VÏKAE RETURNS WITH “SWIPE RIGHT” A DARK-POP RESURRECTION
After a year spent sharpening her craft, Ukrainian born, NZ based - VÏKAE rises with "Swipe Right" - the first explosive offering from her upcoming body of work, DOOMSDAY COLLECTIVE, due November 2025.
After a year spent sharpening her craft, Ukrainian born, NZ based - VÏKAE rises with "Swipe Right" - the first explosive offering from her upcoming body of work, DOOMSDAY COLLECTIVE, due November 2025.
Fierce, unapologetic, and laced with razor-sharp wit, "Swipe Right" dives headfirst into the chaos of modern love, survival, and self-preservation. This isn’t reinvention... it’s resurrection.
Born in Ukraine and based in New Zealand, VÏKAE weaves the resilience and defiance of her homeland into every beat. "Swipe Right" is a dark-pop battle cry for a world standing at the edge, setting the stage for an album that wrestles with heartbreak, identity, and the aftermath of chaos without fear.
Co-written and produced by Abigail Knudson and mastered by Rich Bryan, "Swipe Right" pulses with cinematic tension, hypnotic hooks, and raw energy. Stunning visuals led by Chontalle Musson bring the dark-pop vision to life: vivid, surreal, and unforgettable.
A national New Zealand tour is in the works for 2025, followed by a full-scale European tour in 2026, marking the beginning of VÏKAE's boldest era yet.
"This isn’t just a comeback," says VÏKAE. "It’s a resurrection. It’s a fight for survival ... in love, in war, and in myself."
"Swipe Right" is out now on all major platforms.
Listen & Watch:
Spotify: VÏKÆ
Apple Music: VÏKÆ on Apple Music
YouTube MV: Swipe Right Official Music Video
Follow VÏKÆ:
Instagram: @vikaemusic
TikTok: @viikae
CAITLIN UNVEILS "ATTENTION (JUNUS ORCA REMIX)"—A MESMERIZING ELECTRONIC REIMAGINING OF HER EP STANDOUT
New Zealand alternative pop artist CAITLIN joins forces with innovative producer Junus Orca to unveil "Attention (Junus Orca Remix)", a dynamic, atmospheric rework of the original track from her celebrated EP, Legacy.
New Zealand alternative pop artist CAITLIN joins forces with innovative producer Junus Orca to unveil "Attention (Junus Orca Remix)", a dynamic, atmospheric rework of the original track from her celebrated EP, Legacy. This electrifying remix takes CAITLIN’s emotive songwriting into a darker, more immersive world, where deep, broken beats and ethereal textures intertwine.
Drenched in UK Garage, Future Garage, and ambient club elements, Junus Orca's rework transforms "Attention" into an entrancing, after-hours atmosphere. The remix preserves CAITLIN’s emotive vocals while weaving in textured synths, deep bass, and crisp, shifting percussion for a fresh, atmospheric take.
“I adore Junus’ emotive, ambient, and atmospheric approach to music,” says Caitlin. “I couldn’t believe how the song captured a new feeling in this soundscape but it felt like exactly the right place for the song”.
Junus Orca, known for his genre-fluid approach—blending industrial, dub techno, and ambient pop—has gained recognition from Rolling Stone, HATE, and Keep Hush. His production on this remix offers a cinematic, high-energy, yet deeply immersive experience, proving why he is one of New Zealand’s most exciting electronic artists.
Following the success of her Legacy EP, which saw CAITLIN chart on the New Zealand Alt Music Charts and top the NZ Student Radio Network Charts, she continues to establish herself as a force in the alternative scene. With festival performances, a growing international fanbase, and recognition on Spotify and Apple Music editorial playlists, she remains an artist to watch.
"Attention (Junus Orca Remix)" is out now on all streaming platforms.
LISTEN HERE: https://music.drm.co.nz/attention-remix
Follow CAITLIN: https://linktr.ee/caitlinmusic
Erin G & Altercation Release Collaborative EP ‘Dream It Again’
A true meeting of minds, ‘Dream It Again’ is a four-track collaboration from Singer and songwriter Erin G and Producer/DJ Altercation, two artists equally rooted in Aotearoa’s independent music scene.
A true meeting of minds,‘Dream It Again’ is a four-track collaboration from Singer and songwriter Erin G and Producer/DJ Altercation, two artists equally rooted in Aotearoa’s independent music scene.
