The Human Kind are back with a new line up and edgy-alt pop single and video, ‘I’m Eternity’

The Human Kind have today released their new single and video ‘I’m Eternity’ and launched their new merchandise line, with all profits from the single release over the next three months going to the charity, Mates In Construction, who support the prevention of suicide in our construction industry. 

Featuring the vocals from member Chrissy Diamond, the edgy alt-pop single features minimal instrumentation in the first verse, reflecting the sense of isolation expressed in the lyrics. 

The chorus speaks of our indestructible nature chanting the song title, ‘I’m Eternity’ and leads to a melodic homecoming with Jason Slade singing overlapping harmonies in falsetto enhanced by the intuitive drumming of Hayden Wharewaka. 

Frank Marinthe's spacious production blends the complementary artists together while still allowing each to stand in their own light. 

“‘I’m Eternity’ is about being left alone feeling brokenhearted in a dark void. There in the darkness you surprisingly discover that the pain doesn't kill you. Something rises up within you that is indestructible and cannot be broken, and you experience your essential nature which is the energy present in all of eternity,” says Chrissy Diamond, the group’s spokesperson.

The track was produced by Frank Marinthe, and co-written by THK Founders Frank Marinthe and Chrissy Diamond along with prior THK contributor Mitch French. 

Accompanying the single, the music video highlights the indestructible human nature displayed in the strength, endurance and spirit of athletes and individuals affected with physical disabilities. 

Alongside with the release, the group have also launched their online merchandise shop with all of the profits from purchases being donated to the various charities they support. 

The charity The Human Kind are supporting along with the release of ‘I'm Eternity’, is Mates In Construction, and the vital mahi they do for suicide prevention in the construction industry in Aotearoa. 

The release joins a handful of songs from The Human Kind this year including, ‘Tell Me How’, ‘Water and Fire’ and ‘Mā Te Wai’ remix featuring Tiki Tane and Black Comet, with more to follow from this exciting up and coming music project. 

Yung Maac releases "40ROZAN" - A Collaboration with Playboi Carti's Homixide Gang Producer, 1Lucas

Yung Maac, a rising star of the Kiwi rap scene, drops his latest single, '40ROZAN'. The track, includes a beat by producer 1Lucas of Playboi Carti's Homixide Gang, showcases Yung Maac's unique energy and his story and lyrics constantly reminding listeners of his distinct Gisborne roots.

The beat of "40ROZAN", masterfully crafted by the talented 1Lucas, sets the stage for Yung Maac's captivating flow, leaving listeners entranced and wanting more.

Following the success of "Handle" (Ft. RVNNAH), which made a significant impact featuring on the Hot 20 NZ Singles charts, Yung Maac continues his upward trajectory as a promising talent in the evergrowing rap scene. "40ROZAN" further cements his status as an artist poised to make a lasting impression on the Kiwi music scene.

The track is accompanied by a captivating music video produced by 24KMedia, that takes viewers on an immersive journey highlighting the heart of new-age Kiwi rap culture.

Yung Maac's ascent within New Zealand's vibrant rap scene signifies the genre's growing momentum, enriched with global influences and the rhythm of internet culture. His compelling sound and charisma embody the new generation of artists reshaping the musical landscape of Aotearoa.

"40ROZAN" is now available for streaming on all major platforms, here. Don't miss the music video produced by 24K Media

Follow Yung Maac on Instagram @Yung_Maac

NAIL - LEAD GUITARIST OF AWARD WINNING BAND DEVILSKIN, BECOMES FIRST GIBSON NEW ZEALAND ARTIST

In an exciting first for New Zealand music, Nail, lead-guitarist of multi-platinum award-winning band DEVILSKIN has been invited to join the Gibson family, being formally selected as a Gibson Artist!

Having always been a huge fan and player of the iconic guitar brand throughout his career, Nail now joins the ranks of distinguished guitarists such as Tony Iommi and Dave Mustaine, having also had the privilege of sharing the stage with fellow Gibson Artists Slash and Lzzy Hale during their New Zealand, Australian, and European tours.

