Deva Mahal ‘Future Classic, Vol.1: Classic’ Tour

In celebration of the release of her latest EP, 'Future Classics: Vol. 1 - Classic',  Deva Mahal will play 3 shows this June in NZ's biggest centres.

10th June - The Loons, Christchurch 

16th June - The Tuning Fork, Auckland 

24th June, Meow, Wellington 

The Classic Tour will show off how the EP is a powerful piece of work; showcasing Deva’s strength yet vulnerability as a songwriter, her skill as a producer, and her talent as a vocalist. The music evokes incredible emotion full of both joy and pain. Future Classic, Vol.1: Classic - Classic channels into her music the staggering heartbreak of the current racial violence and political injustices of her country of origin, the eternal endeavor to search for true love and self-worth, and her emboldened sense of sensuality, softness, and power as a Black woman. 

“To dare to bet on yourself and the ones you trust most, to create something beautiful to share with Aotearoa.” 

On support, Deva has some incredible wahine joining her - Tusekah in Christchurch, Kat Little in Auckland, and her sister, Zoe Moon in Wellington. 

The show will include the tracks from her new EP along with some of her older classics.

Deva is excited to be back on tour performing live to her much-loved fans.

Ticket On Sale Now - available from www.devamahal.com

LAUREN GIN presents ‘Flight’ ft. Reshma

New Zealand Electronic Producer and Songwriter Lauren Gin Releases Third Single ‘Flight’ ft. Reshma.

Aotearoa-based electronic music producer and songwriter, Lauren Gin, is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of her latest single, ‘Flight’ featuring Reshma. This high-energy track is the third release off her forthcoming EP titled ‘Adrenaline,’ and promises to deliver the hard-hitting Trap and Future Bass sound that Lauren Gin is known for.

The single is a sonic journey that takes listeners through a range of emotions, building anticipation with a beautiful, angelic leadup with Reshma's powerhouse vocals adding an extra layer of depth before diving into a filthy-heavy drop. 

The songwriter and producer says,“'Flight' is intensifying but also euphoric, and each listener will interpret the sound in their own unique way. For me, I feel uplifted and energised, and I hope the song elicits similar feelings with listeners." A rising star in the genre, Lauren Gin is no stranger to the local electronic music scene, having already carved out a name for herself in the New Zealand festival scene with her blend of hard-hitting Trap and Future Bass sounds. Her previous releases, 'Walk Away' and 'Remedy' ft. JANAYAH, have already gathered critical acclaim and have set the stage for the highly anticipated 'Adrenaline' EP scheduled for release this July.

EMWA – CLICK CLACK

New Zealand based producer & DJ EMWA today shares her latest single ‘Click Clack’, the first new music from EMWA for 2023.

‘Click Clack’ explores the trap side of EMWAs repertoire. It’s a modern take on the ever-popular “brass” sound with rolling basses in between.

The second drop is a stripped back “rave” beat with techno and trance influences sure to get your fists pumping.

“I’m really excited to finally put Click Clack out. I’ve been playing it in my sets lately and it’s been so much fun to see people’s reactions to it. I’m really interested to see if people like the first or second drop better” says EMWA.
EMWA, is an exceptionally talented and versatile producer who has been making waves in the New Zealand music industry. With a passion for electronic music and a deep understanding of various genres, EMWA's productions captivate listeners with her distinctive sound and infectious energy.

From a young age, EMWA developed a strong affinity for music and with an innate sense of rhythm and an unwavering commitment to honing her skills, EMWA quickly garnered attention for her innovative approach to music creation.

EMWA's talent extends beyond the studio, as she has also made a name for herself as a dynamic live performer. With an innate ability to read the crowd and curate a euphoric atmosphere, her electrifying sets have garnered acclaim from both fans and industry professionals alike. Her performance at Homegrown earlier this year has been lauded by many as the set of the day on the Electronic Stage. 

