Emerging pop star Ben Horlock releases emotive new single ‘This Ain’t The End’

LISTEN HERE

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Up-and-coming Aotearoa pop artist Ben Horlock (Ngati Porou, Te Arawa) has today released his latest single ‘This Ain’t The End’ - proving once again to be an artist to watch!

This exciting new single from the 19-year-old singer and songwriter has a driving beat, catchy chorus and includes pop perfect shifts from emotional to hopeful and uplifting. “To me it's kind of like a motivational song for anyone feeling really down,” says Ben, who worked on the song with grammy nominated producer and songwriter Rory Noble (Kanye West, Burna Boy, Ruel, Claire Rosinfranz, BANKS) at Parachute Studios. “Rory and I had been working together for a couple days and just as our session was about to end I was messing about on a guitar playing this little riff and singing this melody. Rory asked what it was and I said ‘just a random idea’. It was enough for us to start a new song when we were meant to be calling it quits for the day. I even had a show I ended up being late for.”

Ben says the inspiration for ‘This Ain’t The End’ came from his own difficult experiences, as well as empathising with others stories. “I wanted to try to give anyone out there a message not to give up when things get dark. I'm not gonna lie, I got into a pretty dark place to write this and it has the vulnerability that comes with being a teenager, because we’re all just trying to figure out who we are.”

Also released today is a video Ben made with friends in his home studio (which also doubled as a bedroom when the car got “too much” to sleep in). The video shows Ben on his bed playing guitar, with a friend lying motionless next to him. “We wanted to keep the concept simple, just show what my life is like and try to get as much emotion from the song across. To me, it really captures the feeling of the song - about wanting to hold onto someone (or something) and the thought of losing them giving you the feeling of your mind falling into that darker place,” says Ben, adding that to be able to film in his room, he had to do a big clean. “Hopefully it’s not too clean though, as I still wanted to show what a crazy life I’ve been living these past few years.”

Whakatāne born, and now Auckland-based, Ben grew up in Dunedin where he began writing songs aged 12, after teaching himself guitar. Following on from winning regional Rockquest in 2018, he was quickly recognised as a talent to discover - being teamed up with some of Aotearoa’s best talent/studios (Roundhead/Parachute); landing spots as the youngest artist on the main stage at various Bay of Plenty summer festivals in early 2020; and more recently, headlining a concert with Lime Cordiale and Coterie.  Ben’s first unplugged releases gained him a dedicated online following - both in Aotearoa and overseas. With more music on the horizon, ‘This Ain’t The End’ is a great taste of what’s still to come from Ben Horlock - so be sure you’re following his socials!      

Midwave Breaks announce Special Guests for NZ Tour

43 Local Acts from around the country put their hands up to be part of Midwave Breaks NZ Tour in May!

The Tauranga Alt-Rock duo of singer-songwriter Bruce Conlon, and drummer Paul Russell, have had a resoundingly positive response to their ‘Special Guest Artist Search’ in partnership with Rockshop, helping to shine a light on Local Acts in support of NZ Music Month 2023.

“We’re pretty blown away by the response, we’re by no means an established band ourselves, so to have this level of interest from fellow musicians wanting to be involved is super encouraging!” Drummer Paul Russell

The selected ‘Local Special Guest Artists’ for Midwave Breaks NZ Tour 2023 are:

New Plymouth - The Black Daphnes

Wellington - Dash Ripshaw

Gisborne - Spikey

Auckland - The Boondocks

Christchurch - Imperial April

Hamilton - Pineapple Hedz

Napier - Say Or Do

Mount Maunganui - Whiskey Soho

Dunedin - IVY

Thanks to the legends at Rockshop, each selected Special Guest Artist receives a $200 Rockshop Voucher, plus (courtesy of Midwave Breaks) $150 cash and a double-pass giveaway for each member of the band.

Given the volume of responses and depth of talent displayed, Bruce and Paul have   since invited a number of other bands to join the show as well.

In total 15 Emerging Kiwi Artists will share the stage with Midwave Breaks across the Motu in celebration of NZ Music Month!

