REVULVA RELEASE ANTI-CAPITALIST ANTHEM ‘HEROIN CHIC’

Today (August 30) Aotearoa band Revulva release ‘Heroin chic’ an anti-capitalist anthem, and the third single from their forthcoming album. 

‘Heroin Chic' is a bold commentary on the relentless pressures faced by artists in today’s hyper-competitive music industry. Inspired by the glorified gaunt, malnourished, and overworked appearance, the track delves into the dark side of the relentless pursuit of success. In an era where the line between personal and professional life blurs, and social media perpetuates a face of endless productivity, ‘Heroin Chic’ exposes the unhealthy glorification of burnout. 

'Heroin chic’ is the third single from Revulva’s self-titled album releasing in October (pre save link here) with limited edition crowd-funded vinyl pressings from Holiday Records. (Crowdfunding link here)

“This song is about the nuance of working too hard, then liking it, but feeling angry that you want it - because most likely, you’ve been manipulated into that” shares an impassioned  Phoebe Johnson, Revulva’s composer and lyricist. “I felt myself celebrating it too - feeling like the more I took on, and the more exhausted I was by it, the better. I feel disappointed by what social media has done for music creation.We see the highlight reels of people’s personal and creative lives, but don’t see how hard constant work and creation can be on your mind and body."

‘Heroin chic’ is based on the early 90’s runway fashion trend of the same name - the celebration of being gaunt, pale, and overworked in retaliation to opposite trends from the 1980s. 

The ‘Heroin chic’ music video was co-directed by Phoebe Johnson and her partner Daniel Kingston, the third directorial video for the pair.  “The concept  is a fever dream show-timey ‘gig gone wrong’ ”share Johnson and Kingston. “In this dream, the audience is at first obsessed, enamoured, and very into it. Then, without any reason at all, they are bored and unreceptive. The band begins to fight back and a riot ensues during a raging solo by the Revulva’s lead horn player - Toby Leman.” The video was shot in Wellington’s Hannah Playhouse, and features an audience of Revulva’s friends and whānau. 

Revulva are an eight-piece femme-fronted progressive soul/ funk band from Te-Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington. The band consists of New Zealand’s finest musicians including Phoebe Johnson (Ebony Lamb, Dateline, HEAVY CHEST), Lily Rose Shaw (The Teskey Brothers, The Gallery, OdESSA), Tobias Leman (Hummucide, The Gallery, Earl Green), Hector McLachlan (The Teskey Brothers, Rachel Andie), Kaito Walley (Bret McKenzie, TOI, L.A.B), Lennox Grootjans (Hummucide, Arjuna Oakes, Len Blake), Mysty Cooke (Exploding Rainbow Orchestra, Esbee, Richter City Rebels), and Zane Hawkins (Hummucide, Len Blake, Tusekah) and is always bursting with heart, snarky remarks, sexuality, burning improvised solos, feminist ethos, and a punk attitude. 

Revulva’s single and music video ‘Heroin chic’ is available now  (August 30) from all streaming platforms.

Matt Rapid– ‘Follow Me’

Coromandel / Te Tara o Te Ika based sound artist and bass music producer Matt Rapid releases his new single: ‘Follow Me’, a syncopated breakbeat and bass exploration.

Follow Me is the first single from Matt Rapid this year. After a summer of festival performances on large outdoor sound systems, he has been creating new music inspired by the flex of big subs, wide open space, and dancing in all different directions. Follow Me begins with a lush wobbly vocal line floating over a sci-fi soundscape, launching into weird, syncopated breakbeats and building to fast breaks over pulsing subs: It’s a real late-night mover.

Matt Rapid is the Bass music alias of sound artist and sonic explorer Matt Sephton. Based in Coromandel Town and frequently travelling as a roaming sound engineer. Sephton incorporates field recordings and found sounds into his music, captured during his adventures around Aotearoa and overseas on his trusty field recorder. Inspired by the likes of Amon Tobin, Bonobo, Dom & Roland, and music closer to home: Paige Julia, Zuke and Dylan C. 

Drawing inspiration from our natural environment, especially the ocean where he spends much time floating, he brings this sense of energy, freedom and playful exploration to the raw power of bass music.

