New Zealand Artist Triggar Happy Drops Powerful Lead Single ‘Cant Complain’
The song takes listeners on a journey through the emotional toil of hard work, low pay, and unyielding perseverance, reflecting the artist's personal battles and the broader human experience of pushing through adversity.
Triggar Happy, known for his raw, authentic sound and evocative lyrics, is set to release his latest single, ‘Cant Complain’ the lead track from his highly anticipated album Talk Is Cheap, scheduled for release October 11. The song takes listeners on a journey through the emotional toil of hard work, low pay, and unyielding perseverance, reflecting the artist's personal battles and the broader human experience of pushing through adversity.
‘Cant Complain’ speaks to the heart of what it means to be resilient in the face of struggle. The lyrics, rooted in themes of labour, survival, and emotional resilience, showcase Triggar Happy's signature storytelling style. With lines like, "Sweat on my brow and I'll do it all again tomorrow" and "No one's listening anyway" the song taps into feelings of frustration, yet is underscored by a quiet strength—an ode to the unspoken struggles many face daily.
This single sets the tone for Talk Is Cheap, an album that promises to dive deep into the realities of life, shedding light on themes of hardship, perseverance, and the internal storms we weather. As Triggar Happy explains, “'Cant Complain' is about the grind we all face, how we keep moving forward, even when no one sees or acknowledges the struggle. It's a reflection of my own journey, but it’s something we can all relate to."
Triggar Happy’s rise in the music scene has been fueled by his ability to connect with listeners through raw and relatable narratives. ‘Cant Complain’ solidifies his reputation as a voice for the everyday person, turning life’s tough moments into a powerful anthem of resilience.
With Talk Is Cheap on the horizon, this single offers a glimpse into an album that promises to resonate deeply with fans, old and new. It's a reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are those born from struggle—and that even when it feels like no one's listening, the music speaks volumes.
‘Can't Complain’ will be available on all major streaming platforms starting October 11. Keep an eye out for more updates on Talk Is Cheap, and be sure to follow Triggar Happy on social media for the latest news and exclusive content.
Rise the Wicked Signs Management Deal with Pauline Lewis of Silver Axe
Rise the Wicked, the dynamic five-piece metal and rock band, is excited to announce their signing with Pauline Lewis, the founder of Silver Axe, a newly established artist management company.
Rise the Wicked, the dynamic five-piece metal and rock band, is excited to announce their signing with Pauline Lewis, the founder of Silver Axe, a newly established artist management company. This partnership heralds an exciting new chapter for the band, building on the momentum of their debut album, *State of Oblivion*.
Since their formation in 2019, Rise the Wicked has captivated rock fans with their high-octane sound, driving rhythms, and powerful lyrics. Their debut single, "Rush," launched them onto the music scene and helped them cultivate a dedicated following, positioning them for even greater recognition.
Pauline Lewis brings extensive commercial and business experience to the partnership, having held senior leadership roles around the globe. After spending the last six years in the United States, she returned to her home country of New Zealand in late 2023, where she is channelling her creative talent and passion for the arts into Silver Axe. Her deep experience, skills and commitment to nurturing talent align seamlessly with Rise the Wicked’s aspirations for growth and innovation. The band is eager to tap into her expertise to broaden their reach and connect with fans globally.
“Signing with Pauline and Silver Axe is a pivotal moment for us,” says guitarist Andrew Stites. “Her impressive track record speaks volumes, and we can’t wait to collaborate on elevating our music and live shows.”
Pauline Lewis shares her excitement: “Rise the Wicked possesses an undeniable energy and talent that will resonate with audiences both locally and internationally. I am thrilled to partner with them and help bring their vision to fruition.”
As Rise the Wicked gears up for their upcoming video release, live performances, and new music, fans can look forward to even more of their powerful shows and compelling storytelling. This partnership is set to enhance the band’s presence in the rock and metal scene, and they are enthusiastic about the future.
Greta O’Leary shares outlandish new single ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’
Tāmaki Makaurau-based indie-folk artist Greta O’Leary has today shared her upbeat, outlandish new single ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’!
Listen HERE
Watch HERE
Tāmaki Makaurau-based indie-folk artist Greta O’Leary has today shared her upbeat, outlandish new single ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’!
