VIËW & PHODISO ANNOUNCE UPCOMING ‘TWO STRANGERS’ EP & SHARE SECOND SINGLE ‘SOLO’ FEATURING CH! NONSO & MAZBOU Q

Longtime friends and now collaborators, VIËW and Phodiso, are excited to announce the release of their second single, ‘Solo’ ft. Ch! Nonso & Mazbou Q, from their upcoming collaborative EP titled, ‘Two Strangers.’ Set for release on 8 September 2023, ‘Two Strangers’ embodies their shared passion for music and their belief in the power of human connection.

‘Solo’ is more than just a song; it's a piece of art born from a very strange and isolating time. VIËW shares," The way ‘Solo’ came together started from the first week of lockdown back in 2020. I started doing a challenge where I made a beat or two everyday to help me mentally during lockdown. Sometime during that time I decided to start posting those beats to my instagram and the response to them was crazy with a lot of artists requesting beats. Phodiso requested “isolation day 3” which later morphed into ‘Solo’ a somewhat perfect amalgamation of struggling through and persevering even when it feels easier not to”

As a sneak peek into the EP, ‘Solo’ magnificently captures the synergy between VIËW's production and Phodiso's emotive vocals and introspective lyricism, accompanied by the remarkable contributions of Ch! Nonso and Mazbou Q. The single is a powerful reminder of the resilience found in human connection, and will resonate deeply with listeners and inspiring introspection about their own bonds.

The overarching theme of connection that courses through the EP is visually encapsulated by the color purple, symbolizing unity and boundless creativity. In celebration of the release of "Solo" and the upcoming EP, VIËW and Phodiso are engaging in collaborations with brands that share their vision of nurturing meaningful connections through art and music.

ARTIST BIO 

Welcome to the sonic world of VIËW and Phodiso. Production meets introspective lyricism, reshaping music in its unique blend. VIËW's music spans the airwaves, collaborating with Tom Scott and more. Phodiso's journey from bands to solo success culminated in 'The ACTs' EP series. Their upcoming EP, 'Two Strangers,' explores human connection and unity, delivering an emotive experience for listeners. With VIËW's innovation and Phodiso's vocals, 'Two Strangers' unites music and connection, inviting listeners to shared experiences.

ISLA RELEASES ETHEREAL SINGLE “LOW”

ISLA fully embraces a nightmare with the release of her next single “Low”. The track captures the disorientation of a panic attack in public.

STREAM HERE

“It’s freeing to write exactly how I feel, even when those emotions aren’t joyful. I’ve had a couple bad nights, and as the curtains close on my 20s I’ve been reflecting on them. Low is about a panic attack in public. How the room starts swimming and I can’t look at faces, and my ears fill up with cotton wool and train whistles all at once.”
ISLA is a sleepy singer-songwriter based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She found her feet as a performer when she attended an open mic hosted in a sea cave, and was inspired by the overwhelming talent the city has to offer. ISLA formed a band of cave people, and brought her ideas to life with the help of new friends. 

Supported by "band of sisters" The Kindred, ISLA is releasing her sophomore EP "Low" in September 2023. The dream-folk collection marks a new sound for ISLA. "Low" explores seasonal depression and the memories that drift by in winter.

TARANAKI SINGER-SONGWRITER LIANA HART REVEALS DEBUT SINGLE, ‘YOUR EYES’

Taranaki based country-folk singer-songwriter Liana Hart shares deeply personal sentiments by combining intricate vocal hooks and passionate, conversational lyrics, with finger-style guitar and delicate harmonica melodies. Her debut single ‘Your Eyes’ has now made contact with the world and she couldn’t be more excited. “The release of this song has been a long time coming; it’s very dear to me and I’m so ready for people to hear it, I’m so stoked that this beautiful track is finally out there for the listeners that need it”.

