LEE MVTTHEWS ANNOUNCE EXIT ALBUM TOUR OF AOTEAROA THIS APRIL-MAY

New Zealand’s hottest drum & bass act Lee Mvtthews are stoked to announce a three-date tour of Aotearoa in support of their brand new album Exit (out today via AEI).

Having last toured late last year on their ‘Back To The Clubs Tour’, the boys are stepping up and playing some of New Zealand’s finest rooms. Spread over three Saturdays, the tour begins on 20 April at The Great Hall Wellington, followed by the Christchurch Town Hall on 27 April.  The boys will then bring the house down at the iconic Auckland Town Hall on 4 May. Tickets for all shows are on sale now from leemvtthews.com

These shows will be full of energy from the duo who are excited to play in such prestigious venues.

“It’s not often you see a drum & bass act play venues such as the Auckland and Christchurch Town Hall. We are so stoked and excited to bring our brand new live set to life in these legendary venues. We’re, pumped, we’re ready, and hope all our fans are too!”  - Lee Mvtthews

Their new album Exit is a smorgasbord of dark and heavy rollers to uplifting dancefloor anthems. Featuring a culmination of tunes the duo have been writing and playing out over the last 3 years, Exit encompasses Lee Mvtthews love for drum and bass perfectly. Something for everyone.

Tickets for these shows are on sale now! Their last tour completely sold out in record time. Visit leemvtthews.com for all ticket information.

LEE MVTTHEWS
Exit Album Tour

Sat 20 Apr

Coastal Promotions Presents
The Great Hall | Wellington * R18
https://bit.ly/LMEXITWLG

Sat 27 Apr

Cream Presents
Christchurch Town Hall | Christchurch * R18

https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/Show.aspx?sh=LEEMVTT24

Sat 4 May

Eccles Entertainment Presents
The Town Hall | Auckland * All Ages

https://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/event/24006057973B14A5

KEITH PEREIRA RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE, “YEEHAW”

Find the “Yeehaw” on Spotify  - March 8th 

New Zealand has become a breeding ground for country artists of longevity and substance, and the newest name on the block is Keith Pereira. 

Ready to follow in the footsteps of Keith Urban, Kaylee Bell and Jenny Mitchell he is making inroads into Australia and around the globe with the release of his debut single, “Yeehaw” and it’s an absolute beauty!

While on the road to a gig, Keith realised he needed a ‘punchy sing along song’ that would get people stomping their boots right away. He started writing right then and there and the bones of “Yeehaw” were started on his phone’s voice notes.

Enter Caroline Jones. Yes, THAT Caroline Jones from Zac Brown Band. Keith had met her when he was an extra on the set of one of her music videos. He sent her the voice note of “Yeehaw” asking for her feedback. Much to his surprise, she loved the song so much that she offered to co-produce it with Aussie, Mike Avenaim. 

“The moment I heard “Yeehaw”; I was hooked. It’s catchy and clever, a combination that marks the best country party songs”, says Caroline. “Keith has a truly unique talent. He is a fantastic chicken pickin’ guitar player, a heartfelt and stylized singer, and a songwriter that delivers genuineness and wit”.

Mike continued, “Working with Keith on this track has been awesome. He’s very meticulous in a great way which really pushed me to get him the best results while producing and mixing the track. On top of this, his songwriting is just slamming!”

Together, Caroline and Mike assembled a powerhouse team including Keith Urban’s guitarist, Danny Rader and Australia’s Prince of Pedal Steel, Jy-Perry Banks, who have all added their distinctive flavour to the recording.

“I've literally breathed country music my entire life so, to finally be at the release of my first single is honestly, a dream come true. To have the support of Caroline and have her co-produce my song with Mike Avenaim plus have the best players contribute to this song, it really has gone way beyond that dream come true", says Keith.

Keith Pereira is a Kiwi Indian country singer, songwriter and guitarist. His love for country music started growing up in the Middle East, listening to his uncle’s country radio show in Abu Dhabi. He combines his rich country voice, guitar skills and energetic live performances with his influences from 90’s giants Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley and Vince Gill. The result is a slice of nostalgia while being fresh with a complete modern twist. It makes it uniquely Keith Pereira and brands him as one of the hottest new names to watch.

DHEM DROPS A GLOBAL LINEUP ON HIS NEW TRACK ‘MIDNIGHT FLEX’

DHEM has announced himself as an incredibly creative artist/producer/DJ to watch out for who is thinking outside the box within his music. Delivering this globally certified track, Titled ‘Midnight Flex’, it boasts features from TBG (Johannesburg, South Africa) and Benny the Greek (Sydney) and really captures the different cultures with 2 countries coming together.