A peculiar ride through Greta’s signature tongue-in-cheek songwriting and nostalgic, vivid lyricism, ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’ is also an enthralling display of the artist seamlessly dipping her toes into a new sound. With its chugging beat, lap steel and acoustic guitars, hammond organ, 70s Roland cr8000 drum machine and growling bassline from NZ bass player Cass Basil - channeling the sound of famous bassist Jaco Pastorius - this track is fun and deserving of multiple listens.
“This is a fun and rather odd song drenched in absurdity and memory,” explains Greta. “Touching on childhood religious experiences and growing up playing The Sims.”
Known for her eclectic range of writing and arranging, today’s release follows Greta’s recent single ‘Baby I’m A Singer’ - an ode to fellow struggling artists that has seen love from across Aotearoa (RNZ, RollingStone, 95bFM, R1, Radio Control).
Greta recalls that ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’ was written in a slightly delirious, flu-induced state - a curious writing process fitting for the eccentric new track. “I was isolating in my room with the flu and I’d gone into a strange state. I came out a few days later with the song, but I barely remember the creation of it.”
From there, the single would become yet another collaborative fruit between Greta and producer Jol Mulholland at The Lab Studios, Tāmaki Makaurau. “It’s one of Jol’s firm favorites”.
Also released today is an enthralling and unsettling music video where possession seems to take hold, directed by Greta and Adam Rohe, filmed at Auckland’s Junk & Disorderly. “It took me a while to find the right visual world for this song,” says Greta. “This was my third set for this project, we put a lot of work into the previous ones but I followed my gut and it led us here".
With an unpredictable and exciting new era ahead for Greta O’Leary, fans won’t want to miss her upcoming tour with Tāmaki Makaurau-based folk artist Fables!
October 10 - Meow, Wellington - tickets from Moshtix
October 13 - The Tuning Fork, Auckland - tickets from Moshtix
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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, 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, followed by performances at festivals such as Newtown Festival, Earthbeat, Performance Arcade, and Wellington Gardens Magic Festival. Now, with her recent single ‘Baby I’m A Singer’, shows in Pōneke and Tāmaki Makaurau set to kick off this month, and the release of ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’ - an exciting new era begins for Greta O’Leary!
TAMiii & day13n are back again… teaming up with heavy hitters and newcomers. ‘L.O.V.E.’
‘L.O.V.E.’ is a bouncy pop hit, dripping with collaboration. The track features a verse from the rising Wahine Māori star Idol Essence (Ngati Maniapoto) who has garnered co-signing from the likes of Tom Scott, Melodownz, Dusty & Ghos, and just about everyone who’s anyone in the NZ hip hop scene.
‘L.O.V.E.’ is a bouncy pop hit, dripping with collaboration. The track features a verse from the rising Wahine Māori star Idol Essence (Ngati Maniapoto) who has garnered co-signing from the likes of Tom Scott, Melodownz, Dusty & Ghos, and just about everyone who’s anyone in the NZ hip hop scene.
The original demo was recorded as a part of The Karanga's Navigators program, and is a testament to the inclusive, multicultural community building environment that the program fosters among Rangatahi, bringing together Tongan, Māori, Canadian, and South African voices on to one light hearted track. In a time where division is an easy road to take, this track reminds us of the importance of connection.
After the smash success of their debut single ‘Growing Pains’, which elevated the artists to over 1000 monthly listeners on Spotify, the dynamic duo ‘TAMiii & day13n’ have been hard at work. The pair’s sophomore single ‘L.O.V.E.’ is the culmination of this work, and the beginning of a robust rollout schedule leading to the release of their album.
What was initially planned to be a 3 track EP has been extended into a full length album, slated for release in mid 2025.
The track, ‘L.O.V.E.’ is set to be released October 11th, and is just what our NZ music scene needs to pull us out of a long, cold winter. The sonics bring to mind beach days and warm nights, sunsets, and spring flowers, as newcomer Ty (Ngati Whatua ki Kaipara) delivers catchy, silky smooth vocals on the hook.
While this track might be seen as a departure from the content that fans of day13n’s music are used to, it’s a gentle reminder to care for yourself, and fill your cup, so we can together, more effectively build a brighter future for our community. .
‘L.O.V.E.’ will usher in the spring on all platforms, October 11th.
Follow TAMiii & day13n’s journeys here…
WELLINGTON ARTIST SAM FOWLES IS ‘SITTING ON TOP OF THE WORLD’
Fowles soulful vocals bring the feel-good vibes, accompanied with a catchy chorus ‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ is an instant earworm.
