Award-winning, Aotearoa folk artist Amiria Grenell unveils gorgeous new single and video, ‘Romeo’

Award-winning, Ōtautahi based folk singer and songwriter Amiria Grenell has released her dreamy new single and video ‘Romeo’, out today.
Listen to ‘Romeo’ HERE

A romantic earworm laced with melodic guitar lines and sweet vocal harmonies, ‘Romeo’ has an alt country and folk feel; giving a tasteful nod to 1950’s doo-wop with it’s 6/8 feel and chorus of male backup singers supporting Amiria’s blissful voice. Above all else, ‘Romeo’ is a playful song about dreaming up a person to love.
“I wrote it for all the incredible friends I know who are still searching for their person; it seems so complicated to find love in the modern age,” reflects Amiria. “The swing of the song is a nod to the old fashioned romantic idea of meeting someone by chance, in the ‘real world’.”
Written by Amiria, ‘Romeo’ was recorded and mixed by Ryan Fisherman at The Hut in Christchurch, and mastered by Mike Gibson in Wellington. “The song features a playful four part rhythm section that consists of Chris Wethey on bass, Ryan Fisherman on drums, Simon Gregory on guitar and Tom Harris on keys.”

Also out today is the dreamy accompanying video made by Martin Sagadin. Filmed in friends’ gardens, the visuals for ‘Romeo’ explore the meaning of love and connection in all its forms; be it through family, friends or growing a garden.
“We wanted to express how love is brought into our lives in different ways,” says Amiria. “Such as collecting flowers from friends and loved-ones gardens; seeing the love they had put into their homes and into their families; their inspiration of what love and family is. It was beautiful to witness.”

Watch the video for ‘Romeo’ HERE

Amiria is also hitting the road on a single release tour with fellow Ōtautahi musicians Saint Martins. For more information and tickets, head to Under the Radar.

11 August - Fairfield House - Nelson

12 August - Le Cafe - Picton

31 August - House Concert - Lake Hawea

1 September - Sherwood - Queenstown

2 September - Maggies - Dunedin

15 September - Pigeon Bay Social Club - Banks Peninsula

17 September - Space Academy - Christchurch

Winner of an Aotearoa Music Award for her 2011 album THREE FEATHERS and a finalist for the same award for her 2015 album AUTUMN, Amiria Grenell is an Ōtautahi folk singer and songwriter with a crystalline voice finely balancing gentle restraint and emotive strength. Daughter of legendary country musician John Grenell, Amiria grew up on a farm in Whitecliffs, Canterbury, where her family hosted decades of music festivals in the back paddocks. She has followed her heritage into a colourful and long-standing career as a touring artist and respected songwriter, and returns in 2023 with her latest work, beginning by releasing the romantic new single ‘Romeo’.
Dive into the soundscape of this incredible Aotearoa artist by listening to ‘Romeo’, and get ready for more to come.

Listen to ‘Romeo’ HERE
Watch the video for ‘Romeo’ HERE

Award-winning Aotearoa artist AJA releases moving te reo Māori waiata + video ‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’

LISTEN HERE

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Aotearoa award-winning singer-producer AJA (Ngāti Raukawa, Te Ati Awa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Porou) has today released her moving new te reo Māori waiata + beautiful video ‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’.

This heartfelt, indigenous RnB waiata pays tribute to the profound love AJA holds for her ancestral home in Waikanae on the Kāpiti Coast. Written by her Uncle Kahu Ropata, AJA’s older sister Trey Ropata composed the tune which was then developed by AJA, Kahu and Natasha Ropata - making ‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’ a very special taonga to their whānau.

The waiata speaks of knowledge passed down through wānanga and encourages listeners to immerse themselves in the distinct language of Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai - the marae and iwi to which AJA belongs. It celebrates the revival and preservation of knowledge, language, tikanga and traditions - beautifully capturing the deep connection to roots and treasures of language. “The lyrics symbolise the plume of knowledge that spans the heavens,” says AJA. “‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’ is like ‘...te paki o Matariki…’ an adornment in the sky; a brooch worn by Ranginui (the Sky Father) himself. This song is a product of the vast wisdom inherited from generations before.”

‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’ was made with the support of Te Māngai Pāho and NZ on Air; recorded in the Wellington home studio of producer, singer and musician, Mara TK (Electric Wire Hustle, Meeting House Records); and mastered by Bennytones (Ben Horton) of Organik Music.

