Greta O’Leary draws listeners into the obscure, dreamlike world of her debut album, RIVER DARK

Listen HERE

Buy the vinyl record HERE

Aotearoa “spook-folk” singer-songwriter Greta O’Leary has today unveiled her highly anticipated debut album RIVER DARK. Tender, steadfast and unravelling, the arresting nine-track record which includes the new single, ‘IDKALA’ is available in a limited-edition vinyl LP version and on all streaming platforms.

RIVER DARK is a project created against the odds, that sees Greta invite listeners into the soft, dark and idiosyncratic corners of her inner world. Through soaring instrumentation, astute (sometimes absurd) lyrics of self-reflection, and her clear and unmistakable tone, Greta O’Leary’s debut body of work is a remarkable sonic collection of confession, truth and poetry.

“My first record, a collection of personal, ridiculous and truth telling songs. It took a long time to get here. I was a child shy and unclear, completely confused, absolutely not onboard with future, with goals or activity. I was in the field below the house, I was at the pond with the dog, I played make believe longer than most. I was taught to be quiet”

RIVER DARK includes Greta’s breakthrough 2024 singles ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ and ‘Baptised at the Desktop Computer’ - the bold and unapologetic tracks that each shot to #1 in the Student Radio Network Top 10, the latter of which also topped the RadioScope Alt Airplay Chart. Recent 2025 releases ‘Prelude’ (TAHI FM, RollingStone AU/NZ, SRN, UTR) and ‘The Greatest Peace I’ve Known’ (Radio Active video premiere, R1, The Most FM) also decorate the record with Greta’s signature songwriting.

Also featured on the record is new focus-track single ‘IDKALA’ - a comforting yet haunted ode to the desolate, featuring additional vocals from celebrated indie songwriter ARAHI. Their transporting voices intertwine in the gentle lament of Greta’s poignant lyrics;

‘I don’t know about love anymore,

What's wrong with the quiet,

I don’t mind it’

Fans can expect yet another captivating self-directed music video from Greta, to accompany ‘IDKALA’, in the coming weeks.

Written during what Greta describes as “a very inward year, where I turned away from everything except music,” RIVER DARK was curated with the support of Greta's APRA mentor Tom Healy, before being brought to life at The Lab Studios alongside producer Jol Mullholand. Dynamic and soaring instrumental layers were built with indie superstars Cass Basil, Alastair Deverick, Callum Passels, and Anita Clark. Additional recording for ‘Baby I’m a Singer’ took place at Roundhead Studios alongside De Stevens and Dave Khan, and the record was mastered by Joe Lambert in New York.

Casting rich spells of self-expression, finding power in softness, and inviting listeners deeper into her ethereal world, Greta O’Leary is set to turn heads across Aotearoa with her astonishing debut album RIVER DARK - out now on all streaming platforms and vinyl!

To celebrate the release of RIVER DARK, Greta will be playing an enchanting release show at Old Folks Association Hall, Tāmaki Makaurau - alongside her full band! Tickets and more info from UTR.

Find Greta O’Leary

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

Announcing the release of “Afterglow” by Don and The Divorcees

“Afterglow” , the second single from Don and the Divorcees, will be available on all major online platforms from 16 May.   Written by Beans Wright, who also does lead vocal,   ‘Afterglow is a wistful love letter from an introvert, the kind that never makes it as far as the postbox. ’

Don and the Divorcees is a collaboration among Te Whanganui a Tara singer-songwriters and multi-instrumentalists Don Mackay, Hollie Wright and Beans Wright (no relation).  Beans as a soloist was one of the main stage guests at the 2023 Wellington Folk Festival.  

The three friends had from time to time performed together in various combinations.  This gave rise to the decision to try working together as a trio.  Each brings their own compositions to the table and we then work together to make the most of them.

As we each tend to write a slightly different style of song, the unifying element of our sound comes from the arrangements featuring tight vocal harmonies over multiple stringed instruments.  While this gives breadth and variety to our live performances, it does make us, in marketing terms, seriously genre non-compliant. 

We are a bit “old school”.   Our songs are strongly centred on the lyrics, which tell stories or paint pictures, and are designed to be listened to.  The instrumentation is built around a variety of acoustic stringed instruments (guitars, violin, mandolin, cello and bass).  The whole approach is pretty “wooden” and low tech. We see ourselves as “spiritual folkies” performing contemporary songs.

Since we debuted the lineup during the winter of 2023 we have performed regularly around the broader Wellington area, at music venues, around the local folk scene, and at local festivals (most recently headlining on the Songwriters Stage at the Newtown Festival 2025).