EMWA performs at Back Bar in Hamilton tomorrow night (Saturday 13th May) alongside Drum & Bass local legends, Flowidus. Limited tickets are still available from Ticket Fairy.

EMWA’s new single, ‘Click Clack’ is available to stream on all platforms now!

https://bfan.link/click-clack-EMWA

Māori NeoSoul, Pop and Funk artist MOHI uncovers a new realm of Māori music with his new waiata ‘Me Pēhea Rā’.

Following the release of his upbeat, chart hitting singles ‘Jasmine’, and 'Tahuri Mai', MOHI (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa) is changing up his tune with the release of his latest waiata ’Me Pēhea Rā’.

Bursting onto the music scene with his captivating voice and incredible compositions, MOHI’s latest waiata reveals a more vulnerable side to MOHI, pulling us right back into them feels we’ve been trying to cover up for the longest time.

Me Pēhea Rā speaks to the complexities of love, from falling in love, to falling out of love and is a wonderful addition to the MOHI catalogue and allows listeners to connect a little more with this vocal powerhouse.

"I want this waiata to move people, to allow people to feel, to reminisce, to love harder. This waiata is a little different to the waiata I have released; I can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Me Pēhea Rā was co-written and produced with the incredible creatives HINA, Hemi Kelly, Te Rawhitiroa Bosch and Noema Te Hau. It also focuses on bringing his talents of storytelling and exceptional voice to the forefront to showcase a very special rising star.

“I had the privilege of working with the incredibly talented HINA, Hemi Kelly, Te Rawhitiroa Bosch, and Noema Te Hau who co-wrote and produced this waiata. This collaboration was one of the most beautiful musical experiences I’ve had so far on my musical journey - e mihi ana ki tēnei whānau ōku, such an honour.”

'Me Pēhea Rā’ is now available on all streaming platforms.

Georgia Lines releases infectious, hook-laden single + video ‘Monopoly’

Georgia Lines, the award-winning artist from Aotearoa, has just released her first single and video for 2023, titled ‘Monopoly'.

Listen to ‘Monopoly’ HERE

‘Monopoly’ encapsulates the iconic vibe of 80s/90s pop; an infectious bass line, punchy drum hits and a captivating groove. In her signature style, Georgia has infused her latest track with impeccable harmonies and a soulful flair, showcasing her exceptional vocal range and control.

“Sonically the track fits into a world where Prince meets Haim, layered with MJ stacked vocals.” explains Georgia. “My favourite combination!”

The new single was written and recorded with Jussi Ilmari Karvinen (better known as Jussifer) - a Finnish-American producer, songwriter and musician who has worked with Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, Ellie Goulding, Bebe Rexha and more.

Created on a recent writing trip to LA, the single explores a childhood experience of Georgia’s; one which translates to universal themes of life and loss.

“I wrote ‘Monopoly’ about a vivid memory I have as a young child (around 8yrs old), camping here in NZ and playing a game of Monopoly with my family,” says Georgia. “As it often happens in life… things were going really well; I was winning in the game, buying all my property, collecting my money… feeling really stoked with myself. All of a sudden things changed and I lost everything. I went on to have a full meltdown, not coping with the fact that I had lost. Safe to say, this was the last time I played Monopoly.”

Accompanying the single is the video for ‘Monopoly’ which Georgia says is one of the most exciting parts of her job.

“I love the entire day of shooting the video and have the most incredible team of people working with me. Video shoot days can be quite stressful, but if you ever find yourself on set with our team... there is a lot of laughter, snacks, positive affirmations being yelled across the room, and overall such an encouraging environment, which really feeds into the energy of what is being created,” she says. 

The video for ‘Monopoly’ was created to be  less of a conceptual video and more of an engaging piece of content that can partner with the song on social media platforms to draw people in. 

