QueenB – writes a musical with the first 🧩out #15 Turtle
#15 Turtle - is a song about hiding under a shell. It’s a duo between the main character Veronica Solas (QueenB) and her Imaginary Friend (Maria Flores).
QueenB is an always evolving Russian/Kiwi artist.
Soon after quitting her House of Travel job, she jumped into a three-year singer-songwriter degree at Ara Music Arts. Her final year project was dedicated to writing a rock musical called YOU ARE THE BOSS!
As the title suggests, the musical is about taking control of your life and making life-changing decisions for yourself. YOU ARE THE BOSS is an inspiring story of a Russian immigrant woman chasing her dreams, while battling with the past traumas of domestic violence, suicidal thoughts and cultural prejudice.
The first musical number #15 Turtle will be released on 15th June 2024. The idea is to further work on the rest of the musical and release one single at a time with a number attached to it, so once all 20 songs are out, the listener can piece the whole story together like a puzzle 🧩.
#15 Turtle - is a song about hiding under a shell. It’s a duo between the main character Veronica Solas (QueenB) and her Imaginary Friend (Maria Flores).
QueenB takes lyric writing very seriously, she believes in honesty and openness without holding back! “When I first wrote Turtle, I was so ashamed to read the lyrics to anyone, it felt so vulnerable to admit that I had voices inside my head. I was worried people would think I was mad. But the more I wrote about my mental health struggles, the more I felt free and cured. Writing became my therapy, I could finally find my voice, amongst many voices that I had in my head, and choose the one that was helping me to come out and shine my light vs the one telling me no one gives a shit”.
Musically, you can expect a rock opera with a Middle Eastern twist and a bit of a gothic metal vibe.
Please visit Spotify or other streaming platforms to check out #15 Turtle.
King Cass mixs music and motivational talks, drills in a message with his new single ‘Hit Da Road’
The goal was to set out and make connections, collaboration, unite and spread a positive message. That was how it all went down for Christchurch Hip Hop artist King Cass on his recent Music and Motivation New Zealand tour. King Cass has also used Drill to be a way to express light fun, and positivity despite the reflection of the genre, and the counterpoints show on his release Hit Da Road.
The goal was to set out and make connections, collaboration, unite and spread a positive message.
That was how it all went down for Christchurch Hip Hop artist King Cass on his recent Music and Motivation New Zealand tour. An incredible journey, featuring 15 shows from cities to towns.
Collaborating with a range of talented New Zealand musicians (just to name a few) from supporting ‘The Nomad’ on his 25th year anniversary, creating 2 music videos with OneThree (GIS) and multiple studio tracks in various cities, including dropping April release ‘Unleashed’ with IR1E 3YED & ZNLA (AKL), the Gisborne crew 4010 joined the tour for 2 shows, there was a debut performance at Wingman Festival on Great Barrier Island that was a buzz and the convo‘s with venue owners and organisations across the country enjoyed the energy. All whilst creating a supportive and vibrant atmosphere at each stop.
Each event was impactful, keeping costs low to encourage less financial barriers, and making sure that each show included a tasteful line up with good clean music.
The Awakening motivational talks focused on High Schools where the discussions were about staying motivated, believing in one's goals, and emphasising the importance of being kind and stamping out bullying. If we can help at least one of those students to pursue their dreams we are winning, while also providing them with tools that they could use to take the next steps where needed.
Some highlights across the tour:
Meeting the King Cass fanbase and making each show unforgettable for them
Building whakawhanāungātanga through the connections made along the journey
Spending time in the community visiting local shops and eateries (doing food reviews)
Creating an atmosphere encouraging manaakitanga with the other artists on each of the shows. It wasn't just about turning up and doing the show, but breaking bread and spending time getting to know each other.
Growth is a big one, meeting new people has increased listenership and reach across Aotearoa.
Performing new music on the road, performing tracks featuring artists in those different cities.
Interacting and engaging with various High Schools, there is a real powerful energy sharing that space and being able to shift mindsets and through music and the tough subjects.
The tour successfully increased awareness just how music is the universal language. Attendees left the events feeling inspired, motivated. The feedback was positive, with planning already underway to head back into these towns and expand over the summer.
The success of this tour has motivated us to continue spreading our message of passion, potential, and purpose, and to further promote mental health and wellbeing through our music and workshops.