If you want to check out what we sound like live you can follow the link https://www.youtube.com/@DonandTheDivorceesBand.   You will find live recordings of five songs from a gig in April 2024.  This includes “Seventeen” and 3 other songs that will be on the “Bit Players” album.

“Seventeen” was recorded in June 2024.  Recording and mixing was by Warwick Donald, and the recordings were mastered by Mike Gibson. 

What next?

“Afterglow” is the second online single from the forthcoming album “Bit Players”, following “Seventeen” in March.  The full album (7 songs) is currently available as a CD only limited edition.  For details of how to get your copy email donandthedivorcees@gmail.com.  A further online single release is planned for June, before the full album is released online in July.

The Flow Collective Release New EP Black Swans

An intimate reflection on memory, identity, and relationships

Acclaimed Aotearoa musicians Elizabeth de Vegt and Hamish Jellyman (Ngāi Tahu) return as The Flow Collective with their deeply personal new EP Black Swans, releasing on Friday, 16 May 2025, in celebration of New Zealand Music Month and de Vegt’s birthday.

Black Swans is a contemplative body of work that reflects on personal histories and how our identities are shaped by past events and relationships. Written and recorded in 2024 at The Stomach in Palmerston North, the EP draws on themes of memory, family, and resilience. The songs express the complexities of navigating the emotional terrain of transformation, and the determination to resist disassociation.

“These songs come from a place of honesty and looking back,” says de Vegt. “They are about recognising how the past lives in us and shapes who we are today, especially as artists.”

This EP represents the first in a duo, where the underlying threads of past, present and future will link them together. While their previous release Flow was expansive—drawing on the poetry of Airini Beautrais and a collective of musicians—Black Swans is paired back and raw. With lyrics written solely by de Vegt, the EP is grounded in storytelling and emotional vulnerability. Her powerful vocal performances and melodies complement Jellyman’s multi-instrumental compositions, showcasing his skills on bass, synth, brass, guitar and keys.

The result is a strikingly intimate record that sits within the evolving tradition of contemporary New Zealand folk, yet remains firmly rooted in personal experience.

Artist Bios

Elizabeth de Vegt is a composer, sound artist, singer-songwriter, performer, and researcher based in Whanganui. She is a vocal and piano teacher and holds a Master of Music with First Class Honours from the University of Waikato, where she also completed doctoral research supported by a Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship. De Vegt’s work spans contemporary classical, electroacoustic, theatrical, and folk genres. Her compositions have been performed across New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and the USA. She is a recipient of the Gill Presland Award for Excellence in Teaching and holds multiple certifications in adult education and professional coaching.

Hamish Jellyman is a Whanganui-based composer, educator, and multi-instrumentalist. He completed a Bachelor of Music in Classical Performance (Trombone) at the New Zealand School of Music and has performed throughout New Zealand, Japan, China, Hong Kong, and Australia. His credits include the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Royal NZ Air Force Band, Auckland Jazz Orchestra, and bands such as Niko Ne Zna and Spiral Jazz Collective. Hamish is also a dedicated music educator, teaching in schools across the country and directing jazz and concert bands. His studio work includes recordings with Shapeshifter, Gareth Thomas, and others.

Black Swans will be available on all major streaming platforms from 16 May 2025. This EP offers a resonant and courageous take on songwriting from two of Aotearoa’s most thoughtful and experienced musical voices.

Waikato Rocks for NZ Music Month

The Waikato continues to grow its reputation as the hub for original Made-in-New Zealand rock music.   This week we heard the announcement that the famous Jim Beam Homegrown festival will return to its origin of Hamilton in 2026.   

Waikato’s own Rise The Wicked, who self-describe as working-class rock & metal are among the many who fist-pumped, or more aptly gave the horns rock-on to the news.  

But, you don’t need to wait to next year to enjoy quality live original NZ Rock music filling the clear air of Hamilton.   Rise the Wicked are beyond pumped to announce they are joining the line-up being bought together by promoter Waikato Rocks on 31 May 2025.   Logan Nathan is bringing a high energy line up of screaming guitars, pounding drums and voices to shake the soul to Hamilton.   In celebration of NZ Music Month, ten (10) bands will take the stage in Alexandra Street at Altitude venue to sign off what is a full month dedicated to celebrating our homegrown talent.

Headlining will be Luger Boa, fronted by Jimmy Christmas, the international rock star known for his role in The D4.  Luger Boa are described as ‘pop-orientated with the intensity of D4’.