Each artist shares their perspective on their past and current circumstances based on the pitfalls and vices of a relationship and the 5 principles of time management. With each verse telling a tale it showcases many layers of style and sound which come together in overlapping themes. The layering and construction of the song have been put under the spotlight and with each verse, with its blending genres of Australian Hip Hop, UK Grime, Afrobeat and Amapiano.

Since beginning his career as an artist/producer/DJ, DHEM has searched and now found authenticity in his creations. Now being respected by peers, his audience has been looking with intent as he thinks creatively outside the usual lanes.

With a music video on the way, the short clip will capture every artist from their hometown, which will then be chopped up into a stunning visual and solidify this song as a head-turner. Speaking on the music video DHEM shares with us:

I really enjoyed building this track and working with the artists”

Speaking on what this song means to DHEM and what he wants it to reflect about him he goes on to say:

“This track is a club bop, I am really excited to get this one out into the world”

DHEM has a really unique way of expressing his creativity and this song is a very strong take on a powerful message and continues to authentically solidify his vision as an artist/producer. This release will set him up for a big year in 2024, one that will see more features and more incredible music out of the Brisbane hip-hop scene.

LINKS

DHEM - MIDNIGHT FLEX (RADIO EDIT)

SPOTIFY

APPLE MUSIC

YOUTUBE

INSTAGRAM

Shepherds Reign to open for Disturbed at Spark Arena

The anticipation is building as the hard-hitting metal band, Shepherds Reign, announces their highly anticipated opening performance for the legendary rock group, Disturbed, at Spark Arena on March 15, 2024.

Taking the stage at Spark Arena, one of New Zealand's premier music venues, Shepherds Reign will set the tone for the unforgettable evening, delivering an adrenaline-fueled performance that will leave fans craving for more. Their set will feature Polynesian dancers and percussion players as well as fire dancers from Wahine Toa Siva Afi.

"We are beyond excited to be opening for Disturbed," says Shepherds Reign frontman Filivaa James. "It's a dream come true for us to share the stage with such an iconic band. We can't wait to bring our energy and passion to the Auckland crowd and show them what Shepherds Reign is all about."

Hailing from South Auckland, Shepherds Reign is a band of Pacific, Maori, and Asian descent. They have quickly gained recognition for their electrifying live performances and signature blend of Polynesian culture with heavy metal music. With their powerful stage presence and unique sound, Shepherds Reign has captured the attention of both local and international audiences.

Known for their chart-topping hits such as "Le Manu" and "Aiga," Shepherds Reign has been making waves in the music industry. Their sophomore album, ALA MAI, was released in August of last year, receiving critical acclaim from fans and music critics alike. The album showcases their unique fusion of heavy metal and the traditional rhythms of the Pacific, further establishing their place in the music scene.

Disturbed, a multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated rock band, needs no introduction. With over 17 million records sold worldwide, six RIAA certifications for their albums (including 5× platinum for The Sickness), singles from all eight albums reaching the top ten of the Mainstream Rock chart, and two Grammy Award nominations, Disturbed ranks alongside Slipknot and Godsmack as one of the most successful rock bands of the 21st century.

The collaboration between Shepherds Reign and Disturbed promises to be an unforgettable experience for metal and rock enthusiasts alike. Fans can expect an evening filled with raw energy, exhilarating guitar solos, and a powerful display of musical talent.

Tickets for the Shepherds Reign and Disturbed concert are available now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness two powerhouse bands unite on one stage for a night of pure rock and metal madness.

For more information about Shepherds Reign, please visit www.shepherdsreign.com.

Rising star Sam Heselwood releases emotive new single ‘I Remember’

LISTEN TO ‘I Remember’ HERE

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

While taking his music to the international stage in London, Darfield-raised Sam Heselwood has today released his new soulful ballad ‘I Remember’.

The emotionally charged single, written and produced alongside Joel Jones (Macey, Will Swinton, Balu Brigada) and Alex Stacey (Ella Henderson, OneRepublic) is the result of “just wanting to pour my heart out into something.” After a whirlwind session of just 4 hours at Auckland’s Parachute Studios, Sam says he drew inspiration from a heartbreaking fictional scenario of his partner passing away. Using music for both expression and comfort, Sam hopes that ‘I Remember’ will be “whatever the listener needs it to be. Whether you’ve lost someone, missing someone, or just need to pour your heart out.”

Made with the support of NZ On Air, ‘I Remember’ follows the release of Sam’s 2023 EP HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS and the raging success of single ‘Home’ (#1 Hot NZ Singles Chart, over 1 million streams on Spotify, ZM, The Edge). Sam says today’s release explores a different part of his artistic growth by “showing I’m able to stand alone with a piano ballad and not hide behind huge production.”