‘Your Eyes’ is a daughters’ love letter to her father. “It’s about wanting better for your parent and acknowledging the sacrifice they’ve made for you, and not wanting them to miss out on opportunities now that you’re all grown up”. The song delivers a heartfelt message, gently urging the listener to ‘be brave, make a mistake and take a chance’. Liana cradles this message with the utmost care and decorates each line with an essence so sweet and tender, it often reduces the listener to tears. “I’ve noticed the song always seems to make the dads in the audience tear up”. Featuring fiddle extraordinaire Krissy Jackson on violin and produced by audio engineer and wizard Sam Johnson at Rhythm Ace Studio (Ōakura, Taranaki), the track is a delightful blend of enchanting harmonies, charming harmonica, fiddle-style violin and acoustic finger-style guitar, all familiar sounds that lovers of country-folk music will adore. Each part dances around each other gracefully, forming a tune that brings comfort to the soul like a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cosy autumn morning. The single is now available to stream on all streaming platforms.

Social Media Links:

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

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lihartmusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6BzVgXc2yNPfmf3gvE7hUT

Bandcamp: https://lianahart.bandcamp.com/track/your-eyes

Māori NeoSoul, Pop and Funk artist MOHI Unveils Captivating Bilingual Single "Kārearea" as the Lead Track from Upcoming Album “Elements of Aroha”

Renowned Māori neosoul, pop funk artist MOHI is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of his latest single, "Kārearea." The waiata serves as the first single off his highly anticipated album, showcasing his unique blend of Māori cultural influences with soulful melodies, pop sensibilities, and funky rhythms.

"Kārearea" is a (reo rua)bilingual song that effortlessly weaves together the Māori and English languages, offering a musical journey that pays homage to ancestral stories. The track takes inspiration from a rich Māori ancestral pūrākau about the pursuit of aroha between Northern rangatira, Ueoneone and twin sisters and puhi Reitū and Reipae.

Through his soul-stirring lyrics and captivating vocal performance, MOHI brings this ancestral story to life, bringing this love story into the present through a play on words. The song seamlessly blends traditional Māori instruments and rhythms with contemporary production, resulting in a sound that is both deeply rooted and refreshingly innovative.

MOHI has established himself as an exceptional talent in the music industry, earning accolades and critical acclaim for his previous releases, Te Aroha Mauroa, Te Atarau and Tahuri Mai. His commitment to cultural preservation and representation has garnered widespread recognition, and "Kārearea" serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication.

With its infectious melodies, heartfelt storytelling, and irresistible grooves, "Kārearea" is poised to captivate listeners from all walks of life. MOHI invites audiences on a musical journey that transcends sonic boundaries, celebrating the beauty of Māori language, culture, and offers insight into the pursuit of aroha in pastimes and how we understand aroha today.

The release of "Kārearea'' marks an exciting milestone for MOHI and sets the stage for his upcoming Album “Elements of Aroha” a fusion of Māori neosoul, pop, and funk influences, poised to redefine and elevate the global music scene. 

Alongside “Kārearea” MOHI also announces his first national tour set to kick off in November this year which promises to be one of the most transcending live experiences from this quickly rising superstar. MOHI and his 6 piece band will be touring four special locations around Aotearoa: Dates and venues coming soon.  

"Kārearea" is now available on all major streaming platforms. For more information about MOHI and his latest projects, please visit:

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

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7Js2UhLghB9qaiZRfK275R

Pōneke Modern Folk Quartet Octopus In Heels Release Debut Single 'Keeping My Body" into the world

All-femme, power-house folk quartet Octopus in Heels are proud to present their debut single "Keeping My Body" into the world. Keeping My Body explores themes of body sovereignty and identity in a world of expectations and systems that profit from them. This song brings together the best of the musicians of Pōneke in music to celebrate community and bodily autonomy. The single came to life at Surgery Studios with the help of Tiny Triumph Recordings, who chose "Keeping My Body" as the winner of their annual competition they run as a part of New Zealand Music Month providing an artist or group with free recording and production, paired with mastering by K0G studios, and a free music video shot and edited by Studio Halfgray.

Each member has an eclectic musical background. Drawn together they create original tunes inspired by the 70's NY folk scene, with modern influences. Songs are built on four-part vocal harmonies, supported by an array of sounds including guitar, ukelele, woodwinds, cello, percussion, and double bass.