“I love creating videos with a storyline or with a concept that develops... but for this song, I wanted to create something that was simple and placed a focus on a strong performance. I love how engaging the performance is, mixed in with the absolute absurd amount of smoke. Honestly, I couldn’t see anything in the room aside from the DP if he was filming close to my face, which was quite an odd feeling but also really freeing. I didn’t feel like anyone was watching me perform, which almost gave me permission to really throw myself into the performance as there was zero pressure!” says Georgia. 

Georgia's success is not surprising, given her impressive track record. She was named the AMA Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2022, her EP HUMAN topped the Official Top 20 NZ Album chart, and her lead single ‘Faith’ held the top spot on the NZ Airplay Radioscope chart for four consecutive weeks. Her live performances have also received critical acclaim, and she has opened for international acts and performed at various showcases around the world including SXSW and Los Angeles iconic industry showcase School Night.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Georgia also hosts a popular music web series called INTROS.

INTROS is a series where Georgia introduces her new favourite female and non-binary artists through a relaxed sit-down kōrero. Each episode focuses on the artist's chosen song, delving into the story behind the song and the process of writing, before treating viewers to a live performance.

With her distinct style, impressive songwriting prowess, and unwavering work ethic, Georgia Lines is undoubtedly an up-and-coming artist making waves in the music industry. 

Find Georgia Lines:

Facebook / Website /  Instagram
Youtube / Spotify / Apple Music

TOHU making waves with new single Tū mai te reo

Tohu releases their second single, “Tū Mai Te Reo” on 19 May. 2023 It speaks of holding our language close to us, connecting us to our culture.

Tama ( lead singer) felt like he was losing the language because he had no one to speak to whilst living abroad.

The words were an inspiration to hold on to his Reo (language) as it was a connection to his ancestors, especially living overseas. He wanted to write a waiata that was easy on the ears and had a strong message.

With the support and funding by Te Māngai Pāho, Tū mai te reo was recorded and mixed by Evan Pope at Studio 11B and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studio. Videography was done by Shelz Media.

This reggae tune gives off the summer vibes that we have missed this year with the weather, with a reminder to hold fast to our language and culture.

TOHU is a five-piece band made up of diverse members from Aotearoa, formed in December 2022. Tohu brings together over six decades of musical expertise that perpetuates bilingual culture through the power of music. From Rotorua, to the nation and beyond the borders, we value a commitment to Whanaungatanga (community), Manaakitanga (care for each other), Aroha (love), Auahatanga (creativity), and Kōrero (communication).

Our essence as Tohu is to co-exist in a bilingual society that supports the values we aspire to. Music is our chosen medium through which we are able to connect with people across different languages, cultures and backgrounds. Through our shared experience, we are able to relate to each other, gain perspective, and create compassion and an understanding attained through art. Sharing our Reo (language) is one way to Kōrero our inner workings. As we grow as a band, we would like to invite you on this journey into biculturalism that Aotearoa thrives on, weaving our unique story that is our Whakapapa (genealogy).

Teenage Singer-songwriter Will Luhrs releases new single "Our Masquerade" featuring Just Monet.

Will Luhrs, a new talent in the contemporary scene, has released a new single titled "Our Masquerade" featuring the vocals and saxophone additions of Just Monet. The song is available now on all major streaming platforms.

https://li.sten.to/ourmasquerade

In a soon to be released interview with “Tsrang” , Luhrs spoke about his musical journey and the inspiration behind the new release. Luhrs started playing the piano at the age of seven and has been passionate about music ever since. He draws inspiration from artists like Laufey, Daniel Caesar, and Cosimo And The Hot Coals, who stay true to their sound and create music with soul and character.

Luhrs also credits his talented friends and the people around him for inspiring him every day and teaching him something new about music. Just Monet, his close friend and collaborator, is one of those people. Monet is an accomplished singer and musician, having won national jazz awards with her band "Chicks From Corea'' and performing in various shows and competitions. The two came up with the idea for "Our Masquerade" during a jam session in early January, and the song has been in development ever since.