Thank you to everyone who supported King Cass along the way—our fellow musicians, the incredible venue owners, the dedicated organisations, and most importantly, the amazing audiences who made this tour unforgettable.
What's next??
Ashburton will see ‘The Elements’ songwriting and recording workshop happening this July school holidays.
King Cass has an array of single releases this year before dropping a mixtape at end of 2024.
A Canterbury schools tour is in the works.
Summer festivals are on the cards, and and we get planning on what a Summer tour looks like for 2025
King Cass drills in a message with his new single ‘Hit Da Road’
King Cass finds Drill to be a way to express light fun, and positivity despite the reflection of the genre, and the counterpoints show on his release Hit Da Road.
King Cass is moving around the country after manifesting his bold and brave ideas,and the storyline behind this catchy Hip Hop/Drill single with its iconic kiwi attributes will tell you exactly what King Cass has been up to over the past 12 months.
His last single Old Days hit number 2 on the NZ Hot Single charts in Oct 2023 and following on from that success, Hit Da Road has been received well at recent live events where King Cass has performed it and it has been an anticipated release by many.
‘Hit Da Road’ isn’t like any ol Drill track, no, it doesn't push profanity and the likes. King Cass is in this game to spread a positive light and make music for your kids to vibe to. Instead this is written from a story point of view, manifesting road trips and collaboration.
WEBSITE: www.kingcass.co.nz
SOCIAL MEDIA: @kingcassnz
SPOTIFY: https://shorturl.at/jnqrt
APPLE MUSIC: https://shorturl.at/fiLY9
YOUTUBE: https://shorturl.at/HK235
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/kingcassnz
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/kingcassnz
Triggar Happy Announces the Release of "I'm Going Home"
Get ready to embark on a journey of raw emotion and powerful storytelling as Triggar Happy gears up to release his latest single, "I'm Going Home."
Get ready to embark on a journey of raw emotion and powerful storytelling as Triggar Happy gears up to release his latest single, "I'm Going Home," on June 14th across all major music platforms.
"I'm Going Home" is an evocative track that captures the essence of a lone rider's tumultuous journey towards redemption. With lyrics that weave a tale of being wrongfully accused and the relentless pursuit of freedom, the song resonates with anyone who has ever faced insurmountable odds.
The track opens with the poignant line, "I hear voices screaming my name, sometimes sunshine, sometimes rain," setting the stage for a gripping narrative. As the story unfolds, listeners are drawn into a world where arrows fly, riders call out names, and a winding, dusty track symbolizes the arduous path to vindication.
Triggar Happy's signature sound—a blend of gritty vocals, dynamic instrumentals, and heart-pounding rhythms—shines through in "I'm Going Home." HIs ability to convey deep emotion and vivid imagery through his music is unparalleled, making this release a must-listen.
“'I'm Going Home' is about resilience, the fight for justice, and the ultimate quest for home, whatever that may mean to each individual."
The release of "I'm Going Home" is set to make waves in the music industry, showcasing Triggar Happy's unique ability to blend storytelling with powerful musical compositions. Fans and new listeners alike can look forward to experiencing a track that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically compelling.
Be sure to mark your calendars for June 14th and join Triggar Happy on their unforgettable ride with "I'm Going Home," available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all other major music platforms.
Connect with Triggar Happy
Sam Fowles unleashes electrifying new single ‘Destination Unknown’
Sam Fowles has teamed up with Barnaby Weir (The Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties) to co-produce Fowles’s second single Destination Unknown set for release on Friday, June 7th, 2024.
Sam Fowles has teamed up with Barnaby Weir (The Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties) to co-produce Fowles’s second single Destination Unknown set for release on Friday, June 7th, 2024. The single will be independently released via DRM.
‘Destination Unknown’ invites listeners into another dimension of Fowles' style following up on his debut release, ‘Butterfly Baby.’ The track invites listeners to embark on a sonic journey, weaving through blues-drenched sunrises and funk-infused skies that have you grooving every step of the way to its infectious beat. Trippy electronic textures blend seamlessly with bouncing basslines, layered harmonies, and blazing electric guitars, culminating in an epic chorus. The song has an irresistible flow that demands your body's response.