Octopus in Heels brings together longtime friends and collaborators Eliza Pickard, Victoria Ferry, Phoebe Johnson, and Elizabeth Hocking to share their love of song and storytelling.

"Keeping My Body" features the voices of local Te Whanganui-a-Tara wāhine and non-binary musicians on the hook and final choruses of the track - all chanting together.

"The light is coming through / it's coming all the way to you they won't take my body /they won't take my body".

DV Releases "Back of You" and Announces Upcoming Audio Visual Album "Trust Issues," set for release during NZ Pride Month

Trigger Warning - Domestic Abuse. Auckland-based artist ADV has today released his second single, ‘Back of You,’ as part of his upcoming audiovisual album titled‘Trust Issues,' scheduled for release during New Zealand Pride Month.’ This heart-wrenching alternative pop single is paired with a captivating music video directed by Kelsey Chapman, co-produced by ADV (Alex de Vries) and Kelsey Chapman. 

At the core of ‘Trust Issues’ lies a central question: What happens after the end of a toxic relationship? Can we find solace and even dance in the afterglow? Questions and themes the artist explores in the upcoming album.

Produced by Noah Page ‘Back of You’ is a powerful exploration of toxic love. The anticipated 8-track visual album delves into themes of vulnerability and self-discovery, all told through a queer lens.

The artist shares “During the bridge, multiple voices join in, providing a sense of confirmation and community support for the victim looking to escape a bad situation…. it's an empowering track even though it's about something that's so dark." 

Following the release of his debut single ‘Bubble Bath’, ADV continues to bring more queer stories and narratives into the mainstream.

(New Zealand) If you or someone you love is an LGBTQIA+ victim of abuse, call the Rainbow Youth on 09 376 4155 or Family Action on 09 836 1987 or 0800 326 327.

Aotearoa artist Michèle Ducray unveils relatably quirky new single, ‘Ace Of Spades’ + announces greatly-anticipated debut EP

Wanaka-based dark-pop artist Michèle Ducray has released her hook-laden, relatable new single, ‘Ace of Spades’, out today. With today’s release comes the announcement of her debut EP, set for release on October 6.
Listen to ‘Ace Of Spades’ HERE

Lighter in tone to Michèle’s recognisable dark-pop vibe, ‘Ace of Spades’ is a fun, quirky and carefree way of exploring “what you will and won’t take in a relationship”. The track’s satisfying half time feel rhythm section creates the perfect bed for Michèle’s outstanding pop vocals to take center stage; stacked with catchy ad libs and backing vocals to support the hook-laden melody.

“The song was inspired by a rejection I felt from a guy a while ago, and more generally about the difficulties I have had in maintaining relationships,” explains Michèle. “I’ve clearly been more into the person, than they have me! It relatedly reflects the intensities and rejections of romantic relationships and compares it to a ‘poker game’ in which the highest card of the deck is pulled, so the ‘player’ will leave the game (i.e. the relationship).”

Produced, mixed and mastered at Liam Quinn’s studio in Sydney, Australia, ‘Ace of Spades’ brings a lighter pop feel to Michèle’s music, showcasing the versatility, skill, and the many sides to this talented writer.
“This song treads a bit differently to my more dark stuff out there,” says Michèle. ”It’s my song for the people out there that have simply had enough and want to find someone that meets their well-deserved high standards. It’s still on par with my more magician, carny-loving vibes however; I love alluding to the relationship as a sort of poker theme.”

Today’s release comes after a string of singles from the typically dark-pop artist, recently releasing her slick single ‘Psycho’, which received widespread local support from the likes of The Edge, ZM, and The Project. Previous to this piece of pop goodness was the brilliantly crafted single and video ‘Monster’.