Sam Fowles Pōneke/Wellington musician, songwriter and producer releases his single ‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ today, October 10.
Fowles soulful vocals bring the feel-good vibes, accompanied with a catchy chorus ‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ is an instant earworm.
“Sitting on top of the world is a steady groover” shares Fowles “infused with a dash of hip-hop swagger that keeps the energy fresh.”
The fresh energy was flowing creatively for Fowles in the creation of this track. “Unlike most of my tracks, which begin with guitar and voice, this one emerged from a sonic experiment. I spent hours throwing paint at the canvas, instinctively following what felt good. The process was organic, driven purely by feel.”
Fowles also took sonic inspiration for the natural world around him and built it into the track in an exciting way. For the intro and outro Fowles shares “I went around recording sound samples of native birds and bush ambiences in the beautiful parks of Wellington Otari-Wilton, Takarunga-Mt Victoria and also from my bedroom window in Newtown.”
“It was a super enjoyable experience, I love nerding out on sounds. I find it endlessly fascinating. It was a beautiful way to connect with Te Taiao - the natural world and bridge the gap between abstraction and reality in my music.”
‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ is a modern take on classic psychedelic
soul-radiating warmth like a ray of sunshine and drawing inspiration from 70s genre legends like Shuggie Otis, Roy Ayers, and The Isley Brothers.
Lyrically, it explores themes of mental health and the accompanying inner turmoil “in many ways this song is a love letter to the self” reflects Fowles. “It's about being patient and kind to yourself, particularly when you’re feeling low. Take some time out, enjoy nature, ground yourself in the present moment and most importantly show yourself some love.”
‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ is the fourth single released from Fowles' album ‘After Dark’ releasing November 15. Following on from ‘Butterfly Baby’, ‘Destination Unknown’ and most recently ‘Slipping Away’.
“I see this track as the dawn after the dark, sonically I created a sound world that I imagine a beautiful summer day to sound like whereas Slipping Away had the underwater themes. In my compositions I create a sonic space that reflects a theme I am thinking about visually - sounds, shapes and colours that move with the music.”
‘After Dark’ is Fowles debut solo album. Fowles co-produced the album with Barnaby Weir (The Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties).
‘Sitting On Top Of The World’ is available on all digital platforms from October 10.
Sam Fowles will host a single release party on Thursday October 10th at Poquito Cafe and Bar, Wellington. Doors open 7:00pm, gig starts 7:30pm. R18. Free entry.
Fowles encourages listeners "in times when you're feeling low, take a moment to step back, breathe, and enjoy the view—it's a beautiful world out there, even when it's hard to see through the fog.”
BODY OF WORK RELEASES 'MAUDLIN TO NONE', TRACK 2 FROM SECONDHAND BLUES
Sarah Illingworth (a.k.a Body of Work) has released her second single from a collaboration with Manchester artist Dan B. Hill. 'Maudlin To None' is the next track from a small collection of break-up songs, titled Secondhand Blues.
Sarah Illingworth (a.k.a Body of Work) has released her second single from a collaboration with Manchester artist Dan B. Hill. 'Maudlin To None' is the next track from a small collection of break-up songs, titled Secondhand Blues.
'Maudlin To None' is a reflection on the pull between places an ex-pat can feel, as well as how easy it can be to romanticise a person when you're not around them day-to-day. It's also a nod to depression, and a nudge to keep on going, for those who find it hard to do sometimes.
'Maudlin To None' follows 'Bottle To Go', which was released on 16 August 2024. Communicating the pursuit of connection within the context of loneliness, 'Bottle To Go' pays homage to multiple relationships, acknowledging the importance of each of those influences to the artist.
Birthed in 2019 by the Birmingham-born, West Yorkshire-based Hill, who asked Illingworth to write lyrics for the pop tracks he'd banged out on Logic, the songs have finally been finished – several years after she moved back to Aotearoa c/o Covid.
With initial support from Cam Ballantyne (We Were Dangerous, Nude Tuesday), the songs were rearranged as live entities, mostly performed and entirely produced by Shannon Fowler (Tom Lark, Shannon Matthew Vanya, The Fuzzy Robes). Fowler engineered the tracks, assisted by Maude Morris (Lexxa, LIPS) on 'Bottle To Go' and 'Thinking Of You'. Julien Dyne (himself, The Circling Sun, Half Hexagon) plays drums on all three. Jeremy Toy (Leonard Charles, She's So Rad, Leonard Simpson Duo) mastered them. Thanks also to Big Pop and Big Fan for being supportive and generous, and providing studio space.