Listen Here
Known for infusing his productions with soulful textures and emotive grit, Altercation has become a regular on festival lineups across the country. Erin G moves fluidly between alt-indie and electronic, with a writing style that’s intimate, sharp, and sonically adventurous.
Reflecting on how the project came to be, Erin shares:
“Joel and I met five years ago and we’ve been on each other’s radar, saying we’d make music together. So the plan to collaborate has been in the works for some time. We wrote the EP online, sending each other audio files over a couple of months until the project was ready for release! I was in Auckland and he was in Queenstown, and we’ve become very good friends through this project. We’re both busy working on our own solo projects… so this liquid DnB collaboration has been the breather we’ve both needed to expand our creativity and working flow.”
Together, they craft an EP that’s cinematic and immersive. Earlier singles “Kind Eyes,” “Half Light,” and “Dream It Again” hinted at their artistic alignment, while the full release reveals a deeper synergy.
“Written with purpose and trust,this project is a reflection of our different lived experiences.”- Altercation
Dream It Again is out now on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, and all major platforms.
Ōtautahi-based singer-songwriter Keren Mara, announces her latest release. A feel good song about moving forward!
Ōtautahi-based emotive singer- songwriter Keren Mara releases her latest single ‘I love the open road’. This track is up-beat and further solidifies Keren’s music artistry as she builds on her two previous releases in 2024, ‘Under the wind’ released May 1st, and ‘Livin’ a heartbreak’ released in August.
Ōtautahi-based emotive singer- songwriter Keren Mara releases her latest single ‘I love the open road’. This track is up-beat and further solidifies Keren’s music artistry as she builds on her two previous releases in 2024, ‘Under the wind’ released May 1st, and ‘Livin’ a heartbreak’ released in August.
Keren describes the song as a representation of freedom, saying, “This is what freedom feels like.” She continues, explaining, “It’s about leaving the past behind and moving forward, releasing my heart from the chains that have held me back. This song is a message to myself — to just jump in the car, drive, and let go!"
‘I love the open road’ leads in with a groove that will undeniably leave you with a smile. Keren’s vocals carry the melody, which lifts up an octave in the 3rd verse taking you to a slightly more raw place before coming back to the bouncy, 4/4 rhythm of the song, to which Keren says “Will hopefully be your anthem for the rest of 2025!” The song was recorded and produced by Harry Finlayson-Hood and Keren Mara, at their Christchurch based home studios, and mastered by Levi recordings.
Keren is currently prioritising recording while focusing on some new projects, including releasing a larger collection of works at a later date. She will also appear on tour with Th’Orchard’s compilation album release in 2025, in which her 2024 track ‘Under The Wind’ is included.
About Keren Mara
Keren, a true wanderer at heart, hails from the sun-soaked lands of Southeast Asia. Music has always been the soundtrack of her life, and her unique Christian upbringing as a “Third Culture Kid” shaped her deep connection to it. Her musical journey began with cherished CDs from artists like LeAnn Rimes, Mariah Carey, Faith Hill, and Pink. Over time, her taste evolved, branching out to the sultry smoothness of Sade, the soulful richness of Amy Winehouse, and a mix of artists like Doja Cat, Adam Lambert, and Nina Simone to keep things fresh and exciting.
It wasn’t until later in life, after enduring some painful heartbreaks, that Keren rediscovered her first love—music. She then embarked on a soulful journey, pursuing her degree at Ara Institute of Canterbury, where she graduated in 2021. In May 2024, she released Under the Wind, which captured the attention of the media, earned a “Pasifika New Single” grant from New Zealand On Air Music, and found a cozy home in the top 40 of Life FM for six weeks straight. Not one to slow down, Keren followed up with Livin’ a Heartbreak in July 2024, continuing to spin her story through the magic of song.
Brandn Shiraz releases new single/video Youngin from Kuki II
Today, Brandn Shiraz unveils his latest single, ‘Youngin from Kuki II’, a powerful continuation of the original track featured on his 2023 self-titled project. The track explores the duality of his upbringing — navigating life between the urban city and the cultural roots of island life — offering a raw and honest glimpse into the complexities of identity and heritage.
Today, Brandn Shiraz unveils his latest single, ‘Youngin from Kuki II’, a powerful continuation of the original track featured on his 2023 self-titled project.