Also being released today is a captivating piece of cinematography that brings this special waiata to life visually. Filmed at Whakarongotai, full of whānau and iwi, this immersive video was directed by Tola Newbery, filmed by Isaac Te Reina and Tama Kawha - who also edited it. The video transports viewers to the heart of an authentic family gathering. Through both direction and cinematography, it skillfully captures the unfiltered vitality of AJA’s people - showcasing belonging, identity, and the enduring power of Māoritanga. “This was a special whānau gathering at our marae during the covid pandemic,” says AJA. “We were able to shoot this video and capture the importance of whanaungatanga during a hard time.”

‘Te Reo ki Whakarongotai’ is the latest in a line of impressive releases and shows from AJA, including her recently released single ‘Feel It’ (RadioScope Alt Chart, SRN Chart, NZ on Air New Tracks, RNZ, Mai, Whakaata Māori), headlining Newtown Festival, performing at Cuba Dupa, the Matariki Awards and opening Kia Mau Festival. AJA (Aja Wairere Ropata) is an industry professional in both Māori education and music. In Matariki 2019 AJA released her debut single 'Non-Handler', followed by her second single 'Kāwai' in NZ Music Month 2020. In 2022 she was presented with the esteemed APRA Maioha Silver Scroll Award for waiata ‘Te Iho’ - which was composed alongside Byllie-Jean and Chris Wethey. First-time finalist and winner, AJA says it was another proud moment elevating contemporary waiata reo Māori. AJA’s voice and musical arrangements speak to a wide audience. With a much-anticipated debut album being worked on alongside Mara TK, AJA is an artist to follow!

SHAPESHIFTER Announce New Single ‘AMOKURA’

“For me, ‘Amokura’ celebrates my heritage, it’s a connection to my homeland. I hope my ancestors are happy”
- Paora Apera (P.Digsss’)

To celebrate Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki 'Āirani - Cook Islands Language Week, Sunday, 30 July to Saturday, 5 August 2023 - world-renowned live drum & bass group Shapeshifter announce a brand new single ‘Amokura’ set for release Friday, 4th August 2023. 

Pre-order/pre-save ‘Amokura’ here:  https://shapeshifter.lnk.to/Amokura

‘Amokura’ is a big electronic, jungle, island drum & bass track, synergizing Shapeshifter's energy and sonic palette with Cook Island traditional drums.

The single honours the rhythms of the Cook Islands; the pate drums were recorded in Rarotonga by Paora Apera’s brother and cousins about five years ago when the Shapeshifter lads became transfixed by the Cook Island rhythms on a trip to Rarotonga. At the time, there wasn’t a plan for the recordings, and they sat in the archives until the idea came up to record a Cook Island Māori song - inspired by The Waiata Anthems movement.

The vocals are in te reo Māori Kūki 'Āirani. The lyrics are a modern take on a song from Paora's childhood sung at all family celebrations from 21st birthdays to haircuttings. ‘Amokura’ is the migrational seabird representing the Pacific people's travel through the islands. The lyrics welcome the Amokura back to the island.

TUROU TUROU TUROU 
OROMAI OROMAI OROMAI 
OROMAI KI RUNGA ITE TA'UA NEI     
I KONEI TATAU TAMATAORA 
IIIIEEEE 

Apera muses, “I’ve been a musician for 35 years, and everything has always been in English, except when we did Waiata Anthems, our first non-English tune. Now we’re returning to my homelands a bit more; it feels amazing.” He continues, “We want to let the next generation know if we can try it, you can too. I hope it inspires young people everywhere.”

Adds Sam Trevethick, “Creating Amokura was a truly magical experience. I feel honoured to be included in Cook Islands culture and music. The languages and rhythms of the Cook Islands are inspiring in the deepest way.”

This year’s theme for ‘Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani – Cook Islands Language Week is 'Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea, which means, "connect me to the traditions & culture of my homeland".

It is important to Paora to try and raise awareness for te reo Māori Kūki 'Āirani - his ancestor's language, via his language, music. It is part of Paora’s journey to deepen his bonds with his people and culture.

Paora's parents and five older siblings were all born in the Cook Islands. Paora was born and raised in Aotearoa, he spent some time living in Rarotonga when he was of primary school age. He now takes every opportunity to return to connect with his heritage and culture, much like the Amokura. 

For more information about Cook Island Culture and to make connections please visit: https://www.mpp.govt.nz/programmes/pacific-language-weeks/cook-islands-language-week/

Shapeshifter Live Dates: 

White Out, Methven - 26 August 2023 

SnowMachine, Queenstown - 5-10 September 2023 

Beach Break, Whangamata  - 5 January 2024

https://shapeshifter.co.nz/

CAITLIN embraces vulnerability and letting go in ‘Light Leak’: new natural indiepop single and music video

Caitlin Bradley (CAITLIN) is an emerging songwriter in indie-pop music scene, known for her sonic and lyrical maturity, infectious energy, and her ability to win over audiences with captivating performances. Her hit single "We're Starting a Fire" has become a sensation, with its catchy melody and beat inspiring fans around the world.