"I struggled to feel a sense of home for a long time," says Illingworth. "I did it to myself in many ways, moving around and moving on, but it's a bittersweet thing; having the opportunity to explore can leave you feeling disconnected, even while you're connecting with new people and communities – like you belong everywhere and nowhere all at once."
"I feel lucky to feel grounded now, close to family and friends, and like there doesn't need to be one individual that anchors me – other than myself and the person she's become."
Secondhand Blues* will be released on November 15 (date tbc, digital only).
Saxophonist Thabani Gapara Releases Single 'Times Change' - An Afro-Beat Funk infused jazz track.
Thabani Gapara’s latest single "Times Change" is an Afro-beat infused jazz track that blends the sounds of jazz harmony with infectious dance rhythms.
Thabani Gapara’s latest single "Times Change" is an Afro-beat infused jazz track that blends the sounds of jazz harmony with infectious dance rhythms. The song pays tribute to West African music pioneers like Fela Kuti and Tony Allen, while reflecting on the genre's evolution. Rooted in tradition, Gapara infuses fresh energy into the sound, creating a captivating fusion of styles that honors the past while embracing modern influences.
STREAM ‘TIMES CHANGE’ HERE
With a musical journey spanning 16 years, taking him across continents and musical landscapes. A graduate of the New Zealand School of Music, Gapara's collaborations with an array of artists in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and New Zealand have enriched his creative repertoire.
From being a vital saxophonist in some of Aotearoa’s prominent acts, including Stan Walker, Katchafire, Rob Ruha,Troy Kingi, Sons of Zion, Ella Monerry, The Modern Māori Quartet to contributing on projects like Five Minutes of Fame - Whakaata Māori, Symphony and the Rugby World Cup Sevens theme music, Gapara's musicianship and presence on stage knows no bounds.
Thabani Gapara invites you to join him on this musical safari. Immerse yourself in the sounds.
WHO SHOT SCOTT and JUJULIPPS present: WELCOME 2 THE BLENDER
‘WELCOME 2 THE BLENDER!’ is a joint live-show extravaganza presented by Tāmaki Makaurau based musicians WHO SHOT SCOTT and Jujulipps.
Friday 11 Oct at Ding Dong Lounge, Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland
‘WELCOME 2 THE BLENDER!’ is a joint live-show extravaganza presented by Tāmaki Makaurau based musicians WHO SHOT SCOTT and Jujulipps.
Currently two of the most explosive artists brewing in the Aotearoa alternative hip hop scene, the pair have spent the past few years individually electrifying audiences around Australasia, and are now set to merge their two separate, but equally chaotic worlds into a frankenstein creation of absolute madness. Both being honoured as ‘artists tipped to take over’ by Rolling Stone, this first-of-its-kind experience we will see these two phenoms going back-to-back, intermittently performing banger after banger, followed by bombastic DJ performances. Speaking on the show, the artists say:
Jujulipps: I believe the art of performance is a massive energy exchange and that's exactly why I’m really excited for this show. To be able to break that barrier between artist and audience, a narrative that prioritises performing alongside and with the audience instead of for them is something we’re wanting to push. Connecting club culture, rave culture and stage performance into one blender.
WSS: I feel so strongly that live music is supposed to be shared, interacted with, and moulded in real time. I want people to feel valued and embrace that they are part of the art we’re celebrating, because in a very real way, they are. How cool would it be to push this message for the future? - No more gatekeeping, no more egos, no more pseudo-superstars. We are you, you are us, now let’s shake s**t up together!
In a music genre notorious for competition and braggadocio, a live experience of this kind - embracing community and oneness by two of the most exciting artists in the country is sure to be a pivotal moment for the culture. The two SRN award winners will be electrifying legendary punk-rock dive bar Ding Dong Lounge on the 11th of October, accompanied by Ray Leslie on support and the legendary DJ Hyan behind the decks.
If being a part of the history books just so happens to be your cup of tea, make sure not to miss this one!
DOORS 8pm
support Ray Leslie on stage 9pm
Tickets from $20, or $30 on the door
See you all there!
PURCHASE TICKETS FROM HERE: https://bit.ly/W_2_BLENDER