Through soulful and personal vocal expressions, lyrically it explores the universal quest to find one's way amidst the complexities of life. “‘Destination Unknown’ is about choosing to let your internal compass guide you towards your higher purpose, and to be the light that leads the way on this journey we call life.” Says Fowles
The track was recorded at Massey Studios, Pōneke | Wellington, Aotearoa | New Zealand, engineered by Sam Fowles, Jonas Persson and Ryan Prebble, mixed by Lee Prebble (Surgery Studios), and mastered by Mike Gibson (Munki Studios). It is the second single off the Pōneke artists debut album 'After Dark.' Which is set for release in November this year.
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Midwave Breaks Announce Hometown Tauranga Show
Fresh from their recent nod as finalists for Best Rock Act at the Aotearoa Music Awards, Midwave Breaks are stoked to announce a special Hometown Show at Totara Street, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday July 13.
Fresh from their recent nod as finalists for Best Rock Act at the Aotearoa Music Awards, Midwave Breaks are stoked to announce a special Hometown Show at Totara Street, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday July 13.
The AMA finalist recognition is a fitting testament to the band’s creative impact across the NZ Rock Music landscape. With the release of their recent 3-track EP Standing Inside Out, and the honour of sharing the stage with international heavyweights Incubus and Live on their April NZ Arena Tour, 2024 is shaping up to be another busy year for the Tauranga Alt-Rock Duo.
The headline Totara Street show marks the band’s first hometown performance in over a year. Singer-guitarist Bruce Conlon, and Drummer Paul Russell have always been strong supporters of local talent, and this show is no exception. The Opening Act will be rising stars from Otumoetai High School, Bloody Overalls. This 3-piece heavy psych punk band promises a raw and improvisational energy on stage, aptly described as ‘Dirty, Nasty, Brilliant’.
This show also caters to both 18+ and supervised under 18 access, allowing younger high-school aged fans the chance to experience a full Rock and Roll show when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Midwave Breaks are excited to deliver their latest full length show, as well as continuing to shine a light on the next generation of emerging artists. Landing in the middle weekend of the July School Holidays, this should be locked in as a Bay Of Plenty Destination event - Road Trips fully encouraged.
Sort your crew, grab your tickets, and let’s get ready to make some beautiful noise!
Limited Early Bird Tickets available now from totarastreet.co.nz
Arjuna Oakes signs to London Label - Albert’s Favourites And releases “Motel” first single from forthcoming album.
"The imagery of being stuck in a shitty motel room just felt like it resonated well. I wanted the groove to feel relentless, and the psychedelic production to hint at the darker themes at play."
“Watch out for a great singer from New Zealand called Arjuna Oakes”
Gilles Peterson (BBC Radio 6 Music)
Arjuna Oakes signs to London Label - Albert’s Favourites. Founder Adam Scrimshire announced the signing:
“ I’m so happy to welcome Arjuna Oakes to the Albert’s Favourites family today. We’ve spent the last few months excitedly planning what the future looks and sounds like for Arjuna, prep yourselves for some deeply gorgeous music.”
Motel is a song about feeling stuck in life but using that pent up energy to propel yourself into the future.
"The imagery of being stuck in a shitty motel room just felt like it resonated well. I wanted the groove to feel relentless, and the psychedelic production to hint at the darker themes at play."
The deeply infectious drive of this sleazy and delirious beat, dressed up in the woozy luxury of fender rhodes and glistening synths is hard to put down - and then comes the twist in the tail.
"I had recorded a demo years ago and ended up using the vocal take from it because it had a rawness that I loved. We went into the studio to record drums and bass live."
"The second half of the song is my homage to D'Angelo and the Soulquarians who've been a big influence on me. It features some incredible kiwi musicians including Sam Notman on drums, Harrison Scholes on bass, Jo Jenkins on guitar and James Macewan on Trumpet."
About Arjuna Oakes
Arjuna Oakes is an accomplished singer/songwriter, pianist, composer and producer from New Zealand, currently based in London. Following the release of his debut EP ‘The Watcher’ in 2019, Arjuna has released another six projects all to widespread acclaim. Two EP's ‘First Nights’ and ‘Final Days’ are a collaboration with longtime friend and co-producer Serebii, released by LA-based record label Innovative Leisure (BADBADNOTGOOD, Allah-Las). First Nights debuted at #5 on KCRW's top 30 Albums chart and has had extensive play on BBC6 and BBC1xtra.
Arjuna Oakes' first release on Albert's Favourites is a heady and confident statement that we're sure is going to leave people very excited for what's to come.