Starting at 4pm, Saturday 31st, Luger Boa will be joined in the line up by a succession of hot now, and up and coming, talent.  Auckland Indie Rock band Tablefox, Hamilton power rock band Medusa Glare, Mount Maunganui prog rock Dead Empire, Waikatos aforementioned Rise The Wicked, Hillcrest High hardcore Hoon, Alt/grunge Intercite come up from the Kapiti Coast, Tony Lee brings his country rock style, and Foxton beach Danny Rascal, with Abstract Fish Lungs completing the line up.

Waikato dynamic 5 piece Metal Rock band Rise the Wicked released their debut album ‘State of Oblivion’ which became a recent entrant to Aotearoa top 40 at number 17, making a strong impression with rock lovers in NZ and abroad. 

IA and Rei Collaborate on New Single 'He Piko He Tuna'

Celebrating Love and Resilience
for NZ Music Month
LISTEN HERE

Taonga pūoro band IA teams up with award-winning artist Rei to launch their latest single, "He Piko He Tuna," an R&B-infused earworm fresh out now, marking the vibrant beginning of New Zealand Music Month.

"He Piko He Tuna" blends smooth RnB with minimalist beats and the soothing voices of the Punga Ihu (clay nose flute), evoking nostalgic echoes of late '90s RnB and hip-hop. The song weaves a narrative around the eel (tuna), symbolising resilience, endurance, and the complexities of love.

Inspired by the traditional Tainui whakataukī "he piko he taniwha," Rei reinterprets this into the central lyric "he piko he tuna," signifying love’s enduring presence at every twist and turn of life's journey. Rei notes, "If eels can journey to Tonga overcoming every obstacle, surely our own relationships can endure life's hardships."

IA and Rei formed their friendship at the International Indigenous Music Summit in Canada in 2023, fostering a friendship that led to this unique musical collaboration. Created remotely across Tāmaki Makaurau, Central Asia, and Ngaruawahia, the song is rooted in whakawhanaungatanga, true relationship building.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Rei shares, "It felt  connected and personal, not just verses swapped remotely, but an authentic, collaborative effort from the heart."

IA’s Reti added, “It felt like writing with a cuzzy who has your back, knowing that we’ve got theirs too. It's an indescribable feeling of being inspired by someone and who you also inspire.”

Filmed in striking Taupō locations, the music video vividly captures the song's metaphorical essence. "We had great fun filming," laughs Rei, "despite sitting in freezing water from Tongariro River pretending to be relaxed, it was definitely memorable!"

Band member Moetū Smith adds, "After 25 years of marriage, this waiata resonates deeply. Love isn’t always easy, but patience and perseverance create something truly magical."

"He Piko He Tuna" offers listeners a tranquil space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with the calm waters of their relationships. As Reti puts it, "It's a great track for winding down, offering a moment of calm amidst life's currents."

"He Piko He Tuna" is available now on all streaming platforms!

Ōtautahi’s Steffany Beck embraces her inner cowgirl on her rollicking new anthem, ‘Country Strong’ and grabs the attention of Dolly Parton’s camp!

Listen HERE

Watch the video HERE

Christchurch’s very own rising country-pop star Steffany Beck has released her first song of 2025, the rocking ‘n’ rowdy anthem, ‘Country Strong’. 

Listen to ‘Country Strong’ HERE

2025 is indeed looking strong for Steffany, having grabbed the attention of music consultant Steve Guest, who has worked with Dolly Parton for over 20 years, and now resides in NZ, when he saw her play her hit ‘What Would Dolly Do?’ randomly at a fair in Rangiora last year. Steve is now mentoring Steffany in the ways of international country music alongside Bianca Lindstrom - ex Sony Australia - who is a marketing genius in the music industry. There are plans afoot to elevate Steffany as the country music scene continues to explode. Beck is one of the first performers to be confirmed to play at The Isaac Theatre Royal in Christchurch (date to be announced), as part of the theatre’s initiative ‘Live and Local’, and NZ Music Month, which gives artists the opportunity to showcase their talents and their voices onstage at the prestigious venue and help them on their musical journeys.

Steve Guest said, "Steffany is a talented singer and songwriter with a relentless work ethic. Her songs are very good. She reminds me of a young Dolly Parton, and we all know how her hard work paid off. Stef has a promising future ahead, with opportunities in Nashville, Europe, and beyond. I'm glad to be part of her journey.”

Bianca Lindstrom said, "Steffany is the real deal - equal parts talent, grit, and pure country heart. She writes with authenticity, performs with joy, and works like someone who knows exactly where she’s going. ‘Country Strong’ isn’t just a great song - it’s a statement. I’m thrilled to be supporting her journey as she sets her sights on the world stage.”

A rock ‘n’ roll, toe-tappin’, ode to country music, ‘Country Strong’ was co-written with longtime collaborator Nick Burson, who stumbled across the song’s killer riff while playing around with some song ideas at home in Steffany’s living room. “I was like ‘Woah! What was that? Play it again’,” Steffany says.