WASTE FREE WANDA - TERM 2 TOUR

With the support of the Queenstown Lakes District Council, Aotearoa’s environmental superhero Waste Free Wanda is preparing for a term 2 tour of the area.

The show, which has now reached over 13,000 tamariki, was launched in 2020 and brought to life with the help of the QLDC.

“This is the first time our community will be seeing the show in 3 years. It’s come such a long way since its humble beginnings. I’m really excited to share it in my own neck of the woods again”, said show creator and performer Anna van Riel.

The 80’s-inspired Waste Free Wanda show focuses on the very real and growing issue of eco-anxiety in children, and offers realistic and achievable solutions, which are taught through theatre, song and actions.
Young audiences become important characters in the one-woman show, helping Wanda to save her town and local river from an overwhelm of single-use plastic pollution.

“The show advocates for the arts, for the environment and for wellbeing in our tamariki. It’s funny with a strong Kiwiana flavour. The hooks in the songs are super sticky, and the actions help to lock in solutions that children can take home and share confidently with their families. It helps them to feel part of the solution around waste pollution”, said Anna.

The upcoming QLDC tour will visit a collection of local schools, ECE centres and libraries in the hope of making it easily accessible to tamariki aged 4-12. The QLDC Waste Minimisation grant supporting the tour was gratefully received through charitable trust The Wanda Foundation, whose focus is on inspiring environmental change through the arts.

With testimonials that liken the show to “Flight of the Conchords meets Captain Planet”, this is an opportunity to belly laugh, learn and understand how we can all be part of a positive change for papatūānuku.

For more information on Waste Free Wanda, and how to see a show in the QLDC head to www.wastefreewanda.com

Jujulipps is excited to announce the release of ‘Saucy’ - a floating cloud of confidence that rains down on whoever hears it.

Since the release of her debut single ‘Hilary Banks’ in 2021, Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist Jujulipps has been making waves in the Aotearoa rap scene with her dynamic flow and unapologetic confidence.

The highly anticipated single ‘Saucy’, set to be a game-changer, is the first release of her upcoming EP ‘Get That Shot’ which is set to drop towards the end of the year. Produced by Abraham Kunin and mixed by Luke Berryman, 'Saucy' is a floating cloud of confidence that rains down on whoever hears it.

The single is paired with a music video that puts Jujulipps' confidence on full display. Starting with her sitting on a throne, the video is a visual feast. 'Saucy' is the booster or pick-me-up we all need, reminding us to be unapologetically ourselves and to add a little extra confidence sauce to our daily lives.

The Saucy music video (created by the incredible team at Video Buzz, and directed by Alex Hargreaves) burns with the same confidence and energy of which Jujulipps speaks. She describes the shoot as “an experience I will always remember. I worked closely alongside Mary Adeosun, and spent months connecting potential ideas and then refining these themes. There were many nights of tests and trials with hairdresser Paida Machakaire in order to achieve the elaborate styles presented in the video. With the undeniably talented designer Syndel Finlay we merged a look that was not only the embodiment of the track 'Saucy' but is the embodiment of me as an artist. Working with Alex and the whole team was a greatly awakening experience, sharing creative passions with such talented individuals was a true pleasure.”

After a busy festival season which saw Jujulipps performing at various New Zealand summer festivals (Northern Bass, Cuba Dupa, Cross St. Festival, Laneway Festival (cancelled) and a national tour with Synthony), Juju is finally ready to showcase ‘Saucy’ to her fans, who have been eagerly waiting for this release since her debut.

This banger is a celebration of self-love, empowerment, and the joy that comes from being ourselves. Out now through Bigpop Records, on all streaming services!

Saucy is out now!

Stream the track here: https://lnk.to/JujuSaucy

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/4uA9ECR4a9s

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Rocket Berry dispel illusions in new synth-pop single ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’

Te Whanganui-a-Tara indie-pop band Rocket Berry have today released their new synth-pop single ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’.