Find Arjuna Oakes
Spotify | Apple Music | Instagram | Website
About Alberts Favourites
Today Albert’s Favourites is a south London studio, production family and label founded by Albert's grandson Adam Scrimshire with Jonny Drop and Dave Koor of The Expansions. Home to several collaborations and solo projects from each of the creators, the label has become home to Huw Marc Bennett, And Is Phi, Qwalia, Miryam Solomon, Mark de Clive Lowe’s Rōnin Arkestra and more with new signings and projects to be announced through 2024.
In our first eight years, Albert’s Favourites has released fifteen LPs, plus numerous EPs, singles and a compilation album. We Experienced four weeks in the BBC Radio 6 Music “B” playlist in 2019 with Hector Plimmer and Andrew Ashong single Somebody else, soon followed by an “Album Of The Day” for Scrimshire’s Listeners. With regular support across the station, on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra from Jamz Supernova and Benji B, and even plays from Jamie Cullum on BBC Radio 2. Not forgetting support at home and around the world from a loyal and brilliant family of independent broadcasters and DJs. We’ve also hosted massive label showcases for the South Facing festival in Crystal Palace Park and in 2023 present our first EFG London Jazz Festival event.
As a growing family of writers and producers, we recently launched the Favourite Songs Ltd. publishing company, representing many artists on the label. Both Albert’s Favourites and Favourite Songs pride ourselves on providing an artist focused environment with contracts that evolve and empower the creators as they progress, while leaving ownership and control in their hands. We work hard to put back into the wider music community too with charitable donations and mentoring.
We work with amazing teams at Believe for digital distribution and Prime Direct Distribution for vinyl. Almost all of our visual art is created in house by Jonny Drop (notable exceptions being the Hector Plimmer art, created by Hector himself). Many of our releases are also mixed and mastered in house by either Dave Koor or Adam Scrimshire. We remain deeply independent and focused on finding and elevating incredible artists, being the hand at their back and the supporting voice in their corner, so they can make the music they love and believe in.
We love creating and sharing music. Our lives are shaped by what we love.
Find Alberts Favourites
Frau Knotz delivers lush new single 'Other Futures', ahead of forthcoming debut EP
Aotearoa electronica artist Frau Knotz (Lauren Nottingham) has returned with the beat-centric and uplifting new single 'Other Futures'.
Aotearoa electronica artist Frau Knotz (Lauren Nottingham) has returned with the beat-centric and uplifting new single 'Other Futures'. This is the second single to be released off her forthcoming debut EP 'Nextraterrestrial', out 23rd August 2024.
Stream ‘Other Futures’ HERE
RSVP for the music video premiere HERE
Purchase ‘Other Futures’ on Bandcamp HERE
Originally an instrumental lo-fi hip-hop beat off the album 'Other Futures' by Daniel Hayles (Hollie Smith, Lord Echo, Clear Path Ensemble), Frau Knotz has penned lyrics and adapted his track with her distinct sonic angle.
Featuring scat singing, lush chord voicings and an eighth-note piano line, the Jazz that lies at the heart of both musicians shines forth. Frau Knotz has melded these elements seamlessly with synth instruments and auto-tuned vocals for artistic effect, underpinned by a heavy-hitting electronic beat. Her undeniable skill for straddling genres to present a unique sound has been put on full display. Lyrically, Lauren says, “the song title gave me so much to work with, along with the repeated melody line, it was a no-brainer to follow this thread and pen a hopeful story of the future.”
Long-time friends and collaborators, Daniel and Lauren both gained Jazz degrees at the New Zealand School of Music, where Daniel is now in his ninth year as a Lecturer in Teaching. Last year Frau Knotz was invited by Daniel to perform as a guest artist with his Other Futures Big Band for the Wellington Jazz Festival, performing 'Other Futures' to a packed audience at Meow, amongst other Frau Knotz originals and bespoke arrangements of iconic songs from Kate Bush, Chicago and George Gershwin.
Arriving on Wednesday, June 12th, is the 'Other Futures' music video, a captivating piece of 3D animation work set on the moon, highlighting the stunning visual craftsmanship of Christchurch-born, LA-based Blue Hamel a.k.a Halfofnothing (lilbubblegum, Childish Gambino). The video will premiere on Frau Knotz’ YouTube channel at 7pm that evening for fans to experience live and chat with the artists. RSVP HERE
Mastered by Joshua Llewellyn at Downbeat Mastering and co-produced and mixed by Sam Johnson at Rhythm Ace Studio, today’s release is the second single to come from her upcoming debut EP, following the enigmatic vignette 'Odyssey I' which was met with eager support from local and international media, featuring on The Most FM, Radio Control FM, The Hits, 13th Floor, Muzic NZ, Zone Nights (Argentina), Expansión Radial (Mexico) and reviewed by Flash-Trax.