“Once I heard it the second time the lyrics and melody just started pouring out of me. When inspiration strikes, it strikes hot, and this song was like lightning.”

Steffany says that the inspiration for the lyrics for ‘Country Strong’ comes from the phenomenal popularity of country music right now. “Country music has always been cool. But there is a worldwide movement right now and this song embodies it - connecting our country roots to the worldwide modern country music fever,” she explains.  

The palpable energy of ‘Country Strong’ is captured in a slick music video made by Neato Productions. It features members of the Christchurch Western Riding Association and saw Steffany brushing up on her horse wrangling and riding skills and embracing her inner cowgirl. 

Watch the video HERE 

“I had four riding sessions and literally practiced daily for a couple of weeks to improve my lasso skills. I was so determined to look like a natural born cowgirl. The horse, Elle, which I was blessed to ride, was perfect for me. She was a patient, experienced showgirl, who knew how to make a rookie look like a pro,” says Steffany. 

Supported by NZ on Air and recorded and produced by Andy and Victoria Knopp (The Response), ‘Country Strong’ is the first single from Steffany this year, and follows the release of her 2024 EP, PILLARS, which received a rave review from MuzicNZ: “It’s hard to find fault in the songwriting… Beck proves she has a knack for writing a catchy hook, all while telling compelling and heartfelt stories.”

PILLARS and now ‘Country Strong’ have established Steffany as ‘one to watch’ on Aotearoa’s country-pop music scene and showcase a talented artist, who’s enjoying the ride. “I feel strong and confident in who I am and ‘Country Strong’ reflects me embracing being strong, loving country music and having a hell of a good time doing it.”

To celebrate the release of ‘Country Strong’, Steffany is playing a string of shows, including this weekend’s Country Rock Music Festival in the Bay of Islands (May 9 and 10), the Live and Local Showcase in Christchurch (May 11) and Go Live Festival (August 23). 

---

About Steffany Beck:

Steffany Beck is a country pop singer-songwriter with an impressive list of career highlights, including her country debut EP, PILLARS, recorded with multi-award winning producer Ben Edwards. The EP charted at #6 in The Top 20 NZ Albums. Steffany has written with celebrated Aotearoa singer-songwriter Bic Runga and has performed live with legends such as Jason Kerrison and Anika Moa. She has won a national songwriting competition and is a semi-finalist for the International Songwriting Competition. This past summer, Steffany performed at Christmas in the Park, NZ Spirit Festival, Summer Sundays, South Island Wine and Food Festival, opening for Kaylee Bell, and many more! On top of that Steffany Beck partnered up with Miranda Easten to release girl power country duet single ‘Hell & Back’ charting at #12 on the Tasmanian & OZCMR Top 40 Country Chart. 

Find Steffany here:

INSTAGRAM / FACEBOOK / TIKTOK / X / SPOTIFY / APPLE / YOUTUBE

CHRISTCHURCH ARTIST PHOEBE VIC ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE ‘IT’S MY PLEASURE’

Hot off her appearance at Nostalgia Festival and following her country-tinged track ‘Mad Woman’ comes ‘It’s My Pleasure’, an explicitly fun and fizzy ode to sex and sexual desire.

“This song was born from a long dry-spell of lacking in the intimacy department” says Vic.

“So if I wasn’t getting any action, I decided I wanted to make something really hot and horny - that champions owning your sexual fantasies and desires!”

It’s My Pleasure’ was created with APRA Silver Scroll nominee and producer, Emily C. Browning, with mix and master by Math Bishop.

“I really like minimalist prod and it was an exercise in using less elements to create something in-your-face.” Emily says. “We both wanted it to feel like a punchy little arcade game or something, with little reward sounds and different levels.”

“The metal breakdown was Phoebe’s idea and I had to quickly figure out how to play guitar and bass like a metal head. Very fun day in the studio!”

Alongside this song comes a music video, made in collaboration with Adam Hogan (Lore Films), with thanks to NZ On Air’s New Music Single grant

“We wanted to make something cheeky, visually stimulating and silly that matched the vibe of the song, while adding an additional heightened story-telling element to it!”

‘It’s My Pleasure’ is available on all streaming services and is available to purchase on Bandcamp and iTunes.

PROTEINS OF MAGIC ‘Angel Hieroglyphics’ (EP)

Your hand holds on to the moment
Just before you learn to let go
I stand at the foot of the mountain
I climb against my will
Born free

Now tied to liberty

“Family” is a photograph you can’t stop looking at.

Even though it hurts.
Especially because it hurts.