Listen to ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’ HERE

An 80s influenced synth-pop stand-out, ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’ is about holding on to the fantasy of a person against all the evidence. It’s Rocket Berry’s third single, following on from ‘Chill Out’ and ‘Walls (Gotta Get Out)’, which were both independently released not long after the band formed in 2022 and have had over 15K streams.

“We wanted to form a band centred around putting together a high-energy live show, combining 80s influences with character-based songwriting,” says Rocket Berry. “We’ve spent the past year cementing our sound and live set through various gigs in and around Wellington and plan to build on this in 2023, beginning with our single launch gig at Moon on April 14.”

Made up of Clara van Wel (vocals), Connor Scott (keyboards), Peter Wilkes (bass) and Baileigh Sparkes (drums), ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’ was written by Connor before the band had even formed. “It gave us an opportunity to explore and fine-tune our sound,” says Connor. “With Clara being predominantly a folk songwriter, we found that the process of working on ‘Caught Up in the Fiction’ helped inform our sound and set the stage for more collaborative songwriting between the two of us.” Recorded in Connor’s bedroom studio, the track was then mixed and mastered by Wellington electroacoustic composer and audio engineer Jack Woodbury.

Rocket Berry is an exciting up-and-coming band that bridges the gap between folk-rock and synth-pop to create a groove with an edge. If lead singer Clara van Wel seems like a familiar face/voice - they won New Zealand’s Got Talent in 2012 with their original songs, before going on to study in the UK. Rocket Berry is their first band since returning to Aotearoa. Rocket Berry’s ultimate goal is to entertain, get people moving and inspire them to own themselves. They’re definitely a band to watch!

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SOL3 MIO’s Moses Mackay unveils first single from upcoming solo album GRACE, the soulful ‘Some Sorta Sensation’

Award-winning Aotearoa artist Moses Mackay has today unveiled the fun and soulful single ‘Some Sorta Sensation’, along with its blissful accompanying video shot in LA. This is the first track to be released from his highly anticipated upcoming debut solo album GRACE.

Listen to ‘Some Sorta Sensation’ HERE

Pre-order the album GRACE HERE

‘Some Sorta Sensation’ toys with the infatuation of new love; the unknown, the innocence, the purity and bliss. A mellow organ and easy-going rhythm section sets the scene for an array of vocal layers, harmonies and melodic hooks, showcasing the exceptional vocal skill of Moses Mackay.

“I first remember humming this song one night before bed,” reflects Moses. “Had no idea what it was. I woke up with the song still echoing in my head… so by the time I put pen to paper it was pretty much done. It basically wrote itself.”

Also out today is the accompanying video, shot by Andrew Rose and edited by Momoose Productions. Capturing the blissful essence of the music, the visuals explore the purity of feeling like you’re on cloud nine, that “you don’t know where you’re going, but everywhere you look is so beautiful and colourful, so why stop walking?”

“We pretty much only did it in one take,” says Moses. “Anything contrived or planned felt like it was going against capturing the moment of bliss. I felt like an icecream; that wasn’t planned either. But it was so hot and the ice cream was melting FAST… so as soon as I ordered it - off we went. Along Venice Beach in Los Angeles.”

Born and raised in New Zealand, Moses is a multi-instrumentalist with an ear for harmony and composition. A Masters graduate of the Wales International Academy of Voice, he is one third of the world renowned trio SOL3 MIO. Their debut album spent an incredible 16 weeks at #1 and is certified 8x Platinum. They have been awarded the iconic Tui Award twice and Album Of The Year, Best Group and Highest Selling Album at the Aotearoa Music Awards for three consecutive years.

This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter to come from this beloved Aotearoa artist, with ‘Some Sorta Sensation’ giving fans their first glimpse at a deeper connection to the soul of Moses Mackay.

“Soul music for me is ANYTHING that makes you feel something. Whether it be Bill Withers, Luciano Pavarotti, or Celine Dion. If the music does something to you.. then that’s when you know you’re not listening to the music.. you’re listening to the soul of the artist.”

To celebrate the release of ‘Some Sorta Sensation’, Moses Mackay has announced a competition via his social media, giving 10 lucky winners the chance to hear the GRACE album ahead of release at an exclusive listening session in Auckland. Catch Moses on Instagram or Facebook for details.