Nail states: “This is such a huge honour for me, I am thrilled to be named as New Zealand’s first Gibson Artist - it’s actually a dream come true! As a kid I grew up watching my heroes play these legendary instruments. And they have always been an essential part in my tone, from the moment I plugged in my very first Gibson, there was an instant magic that I had never experienced before.”

As the commanding guitarist of the beloved hard-rock/metal band, Nail’s searing guitar work and electrifying, high energy performances bring a real intensity to the live show.

Ecstatic to receive his new Custom Shop EDS-1275 Double Neck Guitar last week, Nail can’t wait to play what will be a fantastic addition to Devilskin’s upcoming live shows in Wellington and Napier at the end of this month.

Says Nail: “I am at my most creative when I have my Gibson Les Paul, and have written my biggest songs with that guitar. Without fail, it consistently delivers the powerful sound I want to impart with my playing, every time. But man, I’m super excited to break out with the new Double Neck Gibson when we hit the stage next, it’s going to be a real treat. Gibson Guitars are second to none and it’s an incredible privilege to be assigned this honour.”

DEVILSKIN have two more dates left to perform on their nationwide LET ME BREATHE TOUR, a sold out Wellington show before their final show of the tour in Napier, which was rescheduled due to the ruinous effects of Cyclone Gabrielle. 

For those fans who purchased tickets for the original Napier concert in April, those tickets are completely transferable to the revised date. 

With special guests EAST YORK in tow, DEVILSKIN have invited a fresh, equally kick-ass band to fully complement their legendary high-octane performances, ensuring fans get a sonic, rock-charged night to remember!

A Devilskin audience already knows what a phenomenal show they are in for, and a DEVILSKIN show with special guests EAST YORK, is one hell of a party you don’t want to miss! 

Wellingtons is now sold out, and Napier tickets are limited, so secure yours now.

DEVILSKIN LET ME BREATHE TOUR 2023

+ SPECIAL GUESTS EAST YORK

FRI 28 JULY - SAN FRAN, WELLINGTON - SOLD OUT

SAT 29 JULY - BEV RIDGES ON YORK, NAPIER - LIMITED TICKETS

Tickets on sale now from: eventfinda.co.nz 

Sofia Machray releases ‘Language Of Flowers’, her highly anticipated debut record

Derived from an obsession with flowers, Sofia Machray releases ‘Language Of Flowers’, her highly anticipated debut record. A masterful, hypnotic tapestry of emotions!

‘Language Of Flowers’ is accompanied by her national release tour through August with full 5-piece band!

Langauge of Flowers is a masterful debut record that’s constantly on the brink of exploding into reverberating distortions. Sofia’s hypnotic vocals and powerful songwriting weave together a tapestry of emotions, blending the introspective feelings of melancholy and solitude with bold, anthemic sounds. The 6-track EP dips in and out of tranquil guitar tones, punchy drums, and moments of delicacy, tackling themes of worry, doubt, and growth though overcomings. Language of Flowers was written by Sofia Machray, co-produced with engineer and bandmate Robbie Pattinson and expertly mixed by James Goldsmith. Sofia Machray’s debut record, released on July 21st, is followed with a national ‘Language of Flowers’ release tour.

The birth of the EP titled ‘Language of Flowers’ derived from Machray’s obsession with flowers. “I’ve always been drawn to flowers, the way they change with seasons and day-to-day life whether we notice them or not, I think humans are similar in many ways and I love writing about these concepts. Aside from nature fueling

my creativity the outdoor world has played a significant role in my life and wellbeing.”
Machray, already a hot topic in New Zealand’s thriving independent music scene, recently released ‘Petals in the Rain’, her first single & video off the record, to great success with huge support from both international and local media.

“Tension slowly dissipates into a sweet release that washes over us, drenching our ears and our hearts in a

stunning, seductive indie rock sound”...With grace, glistening sonics, and an unfiltered honesty that hits hard and leaves an instant, lasting mark…Sofia Machray is without a doubt an artist-to-watch moving forward.” - Atwood Magazine - Petals in the Rain

Now alongside the full release comes her next piece of sonic magic, ‘Crumbs’. Heavy yet gentle, focus track ‘Crumbs’ churns through turbulences of dreamy sonic landscapes, harnessing infectious vocal tones and guitar-driven instrumentation. The track unloads a dense emotional outpour at the intersection of indie-pop, heartland rock, and shoegaze.

