 4c type hair doesn't mean I shouldn't value my experience as a curly-haired woman residing in the diaspora. As a child, I had a lot of trouble with this.”
Midwave Breaks New EP - Mind Made Up
Midwave Breaks showcase a broad sonic landscape with latest release. This latest offering is a conscious deep-dive, showcasing their wider songwriting scope and sonic palette.
Midwave Breaks showcase a broad sonic landscape with latest release
The Tauranga based Alt-Rock Duo of drummer Paul Russell, and Singer-Songwriter and Guitarist Bruce Conlon, have become fast friends of Rock Radio listeners across NZ, releasing 6 Independent Singles in less than two years, all of which have featured in the Top 20 Radioscope Rock Chart, with three reaching the Top 10.
This latest offering is a conscious deep-dive, showcasing their wider songwriting scope and sonic palette. The trio of tracks, while less commercial in format, still encapsulate the emergent Midwave Breaks sound, with Conlon’s distinctive vocalsand Russell’s infectious drum grooves on full display.
The EP was recorded, mixed, and mastered by the band themselves, at a home studio in the rolling hills overlooking the Bay of Plenty Coastline.
The Title track features twice - first as an enveloping Wall of Sound that takes you on an evolving journey of melodic layered twists and turns, with track two being an upbeat, cheeky Alt-Country reprise of the former.
The closing track Finding Life is a reimagining of an early 2000s song, originally performed by the pair’s first band Eight (Sony/BMG) but never recorded and released.
The reworked version incorporates a full Gospel Style Choral Crescendo, and features guest performances from The Black Seeds Horn Section - Barrett Hocking (trumpet) and Matt Benton (Sax) - alongside expat kiwi Trombonist Richard Shirley(Melbourne SO), and renowned session staple Chip Matthews on bass guitar.
LA LA LA FAMILY FESTIVAL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN MUSIC FEATURING ANIKA MOA, VALKYRIE, LIPS & MORE
La La La festival hosted in Whanganui on February 18 boasts an incredible line-up, celebrating women in music from Whanganui and around Aotearoa including Anika Moa, Valkyrie, Lips, Ripple Effect, The Flow Collective and Sophie Toyne.
LA LA LA FAMILY FESTIVAL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN MUSIC FEATURING ANIKA MOA, VALKYRIE, LIPS & MORE!
La La La festival hosted in Whanganui on February 18 boasts an incredible line-up, celebrating women in music from Whanganui and around Aotearoa including Anika Moa, Valkyrie, Lips, Ripple Effect, The Flow Collective and Sophie Toyne.
La La La is a whānau friendly event with free tickets for under 16 year olds. Alongside a diverse musical programme there are all sorts of other activities on offer for a fun day out with the family.
La La La is held in conjunction with the La Fiesta Women's Festival, and is the second whānau day in the Lost Art Summer in the Square series.
Event organiser Gioia Damosso shares "As a female promoter it is so exciting for me to be able to create an event celebrating women in music and also take part in the wonderful women's festival that is La Fiesta. La La La is the perfect event for the whole whānau with an array of family friendly activities and an amazingly diverse line up of musicians from all over Aotearoa!"
Singer-songwriter Anika Moa is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated music artists. She has released six studio albums, been nominated for numerous awards, and won four NZ Music Awards – including Best Female Vocalist. As well as her pop albums, Anika has also had three wildly successful children’s albums titled Songs For Bubbas. Anika’s sharp wit and hilarious banter have also made waves on television, radio and online. After 20 years of performing live, it’s pretty clear Anika knows not only how to hold a crowd but also to entertain one.
Valkyrie, is a 4 piece pop/rock band formed in Auckland, New Zealand. Valkyrie crafts a wide range of escapist and original songs written about real life experiences. On stage they explode with raw energy, precision and audience participation. They have recently played a nationwide tour, favorites at Splore Festival (3x), Soundsplash festival and opening for New Zealand's biggest band Six60 (2021).
2022 Taite Music Prize nominees Lips is a four-piece music group from Tāmaki Makaurau. Their music finds its roots in the familiar melodies of homegrown Indie, the tender embrace of Synth Pop, and the humorous side-eye of American New Wave. Ultimately resulting in a sound that's a celebration of feeling awkward and embracing it anyway. The band’s song "Everything to Me" won the 2012 Silver Scroll Award.
Completing the impressive line up are local acts; Ripple Effect a 5 Piece reggae fusion band from Palmerston North, The Flow Collective bringing a show that celebrates the Whanganui River and the stories of its people, featuring traditional and contemporary musical forms, including jazz, working songs, sea shanties, folk, country and pop and Sophie Toyne a 12 year old Whanganui country singer and winner of the Junior Section at the Gore Golden Guitars 2021, Junior Overall Winner of the NZCMA Entertainer of the year 2020, runner up for Entertainer of the Year 2021 and 2022.
"The Lost Art Summer in the Square series is about reaching out to a diverse community and providing entertainment for everyone" shares Damosso. "Whanganui is often left off of touring schedules and so I am passionate about bringing artists to Whanganui who have often never had the opportunity to perform here. Held in the heart of Whanganui, we are activating the community space of Majestic Square with vibrancy with the help of world class musicians from around Aotearoa. Whanganui is on the up and up and the perfect holiday destination for a long weekend for those interested in the arts. Whether its, glass, street art, music or simply to enjoy our beautiful awa, there is plenty to see and do in Whanganui.”
Tickets on sale through EVENTBRITE
LA LA LA - Saturday February 18, 1pm - 9pm, Majestic Square, Whanganui