Caitlin has a great sense of representing emotion and stories sonically, working closely with her producers. Her musical maturity is especially showcased in her upcoming track ‘Light Leak’, with sounds that allude to production styles of Ethan Gruska and Bon Iver. The indie folk-pop tune carries strong lyrical and melodic songwriting that stands as a strong contender in her genre.

Born and raised in New Zealand in a musical family, Caitlin immersed herself in music, song writing at a young age. Her catchy alt-pop anthem, ‘We’re Starting A Fire’ went viral on TikTok in 2022, growing her a loyal, global fanbase with many listeners in the US & UK. The song's infectious beat and catchy chorus captured listeners from a short TikTok video. The song sits nicely amongst the works of two of her key alternative-pop influences: Maggie Rogers and Haim.

Since the release of "We're Starting a Fire," Caitlin has continued to push the boundaries of indie-pop music, exploring new sounds, and incorporating elements of genres such as jazz, country, and rock, while staying true to her storytelling roots. Her debut EP ‘States’ (2022) was described as “a collection (of songs) which is mature and seems far beyond her years until one realises both her parents are full-time musicians.”.

Her upcoming single ‘Light Leak’ is out August 4th, produced by Will McGillivray (Goodwill, Nomad), is set to be a fan-favourite with her most vulnerable lyrics, intimate vocals, and sensitively crafted production yet.

“Light leak is my most vulnerable song yet. I’m telling a story of letting go of a sweet future you imagined and held dearly, accepting your fate, and walking away from it with a bittersweet taste.”

“The video is full of free-movement and lush nature near my home in Aotearoa (New Zealand). Singing, moving, writing, and fresh air helps me process big emotions; Light Leak shares that process with my listeners.”

MOUNTAIN BOY REFLECTS ON FATHERHOOD IN HIS LATEST OFFERING ‘DAIS’

Mountain Boy delivers his sweetest offering yet with ‘Dais,’ the fourth chapter in a series of songs that the multi-instrumentalist and producer has released over the past few months.

‘Dais’ is a letter of love and guidance from a father to a daughter. In a more intimate light, the Waikato-based artist lets us into his journey of fatherhood and grappling with his own shortcomings, reflected in his daughter.

“There’s nothing like a wee one to make you release how flawed you are, and that process is a beautiful and difficult one.”

Delivered with a simplicity and tangible sweetness, Mountain Boy’s tender voice and guitar playing shine through on the track. Accompanying this is the lyric video for the song, featuring footage of where his daughter is growing up. An official music video for the track will be released next Friday, 4th August.

‘Dais’ is out Friday, 28th June on all streaming platforms.

Haz & Miloux present Brunette EP and latest single ‘March 12’

Haz (Haz Beats, Niuean/ Tongan, South Auckland, Otahuhu) and Miloux (Rebecca Melrose), the award winning dream team, are back together again. Their much anticipated EP Brunette, alongside the final single and stunning  music video ‘March 12,’ are released today

‘March 12’ is described by Miloux as “a letter to my younger self, a reassurance that pain or trauma doesn't have to dictate the rest of your life. It's ok that it might have held you back for a little while and to feel and acknowledge pain is not a weakness but a strength. Pain from the past doesn’t have to stop you from trusting or loving again. There's no shame in taking your time to heal.”

The ambitious and creative Mona Sanei directed the 'March 12' music video and Miloux describes the shoot as “an amazing experience as we had the best tight knit crew. It was shot over three days in heavy rain from Waiheke to Piha. Mona brought her vision to life beautifully with Māori award-winning cinematographer Taine Noble. She captured the feeling of isolation contained within the lyrics, as well as the beauty, stillness and peace of acceptance in the song.”

Along with the music video, ‘March 12’ ushers in Haz & Miloux's second EP Brunette. The pair describe the EP as a collection of songs written about daily life as artists. It is a window into that time of their lives.

“We've been sitting on this EP for a very long time,” says Miloux. “It feels good to finally send it out into the world. We're in a new phase of creating and are ready to share and perform this collection of songs with an extra level of introspection.”

 And the title? “I was blonde and now I'm brunette again,” Miloux laughs. “This EP is a reflection of this phase of our lives since our first EP, Blonde, and is a bit more natural and a return to our roots, musically."

Brunette follows 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 love letters to their influences, experiences and community.

Brunette EP alongside single 'March 12' releases Friday July 28th via New Zealand indie labelBigpop Records.