"Our Masquerade" is a catchy and soulful tune that evokes the spirit of old-school soul music. The word "masquerade" means a false show or pretence, and the song is about letting go of things that are out of your control and being free. The lyrics are metaphorical and can be interpreted in many different ways. The line "Baby don’t cry, good things take time" is a particular standout, conveying a sense of hope and positivity.

Luhrs and Schutte’s creativity is evident in the song, with their voices blending seamlessly to create a harmonious and emotionally resonant sound. The song is a testament to their talent and dedication to their craft, and is sure to resonate with fans of contemporary and soulful music.

For more information on Will Luhrs and his music, follow him on social media and all major streaming platforms.

Chart topping bilingual duo ‘Aro’ release their brand new single - ‘Aroā’ for NZ Music Month & Waiata Anthems - A song of hope

Inspired by the challenges that life brings, the pair are set to release their moving new waiata ‘Aroā’. Aro share their newest waiata, following the release of ‘Know How’ an English language version of the song, released on May 5th. The Waiata Anthems version of this tune, supported by APRA Te Tautāwhinga and Creative NZ, is to be released on May 19th, and leads into another nationwide tour through Matariki with Arts on Tour NZ.

The release also follows their recently announced nomination for APRA AMCOS Te Korokoro Tūī - Best Children's Song, for their Top 10 NZ single ‘Kia Mau’ released in 2022!

‘Kia Mau’ captured hearts & minds around the motu with the pair's stunning vocals and the video's whānau feels; filmed at Charles and Emily’s home, with their little daughter, friends and family, at a time when there was a lot of division amongst the hearts of many kiwis during the covid times.

Timed perfectly for NZ Music Month, ‘Aroā’, features ‘Aro’s’ heartwarming and passionate sound, with their vocals melding together in unity to share a message of hope. “Its release is dedicated, in particular, to those who lost so much through cyclone Gabrielle earlier this year and others who have suffered with the recent weather events in Aotearoa

“Sometimes, focusing on putting one foot in front of the other is the best we can do. We wrote this song last year when something didn’t go the way we had hoped, which gave us the opportunity/the need to see things with a fresh perspective, like a blank canvas. Through that time we reminded ourselves that everything was going to be okay, as we know who we are, we know where we come from and we’ll figure out where we’re going as we do, as things unfold.”

The Silver Scroll APRA Maioha Award and APRA Best Children’s Award Finalists, are made up of husband and wife Charles (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Te Ata, Te Ati Awa) and Emily Looker (nee Rice). The Auckland based pair share a passion for the power of language and music to tell stories and remind us of our cultural identity. The pair have become well known for their multi-genre offering of storytelling pop, RnB, electronic and jazz, fusing vocals, tāonga puoro and chants, and for often exploring the ideas of kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga - looking after ourselves, looking after each other and looking after our environment. 

‘Aro’ have been performing nationwide in Aotearoa since 2017 with headline tours, festival dates and on tour support, as well as having had their music & performances featured on radio, TV & press around the country numerous times in recent years. Both Emily & Charles have successful careers in music as individuals, but meld together with a stunning harmony and a breathtaking loving presence as ‘Aro’.

The duo are also taking their music on the road through July in celebration of Know How/Aroā and their recent releases - He Wai, Manu and He Manu Anō. The pair are performing 20 shows from Kaeo to Hokitika during and around Matariki 2022, as part of Arts on Tour - where they will be bringing their intimate storytelling performance to venues, mostly off the beaten track around the country. 

Aro 2023 Matariki Tour Dates to be announced soon – with 20 shows from Kaeo to Hokitika

Tour details - Details and tickets can be found soon at aromusic.co.nz

Listen here: https://bfan.link/aroa 

Website: www.aromusic.co.nz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aromusicao

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aromusicao

Bandcamp:https://aromusicao.bandcamp.com

Spotify: Aro Artist Page HERE