'Follow Me’ is set to release on Friday, August 30th, via DRM NZ

Link Tree:                    https://linktr.ee/matt_rapid

Follow Me, presave:    https://music.drm.co.nz/followme-mr

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

Bandcamp:                  https://mattrapid.bandcamp.com/track/follow-me

Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fWnp81ad4AFwvmrulfQq7?si=EhskY0V7S6u36qLXfPismg

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

La Coco drops infectious and smooth soul-house track ‘Closer To Mine’

Listen HERE

Watch the video HERE

Award-winning multifaceted artist La Coco is today sharing her latest gift ‘Closer To Mine’- a warm and nostalgic soul-house track accompanied by a candid new music video!

The Tāmaki Makaurau-based rising Pasifika star La Coco (Latoia Sasa-Tepania) has long been an exciting presence in the Aotearoa RnB, soul, and electronica space. She’s released three EPs, took home the 2020 Waiata Māori Music Best Album Award for OUT OF TIME, had several Pacific Music Award nominations, and collaborated with the likes of Nathan Haines, POETIK, Atjazz and more. Now, today's release marks an exciting new chapter for La Coco - an artist who has proved ready to push the bounds of genre, and explore new facets of her creativity.

‘Closer To Mine’ is an introspective stream of consciousness, reflecting on intimacy, vulnerability, and a deep desire to bridge the gap between two hearts - articulated through a gentle house groove, soulful vocal melodies and warm instrumental textures.

“This is a song crafted for those who have ever felt the ache of separation and the joy of reunion,” says La Coco. “It's an invitation to reflect on the power of human connection and the enduring strength of love.”

Made with the support of NZ On Air, ‘Closer To Mine’ was written alongside the artist’s big brothers Gene Rivers and Matthew Thorburn, who were sending through beats and instrumentals until La Coco settled on the soothing groove of this new track - which was recorded, mixed and mastered by good friend Christian Mausia at No Filter Studio. La Coco stresses the importance of collaborating with loved ones for her creative process to thrive: “It’s family feels for me,  it needs to be comfortable.”

Also out today is a gorgeous new music video made with regular collaborator and friend Diana Hu. Starring some of La Coco’s closest friends, supporters and collaborators, the clip brings a joyful new meaning to ‘move what’s on your mind’ - capturing La Coco and her friends doing so each  in their own unique way.

“I am not one for the cinematography look, simply not me. I love the everyday people vibe, capturing these moments of all my close ones right here doing life with me.” 

With more new music on its way shortly, now is the time to step into the world of La Coco and let yourself bathe in the warm soul-house of ‘Closer To Mine’!

Find La Coco

Instagram | Spotify | Apple | Youtube | Website

Greta O’Leary unpacks the 21st Century Artist with intimate new single + video ‘Baby I’m a Singer’

Listen to ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ HERE

Watch HERE

Media preview HERE

Tāmaki Makaurau-based alt-folk artist Greta O’Leary today offers up a dark, yet dulcet new single and music video ‘Baby I’m a Singer’.

A lush and nostalgic blend of vivid imagery, stark vocals, bright guitars and haunting strings, ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ waves hello in recognition to the fellow artist, offering a moment of respite from the hustling of the 21st century grind. “The futile nature of being an artist in today's world, is that much of the necessary work takes one away from the true work: creating and enquiring,” says Greta.

Beyond its tongue-in-cheek commentary on the realities of pursuing a career in music, the nostalgic new single ponders the elements of our identities deemed “less valuable by capitalist standards.”

“‘Baby I’m a Singer’ is also about accepting all that I am. Impractical, soft, slow, disorganised, highly creative, deeply affected by my environment, and that is just as right and good as the qualities of any other person. It’s finding strength and clarity in my role in this life as an artist. A sort of deep acceptance of my fate.”

True to the nature of its message, ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ was lovingly crafted through a soft and slow process of collaboration - Greta wrote the track with guidance and useful questioning from her mentor Tom Healy. After first working on a demo with Dave Khan, it was recorded at Roundhead Studios by De Stevens, before the track was finished at The Lab with Jol Mulholland, and then mastered by Joe Lambert. The all star studio band includes Dave Khan (guitar), De Stevens (bass), Hamish Morgan (drums) and Anita Clark (strings).

Also released today is a soothing, wintery music video to accompany the track, directed by Greta and filmed across the Auckland Domain with Adam Rohe (DOP). “I've always had a clear visual sense of this song, the colours and the mood - directing just made sense,” says Greta. “I've been in a romance with crooked, deciduous trees this winter, and ‘Baby I'm a Singer’ lives with them in this cold, lovely, blue world.”

The stunning harbinger to a new chapter in the Greta O’Leary musical universe, and a defiant statement of the modern-day creative mind, ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ is not a track to be missed!