“This record was like writing letters to my future self to help me get through confusing times and modern-day pressures of growing into adulthood. Over the last year of making this record, I found myself subconsciously writing about moving on before the moving on had even begun. I found it interesting that I’d been trying to let go of something whilst still trying to hold on. These moments of self-discovery can be confronting at times, I often find myself turning to nature to help me come to peace with overwhelming feelings.”

Sofia Machray is an independent dream-rock singer-songwriter from the heart of the mountains in

Arrowtown, New Zealand. With her music stretching out over moody rockers and soft-burning hooks, Sofia

delved into the realm of indie music from a young age as a self-taught guitarist from 6 years old. Often

drawing on timeless concepts and the vast landscapes that she was raised within. Over recent years she has rapidly solidified herself as a tactful, independent, femme-led outfit in the forefront of New Zealand’s

alternative indie scene. Alongside her music she is co-founder of event booking agent Peach Promotions, set up with an aim to create safe environments with equal opportunity for all creatives involved in the music

industry.

In celebration of Machray’s debut, she will be heading out on her nationwide ‘Language of Flowers' release tour, with her 5-piece band, including members Anna Wild (Jack Panther, Zö), Alex Hoare (Gallery

Orchestra), Robbie Pattinson (Sam Wave) and Alfie Parvin (Sam Wave).

Language of Flowers National Release Tour:

● 3rd August 2023: Ōhinehou / Lyttelton - Wunderbar

● 4th August 2023: Ōtepoti / Dunedin - Dive - 4 August

● 5th August 2023: Tāhuna / Queenstown - Yonder (free show)

● 11th August 2023: Te Whanganui A-tara / Wellington - Meow

● 19th August 2023: Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland - Whammy Bar

Tour tickets available from June 16th at www.peach-promotions.com

The Ruapehu Rundown - Devon Welch returns to Turoa Lodge Ōhakune, Sat July 29th.

Amongst all this mid-winter madness things have been up in the air regarding the opening of the ski fields atop our central north island Maunga / Mountain- Ruapehu. But fear not, is the call to heed and live into as things are set to be in full swing, with snow all the way down to base for you avid mountain heads! 

Fresh off his five-date tour which saw him whipping up the breadth and length of Te Ika A Māui, has been in the lab writing tunes and sinking his teeth into his newfound love for making beats using Logic Pro. All the while lining up the stars to pull power forth from the ethos to create yet another show of epic proportions. 

With a much-needed month break from the ins and outs of life as an artist now out the way- both here In the real world and online. It’s safe to say the foot is firmly on the gas with no signs of slowing down. This show at Turoa Lodge marks the start of the next season for this Kāpiti born star as he prepares to record his next project set for a November release. 

Come get out of town and hear some of these new tracks live as we celebrate this life we live together on planet Earth. 

Joined by Dj Tip Savage from Aotearoa Records- on the decks, he’ll not only be serving you up the finest tunes but the remaining copies of Dev's vinyl of "Journey to Freedom"

Doors open at 9- with FREE ENTRY before 10 pm and music kicking off shortly after til late. 

This event is sponsored by Ski FM - Ōhakune's local radio station. 
Official Facebook event - Is a click away here

If you can't wait until next week for the vinyl click here to get yours now

Follow Devon on: 
Spotify
Facebook
Instagram - Devonwelch_
Youtube

TIKI TAANE UNVEILS AWARD-WINNING MUSIC DOCUMENTARY FILM

LIVE ALBUM SET FOR SIMULTANEOUS RELEASE ON FRIDAY 11 AUGUST

Fans of the multi-talented dub musician Tiki Taane are in for a full-blown cinematic audio-visual treat with the world premiere of Tiki Taane In Session With CSO, the film of his one-off 2021 concert extravaganza, ‘Ōtautahi Proud’.