Also released today is a stunning music video filmed by Sam and his partner Sophie and edited by previous collaborator Gordon Duff. Shot in the serene Cotswolds, England, the video follows Sam as he walks and sings his way through the countryside, while incorporating still shots of the world around him. Sam says the clip hopes to “convey the simplicity and beauty of the song, while reflecting on time spent with a significant other”.

About Sam Heselwood

Rugby player turned songwriter Sam Heselwood has quickly sky-rocketed to Kiwi fame. Exploring themes of family, love, and mental health, Sam is trying to break down boundaries through his music. With each release, Sam showcases his versatility as a songwriter, blending elements of folk, rock, and pop to create a sound that is uniquely his own. Growing up in rural Darfield, he wrote his first song at 19, and became a finalist at the Golden Guitar awards for his song ‘High Off Love’ at 21.

Since then, he’s released 3 EPs and various singles with incredible success. His single ‘Home’ debuted No 1 on the NZ Hot Singles Chart and placed on the NZ RadioScope Most Added + NZ charts. He’s placed No 4 on the NZ Hot Singles Chart and no 29 on the NZ Top 40 Singles Chart for his 2022 single ‘18’, and he’s had strong support from radio (ZM Locals Only, The Edge). Sam’s had millions of digital streams - including 3 million on single ‘Book Full of Answers’ and over 1 million on single ‘Home’; received back-to-back single funding and support from NZ on Air; and featured on playlists Coffee + Chill (500k), Spotify’s Fresh Finds (1m), Spotify’s Fresh Finds Pop, Spotify’s Fresh Finds AU & NZ, Apple Music’s New, Music Daily, Apple Music’s A-List Pop, Apple Music’s New in Pop!

FIND SAM HESELWOOD

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK

 YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE

Aotearoa Indie-folk artist Fraser Ross unveils stunning title-track single ‘Thunderhead’ ahead of new album!

Listen HERE

Watch video HERE

Pre-save album HERE

Ōtautahi indie-folk artist Fraser Ross has today released the title track single and music video from his much-anticipated upcoming album ‘Thunderhead’.

A mesh of folk, indie and soft-rock - with the perfect balance of melancholia and hope, ‘Thunderhead’ is set to become another successful track in Fraser’s discography. Following the success of recently released single ‘Cards’ (NZ On Air NewTracks, RDU, Radio One, The Most FM), today's track is sure to build even more excitement for the artists new album THUNDERHEAD - out March 22 - pre-save HERE.

‘Thunderhead’ is a deeply personal reflection written as a documentary of Frasers travels throughout America, and the experience of leaving a family. Named after Thunderhead Artist’s Refuge in Montana, a camp that brings artists together in the spirit of natural building and campfire jamming - and the place Fraser wrote the track mid-travels.

“My experience at Thunderhead was one of recovery and redirecting,” explains Fraser, “It was the physical and metaphorical place I turned around and stopped running away from the guilt of leaving.” ‘Thunderhead’ carries the emotional weight of this turning point for Fraser, with reflective lyrics and expressive instrumentation, while a warmth in Lee Prebble’s mixing emulates a bright optimism for what the future holds. Made with the support of NZ On Air, the track was recorded at Surgery Studios Wellington and mastered by Mike Gibson.

Also released today is a stunning music video which Fraser hopes will further “illustrate the song's journey of moving on”. Filmed with good friend Robyn Jordaan, the clip follows Fraser on a turbulent journey through Christchurch via electric scooter, collecting various clothes and memorabilia en route. Shots of Fraser cruising down wide roads, sitting atop a chest of drawers and the scooter, were inspired by seeing someone do just that! “It was just the funniest, most resourceful thing I’d seen,” says Fraser. “I thought the visual metaphor of moving house by sitting on your clothes while riding a scooter might make an accurate theatrical representation of the song.”

Complete with epic shots of clothes and a scooter being flung off New Brighton Pier at sunset, both the ‘Thunderhead’ music video and single are charming insights into Fraser’s quirky sense of humour and paint beautiful imagery for moving on.

About Fraser Ross

Fraser Ross is a Christchurch-based folk musician who has traveled the world playing and supporting bands including Phoenix Foundation, Nathan Haines, and Nadia Reid. His EPs, AND BIRDS DO SING (2009) and TO PLACES (2012) established him as a serious talent and a brilliant, loud-shirted presence within the New Zealand underground. Numerous shows, time in Scotland, and two Albums - MONGRELS (2015) and LIFE IS MAGIC, WHERE IS MY RABBIT? (2018) - later, he has built a dedicated following in both the UK and New Zealand. Dubbed a 'Kiwi Billy Connolly' for his tongue-in-cheek stage presence, he'll mix a light-hearted quip with a lonesome tune no problem. Fraser has played at numerous arts festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, LitCraw (Verb) Wellington, the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival, Wellington City Summer Sounds, and the Christchurch Nostalgia Festival. With today's release, and the success of recent single ‘Cards’ from his highly anticipated album THUNDERHEAD, set to be released in the coming weeks, there is no doubt that Fraser Ross has secured his place in the Aotearoa music scene.