'Other Futures' is at its core ‘cerebral’ with its richly layered textures, Frau Knotz's voice donning a vocaloid sensitivity that still exhibits warmth and emotion. The track offers a vision of a time in which our digital accessories might become places for self-expression and improvement, in the next phase of the technological age.
Check out all things Frau Knotz below:
Aotearoa-Filipina pop-star with grit Ms. Mia unveils debut EP, LIVING IN THE SHADOWS + new single ‘Shadows’
Aoteaora-Filipina artist Ms. Mia has today unveiled her glistening and gritty debut EP LIVING IN THE SHADOWS!
Listen to the EP HERE
Watch HERE
Aoteaora-Filipina artist Ms. Mia has today unveiled her glistening and gritty debut EP LIVING IN THE SHADOWS!
Following the success of her previously released singles ‘Strange Life’ (Pirate Radio NZ, Kiwiradio, NZ Music Month ‘Celebrating Wāhine’ Spotify Playlist), ‘This Game’ (13th floor, R1, JUICE TV) and ‘Going For The Kill’(Tearaway, R1, NZOA Fresh Cuts / Puoro Hou), LIVING IN THE SHADOWS is a bold debut EP full of layers and theatre. Each of the five EP tracks are so well crafted and curated that the listening experience is a fully immersive journey - similar to that of a theatre production - with an accomplished band in the pit and commanding presence on stage.
“This is my debut so it is very special to me,” says Ms. Mia. “The whole EP was built around the theme of ‘living in the shadows’, so it captures that journey but also gives a hint of optimism, so I hope [listeners] go on this emotional, sonic journey and feel something – maybe be inspired to move out of the shadows and into the light.”
With the release of the EP comes the release of new cabaret-style single ‘Shadows’ - a song the artist says draws on the vibes of a 1920s speakeasy and sets the theme of ‘living in the shadows’ in different aspects of life – career, love, emotions. “The song’s theme is about going away from living a life according to what society dictates,” explains Ms. Mia, “especially climbing that ladder for a career which might look good on paper, but doesn’t fulfill you and slowly kills your spirit over time. This song is always a good reminder for whenever I find myself doing work that is not aligned with my soul and creative intent.”
The other new tracks are ‘Butterflies’ – a moody track with pent up angst when settling for someone, and the EP’s final track ‘Not Cryin’, an emotional song filled with optimism for the future. “Sometimes, when I’m feeling down, I’ll play it and feel a bit better,” says Ms Mia. “Maybe, somewhere in the world, it will make someone else feel a bit better by listening to it.”
Made with the support of the Asian Artists Fund - Foundations North/Creative NZ, and NZ On Air, Ms. Mia worked with an impressive range of talent for the EP. “I’ve learnt a lot on this journey and am grateful to have had all the musicians and collaborators that helped to shape it.”
Those musicians and collaborators include Fiachra Kinder (drummer for Hozier hit single ‘Take Me To Church’) on drums/percussion, Tee Hao-Aicken (Ersha Island) - violin, Sam Mandeno-Clay (Borderline)- guitar, 김연범 (B.Bum) - bass, Christian Tjandrawinata - guitar/bass/synth, Dean Rodrigues - bass/drums/percussion and Clarissa Chai - synth and all programmed instruments. Producer Clarissa Chai was also involved in co-writing, mixing and producing, while recording engineer's Christian Tjandrawinata and Emily Wheatcroft-Snape worked on it across Roundhead Studios (‘Shadows’ + ‘Not Cryin’), Parachute Studios (‘This Game’ + ‘Going For The Kill’ ) and Movespace (‘Butterflies’) - before the EP was mastered by Chris Chetland at Kog Studios.
Having burst onto the music scene with her mesmerizing melodies, heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals, this debut EP LIVING IN THE SHADOWS brings such exciting, masterful musical intrigue, that it is sure to keep listeners listening and anticipating much more from the rising star that is Ms. Mia. Press play now to begin the journey!
Find Ms. Mia
Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | Apple | Bandcamp | TikTok | Youtube | Soundcloud