As part of the NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, the inaugural screening will be in Tiki’s hometown of Ōtautahi/Christchurch on Friday 11 August at the Isaac Theatre Royal, with the celebratory evening including a hosted Q&A session with Tiki, where he will get to meet film festival attendees as a ‘Film Director’ for the first time!

Filmed and recorded live in May 2021 to a sold-out audience at the fully refurbished Christchurch Town Hall, Tiki’s film has captured an emotional and explosive performance with Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.

Stunningly shot and superbly mixed, Tiki has raised the bar of what can be achieved when collaborating with a 50-piece live orchestra as the musicians bring powerfully reimagined versions of Tiki’s beloved songs to life, set against a backdrop of striking imagery.

The genre-bending, live-looping performances make for an extremely unique and original experience, solidifying Tiki as one of the most diverse artists in Aotearoa NZ. To date the film has garnered an impressive 30 international laurels from film festivals around the globe ranging from Official Selections to wins for Best Music Documentary; Best Sound Design; Best Documentary; Best Live Performance; Best Film Score Soundtrack; Best Music Director; Best Original Score and counting. *see end notes for a full run-down of laurels

More than just a filmed concert, the film is intercut with scenes from the rehearsal providing an insight into Tiki’s fascinatingly intuitive process of working with the classically trained orchestral players and their accomplished conductor Tom Rainey.

Talking with Stuff, Tiki explains: “I don't read sheet music, I just memorise it all and see it all in my head as colours and sounds. The orchestration of ‘Always On My Mind’ ... I'm used to a beat, but this is free-form, with strings.”

From the clever scene-setting debut of live looping with an orchestra on epic opener ‘Whakapuaki’, to the stellar special guest appearances by Tali and Big Sima, to the shimmering, delicate beauty of Tiki’s #1 hit ‘Always On My Mind’ (Kei Tōku Ngākau Nei Koe), to the sheer power and grandeur of the mighty ‘Tangaroa’, Tiki delivers a uniquely diverse, commanding, and genre-bending experience that evokes all the feels.

Speaking to Newshub, Tiki revealed: “Sometimes there are 40-50 people involved in playing the music, which takes it to another level—a level that is powerful, it's unforgettable, it's moving, it's emotional, it has so much depth to it and width to it. For me, it's the pinnacle.”

With familial links to the CSO going back several generations, a special moment is shared with the audience when Tiki welcomes his talented tamariki Charlie (then 12), and Karcia (then 9) to join him to perform on stage, a sweet remembrance to be cherished by the Taane whānau for years to come.

An Artist, Producer, Activist, Engineer, and now Director, Tiki Taane has long been an energetic creative who has followed his own light, creating his reality every step of the way by allowing his unfettered artistic and musical talents to shine brightly. Now, with this self-funded, cross-cultural, cross-generational, cross-musical genre project, Tiki positively radiates!

Says Tiki: "This feature documentary film has been the most challenging project I’ve ever under taken. Being the film’s director, producer, sometimes editor, sound mixer, composer, leading musician, and project manager is a LOT to commit too! But the things I’ve learnt along the way are priceless and worth the thousands of hours and years of preparation to get me to this point. I’m so proud of what we have captured and have managed to put together in an exciting, genre bending experience for all to see. Thank you so much for supporting my music and art. YOU are part of our Tikidub Whānau, so let's see how far we can take this thing!"

Now film-festival audiences can experience this multi-talented musician at his very best - look out for the latest update of nationwide screenings of Tiki Taane In Session With CSO still to be announced through the months of August and September, with a very special Auckland event also to be revealed soon.

CHAII - DRIPPIN IN GOLD

Persian-New Zealand artist, songwriter and producer CHAII returns with her commanding new single and video, “Drippin In Gold” - out now via Particle Recordings & BMG

CHAII’s first release since her acclaimed 2021 EP, Pineapple Pizza, “Drippin In Gold” delivers a powerful statement to her success, hustle and cultural pride. Produced by Frank Keys, who also collaborated with CHAII on her previous releases ‘Lightswitch’ EP & ‘Pineapple Pizza’ EP.