About Greta O’Leary

Spook-folk Sweetheart Greta O’Leary is a songwriter and musician whose pervasive, yet spacious sound, cuts through the thickest of skins. Poignant, heartbreaking and occasionally absurd, Greta’s voice ‘reminiscent of a hāngī pit’ seizes us, ‘imbued with earthy, smokey tones’ (UTR). Quickly establishing herself as a rising force in the Aotearoa music scene, Greta was the recipient of APRA’s Artist Mentoring Programme, working with her mentor Tom Healy on her latest works. Her first single ‘Outnumbered’ garnered a feature on RNZ, charted on independent radio stations such as 95bFM, RDU and Radio One, and gained 140,000 views for its self-directed music video. NZ On Air development funding with producer Charlotte Yates meant a return to the studio soon after to track her debut EP. Following her EP release, Greta performed at festivals such as Newtown Festival, Earthbeat, Performance Arcade, and Wellington Gardens Magic Festival.

Facebook | Instagram | Linktree | Spotify | TikTok | Apple | Website | Youtube

"For kids and learning, music is key"

Far from being a ‘nice to have’, Claudia Robin Gunn - 2024 Aotearoa Award Winner for Best Children’s Album - believes music is key to helping kids find their balance in the classroom and at home. 

Her 7th album ‘Little Wild Learning’ is out today, putting her philosophy into action, with a short but oh so sweet set of useful songs created to help kids who are starting kindy and starting school set off on the right foot. These will be helpful soundtracks for transitions, car rides, brain breaks, after school and more. 

From a practical guide on ’How to Make a Friend' and finding a way to harness those first day ‘butterflies’ to finding familiarity in routine building as a ‘Kindy Kid' - this is all about emotional literacy as well connecting the dots with reading and writing, through music. 

There is evidence of her own bookworm childhood in the song I Love Books - Claudia is excited to highlight in this song how being read to and reading together at a young age pave the way for later mastery of language. This song celebrates the wisdom and treasures to be found in school libraries and local bookshops, as she catalogues different kinds of books kids can discover and fall in love with. 

Emotional literacy is also woven into Claudia’s innovative alphabet phonics song - her ABC of Awesome, helping work through the sounds of letters along with affirmations that match the whole alphabet. 

Fun is on the menu too in  ‘Music Train’ which takes a rollicking railway station journey, weaving a simple yet powerful tale of music making and memory building throughout our lives. Animal Sounds builds both listening and laughing skills, as we discover which animals DON’T make sounds! Curiosity, wonder and understanding how we all learn differently is the theme for Curious Mind, while “I Got This’ closes out the project with a reassuring and calming mantra about embracing new experiences. 

Find Little Wild Learning on all platforms 

Lee Martin Unveils New Single "Free" from Upcoming Album "Dreamers Dawn"

Ōtautahi-based singer-songwriter Lee Martin releases her new single, "Free," from her highly anticipated 3rd studio album "Dreamers Dawn”. The upbeat, toe-tapping track will be available on August 30, 2024, and will be accompanied by a vibrant music video created by Meteorite Hunters. This fun colourful music video brings the song’s themes to life with vivid imagery and engaging storytelling. The video compliments the song’s spirit of joy and freedom.

ABOUT THE SINGLE

Brought to you by Allgood Absolute Alternative records (Troy Kingi, French for Rabbits, Albi and the wolves) "Free" is a lively and uplifting song where Lee Martin writes about the unique circumstances and place she grew up in and how she was raised. It tells a tale of breaking free from the confines of one's upbringing and finding your own place and voice. The track’s energetic rhythm and catchy melody perfectly capture the essence of liberation and self-discovery.

"Free is about embracing the courage to step out of your comfort zone and discovering your true self. It's a celebration of independence and personal growth. When I grew up I was raised with a very specific view on the world and always felt like I had no option to ever deviate from that. “Free” came to me at a time when I felt like I was truly becoming myself and realized who I really was and that I had a choice in my own beliefs" – Lee Martin

ABOUT LEE MARTIN

Lee Martin has developed a sound that glides gracefully across multiple genres. This unique quality has made her a standout artist in the industry. Lee's previous album made it to the NZ Top 20 charts as well as IMNZ top 10 and received global recognition and airplay. Additionally, her music video for "What if I Die", was a finalist for Best Music Video at the NZ Cinematography Awards. “What if I die” was also chosen as single of the year by Muzic.net and enjoys high rotation on CMT Au and Ditty TV in the USA.