Listen to ‘Some Sorta Sensation’ HERE
Pre-order the album GRACE HERE

BORDERLINE DELIVER ‘GOING HOME (BITTER)’ AND HEAD ON TOUR

Following what was an incredible first year on the music scene, Indie-Pop/Rock band Borderline are back for 2023 with the first track of their new era, ‘Going Home (Bitter).’

Produced by Christian Tjandrawinata and mixed by Nic Manders, the track is a coming-of-age journey through self-improvement. It follows a narrative of experiencing things that are out of their control, with lead singer Ben Glanfield explaining, "the lyrical progression throughout the song highlights the realisation that nothing is perfect, people aren’t perfect, but that looking back on experiences fuels the journey of self-improvement."

In support of the new single the teen band are heading off on their four date ‘Going Home Release Tour,’ playing shows in Wellington, Tauranga, Hamilton and Auckland, thanks to the New Zealand Music Commission’s Aotearoa Touring Programme. Recently announced, local support acts will be joining the band on tour across the North Island.

Guitarist Matt McFadden explains “‘Going Home (Bitter)’ feels like a new era of Borderline,” with drummer Jackson Boswell adding, “we can’t wait to take this song on the road for the ‘Going Home Release Tour’ and share the rest of what’s to come this year with everyone around the country.”

Another catchy, smooth, upbeat original to add to their catalogue, ‘Going Home (Bitter)’ is out Friday, 7th April on all streaming platforms.

TOUR DATES

12 April - Wellington - Thistle Hall

13 April - Tauranga - Totara Street

14 April - Hamilton - Zeal

15 April - Auckland - Big Fan

Tickets are on sale now and available through eventfinda.co.nz and totarastreet.co.nz

WHEN THE GRIT HITS THE FAN

A musical and comedy family show for those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Acts include: Suzy Cato, Captain Festus McBoyle’s Travellin’ Variety Show, Le Cirque de JP and 2 Hawkes Bay Bands (TBC).

The show's purpose is to bring joy to Hawkes Bay families who are suffering from trauma due to the storm's impact. The events will take place during May which is New Zealand Music Month. These entertainers create marvellous material for children, youth and family, transcending both age and culture with ease. 

This is a whānau friendly event for the community which is inclusive of difference and diversity. The event is to raise spirits, create unity and raise funds for the area particularly for ongoing mental health support. The full impact from trauma may take a long time to fully reveal itself, hence the availability of help for all in need is vitally important. 

We will be working closely with local iwi and kaumātua who will open and close each event with a karakia. There will also be kapa haka performance from local groups who will perform as part of those ceremonies. We feel it is imperative to collaborate with Tangata Whenua for these aroha driven events.

The Tour will be for Hastings and Napier at this stage with a proposed roll out to Gisborne and Wairoa at a later date.

Ticketing will be priced for the physical show at $15 per ticket which will be sold to corporate sponsors and private individuals to sponsor a seat. There will be no cost for whānau attending the show. Distribution of the tickets will be done through the appropriate agencies and all funds raised from tickets will be directly donated back into the community.

We are currently negotiating with a video production company to create a live stream pay per view option to raise more funds to be directly donated back into the community.

All money raised will be going through these channels to ensure that they are used correctly.

https://napierfamilycentre.org.nz

https://heretaungawomenscentre.nz

These foundations have the ability to accept the money and distribute it fairly to the local marae and family services.

We have activated a ‘Give a little’ page, with a fundraising goal of $25,000 that will cover all production costs associated with the two events and anything raised above that amount will also be distributed through the local family service providers working in the Hawkes bay.

https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/when-the-grit-hits-the-fan-music-and-laughter

EVENT DETAILS 

Napier Municipal Theatre - Saturday May 20th 1pm

Toi Toi/ Opera House - Sunday May 21st 1pm

(Gisborne and Wairoa events still to be confirmed at a Later Date)

Whānau really need to have a happy memory to make them smile when times get tough and together we can help to make this happen.