In this compelling sequel, Shiraz delivers his trademark energy and distinctive flow, weaving vivid lyricism that reflects his family’s migration from Rarotonga to Aotearoa. The track explores the duality of his upbringing — navigating life between the urban city and the cultural roots of island life — offering a raw and honest glimpse into the complexities of identity and heritage.
‘Youngin from Kuki II’ begins with a siren sound and an announcement from rapper Jungle Don, “Where the 682’s!” – a nod to the Cook Island area code and South Auckland subculture, who’s influence we hear infused into the instrumental. The Pātē drums (Polynesian percussion instrument) and trap beats lay down the steady rhythm and exist to showcase Shiraz’s rap expertise. Additional collaborations include big al. (whom Shiraz met through APRA AMCOS’s Moana Songhubs) who adds to the depth of the production with guitar, bass and saxophone layers tastefully woven in throughout.
Honouring diasporic Moana histories and conversations around place and identity are important themes in director Esther Mauga’s art practice. Mauga’s interpretation of the song is a dream-like sequence which pays homage to Shiraz’s upbringing and nostalgic family memories. From the traditional Cook Islands hair cutting ceremony ‘pakoti rouru’ to shots filmed at the exact home his family grew up in. By the end of the video, we see a personal VHS-filmed video of Shiraz’s family Christmas celebration, now with the realisation that we were revisiting all those memories in real time throughout the music video.
Brandn Shiraz says, “To me, this video honours a certain time for Pacific people in Auckland. There’s houses you might drive past every day without ever realising the rich stories, memories, and traditions that live inside them.“
LADI6 LE VĀ: ALBUM RELEASE TOUR
Ladi6 returns with Le Vā – her long-awaited new album and most personal project to date. Years in the making, Le Vā represents a creative reinvention and a recalibration of the signature wavey electronic soul sound she’s known for. It also marks a profound chapter of personal growth and healing.
LE VĀ: ALBUM RELEASE TOUR
AOTEAROA, JUNE/ JULY 2025
A Journey of Sound, Healing, and Gratitude
'...electronic beats, gut thumping bass, wiry synths, and hallmark vocals, elevated the crowd to a higher level. You could see the joy on people's faces.'
- RNZ Live Review
Thursday June 19 - Dropkicks, Dunedin
Friday June 20 - Loons, Lyttelton
Saturday June 21 - Devilles, Nelson
Saturday June 28 - San Fran, Wellington
Friday July 4 - The Yard, Raglan
Saturday July 5 - Hollywood Avondale, Auckland
Friday July 11 - Artworks Theatre, Waiheke Island
Saturday July 12 - Butter Factory, Whangarei
Friday July 18 - Sherwood, Queenstown
Saturday July 19 - Rhyme x Reason, Wānaka
Pre-sale tickets - 10AM, Monday 28th April
General tickets - 10AM, Wednesday 30th April
Tickets from Banished Music
Subscribe for presale at www.banishedmusic.com/subscribe
Ladi6 returns with Le Vā – her long-awaited new album and most personal project to date. Years in the making, Le Vā represents a creative reinvention and a recalibration of the signature wavey electronic soul sound she’s known for. It also marks a profound chapter of personal growth and healing.
At its heart, Le Vā is a dedication to Ladi6’s beloved mother, Fuarosa, who passed in 2020. Her memory and spirit are woven through every note and lyric – the album standing as a tribute to her life, her influence, and the space her absence has created. "Le Vā explores that sacred space between us – the seen and unseen, what we carry and what we release,” says Ladi6. “This project is both a farewell and a becoming.”
To celebrate the album, Ladi6 will embark on the Le Vā Album Tour – a series of live shows that will bring the new project to life while revisiting iconic songs from her back catalogue. This tour is infused with gratitude – a thank you to the loyal community that has walked alongside her journey for over two decades. “We’ve curated a show that honours where we’ve come from and where we’re headed. It’s our way of saying thank you to everyone who has held us up through all the seasons.”
Le Vā is a sonic offering of healing, transformation, and legacy. The album and tour together serve as an invitation: to feel, to remember, and to move forward – together.
Ladi6 is well known for her authentic and innovative approach to music. She draws inspiration from her own experiences and Moana heritage. Her unique sound and heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners, offering a refreshing perspective in the soul/pop/electronica genre.
Ladi6 is an iconic Aotearoa artist whose music reflects her penchant for emotional authenticity and visionary musical trend-bending. With a hip hop history as founding member of Aotearoa’s first all female hip hop crew, Sheelahroc, a passion for storytelling and a commitment to self-exploration, Ladi6 makes a unique mark in the music industry, gaining a loyal following and critical acclaim.