The single's accompanying music video sees nostalgic elements of Iranian culture intertwined with cherished childhood memories. Shot in Los Angeles - a city renowned for its thriving expat Iranian community - the clip pays homage to CHAII's motherland, Iran, and captures the essence of her personal story. With the inclusion of a Pakyan - a classic Persian car- cruising towards a golden mansion, CHAII looks towards a future of greatness whilst showcasing the significance of how her roots have played such an important part in her journey there.

Speaking to “Drippin In Gold”, CHAII notes: "Drippin in Gold” is all about staying laser-focused on your dreams no matter what obstacles come your way. It's a constant reminder to never settle for anything less and to hustle relentlessly towards your goals. Embrace your culture, shine like gold!”

On bringing the video to life, CHAII shares, "Filming this music video in Los Angeles has been an incredibly personal and transformative experience for me. I wanted to pay homage to my Iranian heritage and capture the essence of my childhood memories. The streets and landscapes of LA stirred up nostalgic feelings of my motherland, I wanted to share that part of my life." 

A multi-faceted creative and a genre-bending musician, CHAII’s discography has traversed the realms of R&B, hip-hop, electronica and more. Her last release, 2021’s Pineapple Pizza EP, premiered to global audiences on Fortnite, and garnered local praise from Junkee, Purple Sneakers, Cool Accidents, 10 Magazine and AUD$ - alongside on-air support from SRN, triple j, FBi, 2SER, RRR and more. CHAII’s meteoric ascent began with the release of her 2020 debut EP, Lightswitch. A project that served as an introduction to CHAII’s inimitable creative vision, Lightswitch saw CHAII invited to perform at SXSW and be named Spotify’s first New Zealand based RADAR artist. In elevating her artistic universe, CHAII has soundtracked a Fendi campaign, seen a nomination in New Zealand’s 2022 Rolling Stone Awards, and has won sync placements across gaming and on-screen platforms - from FIFA 2021, Tony Hawk and EA Sports’ F1 22, to Ms. Marvel, Netflix’s Old Guard, Wellmania and Inventing Anna and a European campaign for car maker KIA.

Coming up, CHAII is set to perform at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Fan Zone in Auckland, New Zealand; an appearance that arrives alongside the news of CHAII’s music being approved for broadcast usage throughout the tournament.

Return to the voltaic world of CHAII today on “Drippin in Gold”, ahead of more to come very soon. 

Rodney Fisher and The Response present 'Keeping Up Appearances’ single & video

Rodney Fisher is delighted to announce the release of his second single created with The Response, ‘Keeping Up Appearances (feat. Terrible Sons)’ out July 21st, 2023. The single follows ‘ICU,’ released earlier this year.

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ features the talented Matt Barus (Terrible Sons) and explores feelings of being misunderstood, particularly as people pursuing something creative in a public way.

“Most of the album was complete, and I had been talking with Matt about the idea of writing something together,” says Fisher. “We got talking about life and our experiences of people close to us being misunderstood, particularly artists. That theme is prevalent in ‘Keeping Up Appearances.’ Many lyrics were lifted straight from the text conversation. The track evolved from voice memo to voice memo, with everyone contributing.”

The track is accompanied by a beautiful music video, shot at Te Atatu Peninsula and directed by Mike Braid.

“The music video was filmed at a spot where I go to clear my head and try to hit the reset button,” says Fisher. “I had been craving the feeling of painting somewhere without constraints. Art and music have become an extension of my everyday life, as I have recognized its value for well-being and how much of my identity is wrapped up in it. The cobalt blue paint marks in the video are taken from my notebook when I draw marks above words to help me understand, kind of like a musical shorthand. The blue relates to the color scheme in Facebook Messenger, where so much of the communication around this project (both song and video) has been from start to finish. It was an intentional decision to work and evolve the treatment as a way to continue the timeline of the writing process into the visuals.”

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ is the second track off the Goodshirt frontman’s upcoming album with The Response, Art School Dropout, and clearly holds a special place in his heart.

“This song feels special to me as it represents getting to know some dear friends through the most natural language we speak - music,” says Fisher. “The track explores the dangerous line of comparing yourself to other people and falling into depression, but also conveys a sense of picking yourself up and keeping going.”

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ releases Friday July 21st via Aotearoa New Zealand indie music label Bigpop Records.