Both her recorded music and live shows continue to receive rave reviews, capturing the hearts of an ever-growing fanbase and the attention of media and industry globally. Lee's evocative lyrics and soulful performances have consistently resonated with audiences, establishing her as a prominent figure in the music scene.

UPCOMING TOUR

Following the release of her album in October, Lee will be commencing her Nation-wide tour, starting with her album release party at the Piano in Christchurch on the 30th of October which will be showcasing some of the best musicians in the industry. North Island dates to be announced.

Halfway Down Studios Seeks Radio Show Hosts: Be a Part of Tāmaki Makaurau’s Upcoming Online Radio Station

Halfway Down Studios is excited to announce their upcoming online radio station dedicated to Tāmaki Makaurau’s thriving music scene. Before going live, they are seeking expressions of interest from passionate individuals who want to host their own radio shows.

Express your interest HERE

Whether you’re into niche genres, love music banter, or have a unique show idea, this is your chance to be part of something new. Help them build a station that showcases Auckland’s music culture!

About Halfway Down Studios: From the creators of MoveSpace – Auckland’s home of creators – comes a community-led, artist-run recording studio, cosier than your nana’s lounge, and better quality than your bedroom. Located on Dominion Road, Halfway Down Studios offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a large kitchen and rooftop area for you to relax in while you’re there. The studio is equipped with a growing collection of high-quality microphones, monitors, MIDI keyboards, and instruments for all your creative needs. For more information about Halfway Down Studios and their upcoming online radio, follow them on HERE!

Special Thanks to Creative Pwele: Creative Pwele is proudly supporting Halfway Down Studios with project management to bring this exciting project to life. Known for their dedication to emerging artists, Creative Pwele provides invaluable Artist Support, Management, PR Support, Consulting Sessions, and Project Management Services. For more information, visit www.creativepwele.com.

Jujulipps presents GAME OVER

Rapper Jujulipps has returned with the release of her cut-throat single and accompanying music video, ‘Game Over’.

'Game Over' is Jujulipps first new project since winning last year's Taite Music Prize- Auckland Live Best Independent Debut with the EP 'Get That Shot'. Channeling her own “fighter within” alongside the fierce protagonist energy that Tekken and Street Fighter characters such as Chun-Li and Asuka embody, ‘Game Over’ uses these video game elements as an analogy for the South African-born, Tamaki Makaurau-based rapper’s dominant energy, bratty persona, and assertive spirit.

Working with Aotearoa hip-hop experimentalist and producer WHO SHOT SCOTT, ‘Game Over' rides on an animated, bass-heavy beat adorned with sword slicing samples and gaming sound FX. It finds Jujulipps’ sharp-tongued and ferocious flows on a quest to conquer her opponents with lethal lyrics like “dual game, no player, joystick moving I’m an anime slayer, good luck, I’m sober, had your chance, game over”. ‘Game Over’ unlocks a bold and evolved new character for the artists next musical era, pushing Jujulipps herself to level up as her only true competitor, demonstrated with the hooks final bar “I’m just tryna’ play with myself, solo, 1v1, I don’t need a bozo”.

‘Game Over’ arrives with an accompanying music video directed by Night Watch, finding Jujulipps serving a hyperactive performance while embodying various different characters with a range of both masculine and feminine looks.

“This track being the first single from my EP introduces a new side of Juju to the world, an alternative hip hop slant to the usual realm Juju sits in,” Jujulipps details of the new track. “I’m excited to keep exploring where I can take my craft and I'm really honoured to be a part of the hip hop community, especially in Aotearoa. I can't wait to show the world this incarnation of Jujulipps.”

Of the music video, she continues: “I had the privilege of working with Night Watch - a Tamaki Makaurau-based film production company that reached out after seeing me perform at the legendary Camp A Low Hum in Wellington . Jazz and Jaya were amazing to work with and made sure we were always creatively aligned. It was literally one of the best experiences I've had filming a music video. I wanted the idea of 3 game characters: one sexy, one cute and one masculine, to depict the personalities fighting to take centre stage.”

With a growing list of achievements, including showcasing at Brisbane’s Bigsound and SXSW Sydney, sharing the stage with international artists such as Cakes Da Killa and Sudan Archives, and festival slots including Northern Bass, Rhythm & Vines, NEST FEST, and Cuba Dupa - Jujulipps is only getting started on refining her charismatic and high energy live performances