Based in Wanaka, Michèle was raised in South Africa, China and Christchurch. She has worked with Simon Gooding (Dua Lipa, Pink), Pacific Heights (Drax Project, Shapeshifter), Liam Quinn (Delta Goodrem, Rita Ora), and DJ RUEBIK. Signed to Antipodes Records, her music has been featured on some of NZ’s biggest radio stations and recently performed at 2023’s Bay Dreams and ZM’s Electric Avenue. A self-confessed "fan of the peculiar", Michèle is inspired by mysterious and sinister themes such as horror and the colourful characteristics of circus life. Her sound is characterised by a mix of intoxicating vocals, deep drum & bass, and lucid pop melodies for a melancholic yet energetically upbeat immersion of seductive tones.

Get ready for her debut EP out on October 6, and in the meantime, feel the validation of today’s release ‘Ace of Spades’. As Michèle says, “if you ever feel played or like you’re not being treated as how you deserve in a relationship, time to move on! There’s someone out there that wishes they had someone like you and would do way more than the bare minimum. We need to raise that bar again!”

Listen to ‘Ace Of Spades’ HERE

Rachel Leo hits home run with new breakup anthem + video ‘In My Dreams’

Rising from the ashes of a friendship breakup, pop artist Rachel Leo has today released her third hit anthem ‘In My Dreams’.

Listen to ‘In My Dreams’ HERE

Bringing epic popstar vibes, ‘In My Dreams’ is a track to be blasted at parties, in clubs and cars. Similar to the vibe of Robyn’s ‘Dancing On My Own’ and LEON’s ‘You And I’, the lyrics are of heartbreak but the momentum moves through all the emotions. It’s got the drum beat and synth details reminiscent of European pop (Dagny, Zara Larsson, Astrid S) which the artist often draws inspiration from.  “The adlibs are pretty raw on this song,” says Rachel, “I’ve never been super comfortable with belting but after some encouragement from my producer Joel JonesI just let it rip!” ‘In My Dreams’ is about struggling to come to terms with the loss of an important person. For Rachel, this was the loss of a best friend through betrayal. “My entire identity and perception of my world was shattered overnight,” explains Rachel. “This is the friend breakup anthem I needed, and I hope it’s healing for someone else going through the same thing.”

The song was made with the support of NZ on Air, recorded at Joel Jones’ studio on Auckland’s North Shore and mixed/mastered by Liam Quinn (Peach PRC, Rita Ora, Ruel) in Sydney. “I actually produced the first demo of this song as an upbeat funk-inspired pop track with pretty generic lyrics. When I sent it to Joel, he challenged me to dig deeper and write something raw, changing the production to something more delicate. I cried as I wrote these lyrics, it was so cathartic. I can be quite protective of my work that bares my heart and I’m trying to get better at sharing that side of me with the world.”

Also being released today is a music video directed by LA WOMAN’s drummer Zac Emerson. “The concept of the video is to show the contrast between the joy I experienced in memories of our friendship, compared to the heartbreak I felt after.” For filming, the very committed star rose at 5am for filming at Auckland’s Piha Beach. “A person splashing around in a black dress certainly raised some eyebrows from people on their morning walks! We also filmed at a rollerskating rink and, it’s safe to say, I was truly humbled by the 5-year-olds zooming past me while I clung to the barriers - and for the last scene, we shot inside an empty house and accidentally set the fire alarm off a few times. The haze looks stunning on camera so it was well worth the panic!”

Watch the video HERE

Today’s release follows Rachel’s two previous hit singles, ‘Last Call’ - which she worked on with Drax Project - and shining debut ‘Conversation’. Deemed by many as New Zealand’s next pop export, Rachel Leo is one to watch. The 24-year-old is off to an impressive start with all of her releases landing on the Hot NZ Singles charts, features in major media outlets (NZ Woman's Day, TVNZ Breakfast, Newshub, MTV, and The Project), a following of 17,000 across socials and securing spots on the lineups of Soundsplash & Rhythm and Vines - no easy feat for an independent and self-managed artist. A 3-time recipient of NZ On Air funding and working with local pop legends including Liam Quinn (Peach PRC, Rita Ora), Alex Wildwood (The Veronicas, Broods) and Joseph Corban-Banks (Foley, LA Women), she’s got firm support from the industry. With placements on 13+ curated Apple, Spotify and YouTube playlists as well as airplay on BBC Radio 1, ZM and The Edge, she’s a name to remember!