VINYL RELEASE
Working closely with longtime collaborator Robert Wallace from Parallel Teeth, Ladi6 has also created a stunning 12” vinyl edition of Le Vā that captures the spirit of the project.
The vinyl is peppered with original poetry by acclaimed published author Grace Iwashita Taylor featuring celebrated actor Bella Kalolo-Suraj.
Le Vā is available on 12” pink coloured vinyl at 180gm, with full colour sleeve insert.
This limited first pressing will be available alongside exclusive tour merch at shows
Music can open the door to a lifetime of reading.
Aotearoa Award-winning children’s songwriter Claudia Robin Gunn is back with a calming sing along perfect for rhyme time just in time for World Book Day. Her latest single, Library Card, is a gentle and joyful call-and-response style song about the magic of reading and the wonder of libraries.
Claudia Robin Gunn Celebrates World Book Day with new Call and Response Song ‘Library Card’
Aotearoa Award-winning children’s songwriter Claudia Robin Gunn is back with a calming sing along perfect for rhyme time just in time for World Book Day.
Her latest single, Library Card, is a gentle and joyful call-and-response style song about the magic of reading and the wonder of libraries.
Library Card is part of Claudia’s upcoming EP Helpful, created with support from NZ On Air Tamariki.
This release builds on Claudia’s growing catalogue of literacy-themed songs, including I Love Books, This Book Belongs to Everyone, Alphabet Phonics, and One More Story. Together, these tracks create a musical through line celebrating the incredible adventures that begin inside a book”
Library Card is available now on all platforms. Perfect for classrooms, storytimes, and singalongs, it’s a tune that invites kids to join in and fall in love with reading—one call and response line at a time.
Claudia will be performing Library Card and more of her new Playful Helpful and Wonderful songs on May 3rd at Mt Albert Library
BIRDIES IN THE BUSH: A FOLK-FILLED FOREST ADVENTURE FOR TAMARIKI
Beloved children’s entertainer Suzy Cato joins forces with enchanting folk duo Parrot in the Pocket to release Birdies in the Bush—a joyful new song that takes listeners on a magical stroll through Aotearoa’s native forests.
This April, beloved children’s entertainer Suzy Cato joins forces with enchanting folk duo Parrot in the Pocket to release Birdies in the Bush—a joyful new song that takes listeners on a magical stroll through Aotearoa’s native forests.
Celebrating the rich birdlife of Aotearoa, Birdies in the Bush is a gentle, melodic track introducing tamariki to manu such as the tūī, kākā and ruru through playful lyrics, simple te reo Māori, and acoustic folk melodies.
Performed by Suzy Cato and Parrot in the Pocket—aka Thomas Hamill and Miriam McCombe—the song is designed to delight young listeners and their whānau with catchy tunes and nature-inspired storytelling.
“The song is like a musical bushwalk,” says Suzy Cato. “You can almost hear the birds calling back as we sing. Parrot in the Pocket are amazing musicians—and big kids like me! This collaboration has been a joy.”
Parrot in the Pocket say the song is designed to feel like “a singalong in the forest.”
“As a new folk duet, collaborating with Suzy was an absolute delight for us—her musicality and instinct for what captures tamariki made the whole track shine,” says Thomas Hamill. “We wanted to create something that felt playful and organic. Suzy’s voice weaves through the melodies so naturally, bringing the birds—and the music—to life in such a joyful way.”
Birdies in the Bush has come to life onstage already at Wild Dunedin – NZ’s Festival of Nature, where Suzy performed the song alongside 25 members of the Dunedin Children's Choir at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Looking ahead, the trio plan to bring their music to even more audiences, with upcoming appearances at Auckland Play Week in October 2025, where they’ll perform Birdies in the Bush and debut their next single, Monsters in the Moana. They’re also set to take the stage at the Auckland Folk Festival in 2026.
These releases will form part of a small collaborative EP celebrating Aotearoa’s environment through music for Tamariki, blending folk storytelling, playful lyricism, and ecological themes in a uniquely local soundscape.
With an earworm of a chorus, rich imagery, and a focus on environmental appreciation, Birdies in the Bush invites tamariki to move, sing, listen and learn—all while celebrating Aotearoa’s taonga species.