Find Fraser Ross

Facebook | Instagram | Youtube
Spotify | Bandcamp | Website | Apple Music

Banana Mundo Announces the Release of Their New Single "Driving Around" - A Funk-Latin Fusion That Captures the Essence of Road Tripping

The vibrant and dynamic Taranaki based 9-piece band, Banana Mundo, is thrilled to announce the release of their latest single, "Driving Around". Known for their electrifying live performances and a unique blend of musical styles, Banana Mundo takes listeners on a journey with a song that encapsulates the freedom and exhilaration of hitting the road.
"Driving Around" is a lively, upbeat track that combines the infectious grooves of funk with the warm rhythms of Latin music, creating a sound that is both fresh and nostalgic. The song aims to evoke the joy and adventure of embarking on a road trip, capturing the sense of escape and discovery that comes with driving through unknown landscapes.
Banana Mundo has always stood out for their ability to merge diverse musical genres into a cohesive and compelling sound. With "Driving Around", the band continues to push the boundaries, offering a track that is not only a testament to their musicianship but also a celebration of life's simple pleasures.
Front man André Manella said, "With 'Driving Around', we wanted to create a soundtrack for those moments when you just want to escape the routine and explore the world around you. It's a song for anyone who's ever felt the thrill of the open road and the freedom it represents."
Recorded with the energy and passion that Banana Mundo is celebrated for, "Driving Around" features the band's full nine-piece lineup, including horns, percussion, and a rhythm section that brings the song's vibrant textures to life.
The single is now available across all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to kick off their own journeys, whether literal or metaphorical.
Stay tuned for more music and live show announcements by following Banana Mundo on social media and their official website.
The band is celebrating the release with a short North Island tour with shows at the Awakino Hotel on Friday, the secret garden in Waihi Beach on Saturday and Music in Park in Auckland on Sunday. Tickets and details can be found on www.bananamundo.com

TAITE MUSIC PRIZE - FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

The Independent Music NZ (IMNZ) is excited to announce the finalists for the Taite Music Prize 2024 with the support of Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ. This prestigious honour will be presented on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024 alongside the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award, NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award, IMNZ Classic Record and the Independent Spirit Award. 

As we look forward to the 15th year of the Taite Music Prize in 2024, the coveted Taite Music Prize acknowledges outstanding creativity for an entire collection of music contained in one recording. The award highlights outstanding New Zealand albums released in the past year. The award is open to all genres of music and judged on artistic merit regardless of genre, sales, or record label. The prize winner will receive a cash prize of $12,500, thanks to founding partner Recorded Music NZ. 

A voting academy of all current members of IMNZ, musicians, and music industry personnel voted to produce the shortlisted finalist albums. An independent panel debates and scrutinises the shortlisted albums to decide the winner. That panel comprises musicians, journalists, and music industry professionals with a wide variety of different professional backgrounds and personal tastes.

The ten albums in contention for the 2024 Taite Music Prize span genres from hip hop to indie folk to metal and include some of Aotearoa's finest and pigeon-hole-defying musicians.

The 2024 Taite Music Prize finalists are:

Dick Move - Wet (1:12 Records)
Ebony Lamb - Ebony Lamb (Slow Time Records)
Erny Belle - Not Your Cupid (Flying Nun Records)
Home Brew - Run It Back (Years Gone By)
Mermaidens - Mermaidens (Independent)
Shepherds Reign - Ala Mai (Golden Robot Records)
Tiny Ruins - Ceremony (Ursa Minor)
Tom Lark - Brave Star (Winegum Records)
Unknown Mortal Orchestra - V (Jagjaguwar Records)
Vera Ellen - Ideal Home Noise (Flying Nun Records)

IMNZ Chairperson, Pippa Ryan-Kidd says, “IMNZ are proud to support this year's finalists.  Supporting independent music is vital for a music industry that is creative and diverse. These finalists are representative of the best in our landscape this past year, and we champion them!" 

Recorded Music NZ CEO, Jo Oliver says, “Recorded Music NZ are proud supporters of the Taite Music Prize, and we are delighted to once again honour the critical success of artists at the top of their game in partnership with Independent Music NZ."