Aotearoa alt-pop artist Blake releases stunningly honest new single and video, ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’

Hot off performing as a featured artist for June’s NZ On Air Showcase, alt-pop artist Blake is back with an honest and intimate new single and video, ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’, out today.

Listen to ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’ HERE

A gritty cinematic alt-pop anthem, ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’ perfectly encapsulates the unsettling notion of being at a crossroad in life.  Swirling synths, emotive guitars and hook-laden backing vocals sonically mirror the subject matter, with Blake’s exceptional songwriting and textured vocals keeping listeners hooked throughout the song.

“I was trying to reconcile the fact things were going well in my career, while also harbouring intense feelings of anxiety around what my future might hold,” reflects Blake. “The song touches on themes of imposter syndrome and wanting to relinquish responsibility for yourself.”

Made with the support of NZ On Air, the track was recorded at Parachute Studios as well at Blake’s home studio, before being mixed by award-winning engineer Simon Gooding. Before arriving at the final version however, ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’ began after a friend spotted the potential for the song in Blake’s social feed.

“The initial inspiration came about whilst on a walk trying to clear my head,” explains Blake. “I was filming an Instagram story saying I felt as though I was on the verge of a breakthrough or a breakdown, and my friend Eliot replied saying it would make for a great song concept. I then came home, sat at the piano, and the chorus pretty much wrote itself!”

Also out today is the captivating accompanying video, co-produced by Blake herself along with Jolin Lee. Diving into a stunning visual representation of the music, the concept for the video is based on real and raw footage filmed by Blake and posted on Tiktok, after heading home from a night out at a house party.

“The video emulates my lived experience of walking home from a flat on Karangahape Road in Auckland; of processing feelings of being overwhelmed, and stuck at a crossroads,” says Blake. “In that moment, I really loved the quietness of what is usually a chaotic part of the city - feeding into feelings of trying to navigate something on your own.”

Watch the video HERE

Hailing from Queenstown, the now Auckland-based Blake is ascending quickly within the Aotearoa music scene. After spending five years in London honing her craft, she was nominated for ‘Best Vocalist’ at the 2017 Drum and Bass awards and has amassed over 10 million streams on Spotify on her feature tracks. Her 2022 solo EP SKEPTICAL garnered wide-spread support from local media including ZM, The Edge, TVNZ, Sniffers and more, with her single ‘CPU’ notably reaching #6 on the Hot 20 NZ Singles Chart.

Get to know Blake by absorbing today’s stunningly honest release, and be ready for more to come from this exceptional artist!

Listen to ‘Breakdown Breakthrough’ HERE
Watch the video HERE

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Mazbou Q Releases "Now I'm Whole"

Aotearoa-based Nigerian hip hop artist Mazbou Q has dropped his much-anticipated, powerful action movie soundtrack-esque anthem titled “Now I’m Whole”, the third single off his upcoming waterfall album 'The Sum of Unfinished Businesses.’

This cinematic track, reminiscent of "What's Up Danger" from the blockbuster film  "Enter the Spiderverse," is paired with a slow-motion music video directed by Gal Hochman ('Best of You ft. Cee Blu', 'Go and Be Free’), depicting core moments of Mazbou Q's past, projections of his future, and sobering scenes of his final days. 

‘Now I’m Whole’ comes off the back of the album’s previous afrobeat-inspired single ‘Follow My Lead ft. Magugu’ released earlier this year, and the synth-wave Hip hop single ‘Like Deja Vu” off the collaborative album NIGHTWAVES with Jessie Booth released in June. Both tracks debuted on Spotify’s editorial playlist “The Drip”, with ‘Follow My Lead’ also featuring on “Afro Fusion” and ‘Like Deja Vu’ on “Mellow Styles”.

Mazbou Q says the new single “is for everyone who believes their journey in life hasn’t made a whole lot of sense up until this point. I want them to understand that just like Superman’s power is only constrained by his level of self belief, your own potential is limited only by your imagination and willingness to accept and embrace everything that has made you, you"

The ex-Metal band frontman's fresh brand of highly syncable ‘Cinematic Hip hop' gained attention earlier this year with the release of the ‘METAHUMAN’ EP in collaboration with Kansas City based producer xJ-Will. The EP’s lead single “Lucky All Day” featured on an official promo campaign for the recent blockbuster hit movie Creed III. Mazbou Q also produced and performed the cinematic Drill track behind the campaign for Footlocker’s Nike TN Kombat sneaker release across social media, entitled “Feelin’iin Tune”.

‘Now I'm Whole’ marks a magnificent milestone in Aotearoa's music scene, unveiling an exciting new era of cinematic hip hop.

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