Aotearoa’s Sabreen Islam releases brave and haunting piano ballad ‘victory’
Rising Auckland singer and songwriter Sabreen Islam has today released ‘victory’ - the next single from her debut EP, ROOM SERVICE, which is out on March 10.
Rising Auckland singer and songwriter Sabreen Islam has today released ‘victory’ - the next single from her debut EP, ROOM SERVICE, which is out on March 10.
Listen to ‘victory’ HERE
Watch ‘victory’ HERE
‘victory’ is a deeply moving, melancholic piano ballad, showcasing a more vulnerable side to the songs that feature on Sabreen’s upcoming EP, which include previously released singles ‘you will never see this’ and ‘still love you’. It is one of the first that Sabreen wrote for the EP and bravely sees the young artist exploring the very serious issue of sexual violation and its traumatic impact.
“It’s about the complicated emotions and second-guessing we do to try and deal with what’s happened - navigating the hurt, betrayal, anger and sadness,” explains Sabreen. “The lyrics are very close to my heart, and unpack some of the ridiculous things that society tells survivors in order to blame them for what has happened, when the blame lies solely with the perpetrator, not the victim.”
Releasing ‘victory’ has been made even more special thanks to the involvement of Sabreen’s dad, Monirul Islam, who assisted in production alongside Auckland-based Sophie Bialostocki. “He saw how much the song meant to me and since he’s a music guy himself, gave me some guidance on how the song should build and what should be added for it to truly shine.”
There is also a beautiful video that Sabreen made with her best friend Fabressa Iqram. It is powerful in its simplicity, with a stunning performance by Sabreen.
For Sabreen, songwriting is all about wearing her heart on her sleeve. “I write a lot of really confronting, difficult songs when I’m going through it, and this is a taste of it. Writing about difficult feelings is how I process and heal; it’s a big part of my artistry, and who I am as a person.”
Fans now only have one more week to wait for the debut EP, ROOM SERVICE, which is guaranteed to resonate with those who’ve already fallen in love with Sabreen’s refreshing take on indie-pop. “Music has a powerful way of translating experiences and mobilising change. That’s my goal — I want my music to not only help me through my experiences, but hopefully make someone else feel less alone, and perhaps start some important discussions along the way, too.”
Sabreen recently announced her debut headline show at Auckland’s newest venue, Big Fan, Sunday 19 March, with support from Katie-Lee. Just one week after the release of her debut EP ROOM SERVICE, Sabreen and her band are playing all six brand new songs live for the first time.
Tickets are available at Under The Radar HERE
Sabreen Islam is a Bengali-New Zealand singer-songwriter from Auckland. With her signature soft-pop sound and storytelling lyrics, she was selected as a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition 2020. With eight singles under her belt, ROOM SERVICE is her debut EP and will be released everywhere on Friday 10 March 2023.
Should you or someone you know need support, you can seek help from these organisations
● Rape Crisis 0800 88 33 00, click link for local helplines.
● Victim Support 0800 842 846, text 4334, webchat safetotalk.nz or email support@safetotalk.nz.
Find Sabreen Islam
MUSIC MANAGERS FORUM AOTEAROA ANNOUNCE ‘HOW TO MARKET AND PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC’ SEMINARS IN INVERCARGILL & QUEENSTOWN
Following the outstanding success of the How To Make Money From Your Music seminars in 2019, the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission and Creative Communities Queenstown Lakes District and Invercargill City, are returning to Invercargill and Queenstown with the essential FREE Stage Two seminar, How to Market and Promote Your Music.
Following the outstanding success of the How To Make Money From Your Music seminars in 2019, the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission and Creative Communities Queenstown Lakes District and Invercargill City, are returning to Invercargill and Queenstown with the essential FREE Stage Two seminar, How to Market and Promote Your Music.
How musicians release and promote contemporary music continues to evolve, with an enduring focus on digital platforms. Over 75% of the New Zealand Music Industry income is from streaming, but an artist faces stiff competition, against all other artists, within the realms of the large worldwide digital stores and platforms. In order to cut through the noise, artists need to be active across many promotional channels to drive awareness of their projects. With the majority of artists self-releasing, it is important that managers and musicians include a strategic selection of options in their toolkit for the benefit of their independent releases.
This not-to-be-missed seminar will cover avenues of releasing, marketing and promoting music including publicity, bio’s, press releases, tips for pitching to media, marketing, digital marketing, social media, playlists and radio airplay.
Speakers are:
‘How to Market and Promote Your Music’ FREE Seminar
INVERCARGILL
Date: Monday 27 March
Venue: Old St Johns Church, Te Rau o te Huia
(SIT Centre for Creative Industries)
Time: 5.30pm doors for 6.00pm start.
Seminar finishes at 7.30pm
QUEENSTOWN
Date: Tuesday 28 March
Venue: Puāwai space, Te Atamira,
Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton, Queenstown.
Time: 5.30pm doors for 6.00pm start.
Seminar finishes at 7.30pm
FREE ENTRY to all musicians, self-managed artists, music managers or anyone interested in the music industry. RSVP is essential.
Thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission, Creative Communities Queenstown Lakes District and Invercargill City, and the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa.
Music Managers Forum Aotearoa is the collective voice for music managers and self-managed artisits, both signed and independent. The MMF Aotearoa is an independent, non-profit trade association dedicated to helping grow artist manager businesses through education, networking and advocacy.
The MMF Aotearoa work towards a fairer, honest and more transparent music industry which operates with the highest of integrity in the interests of the artists our members represent. We aim to represent the wide diversity of voices and backgrounds of music managers and their artists.
The Label represent a collection of independent labels in NZ (4AD, Rough Trade, XL Recordings, Matador, Young Turks, Secretly Canadian, Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar and Sub Pop) and have delivered successful campaigns for Adele, SIA, Queens of the Stone Age, The xx, The National, Sharon van Etten and Radiohead. The NZ artist roster includes Fat Freddys Drop, Nadia Reid, Don McGlashan, Reb Fountain, Don McGlashan and Unknown Mortal Orchestra.
NZ On Air Music fund the recording and promotion of single songs, multi-song projects and music videos to help connect great NZ songs with NZ audiences. Jeff Newton pitches NZ music to all of NZ’s radio stations and streaming services.
Rodney Hewson has over 30 years’ experience in both executive roles with record labels and in artist management — from humbling beginnings in an average (crap) band to roadie/tour manager and manager for The Exponents in the 90’s. Rodney then filled a number of roles with record labels including PolyGram Records (now Universal) and Sony Music. He worked in sales, as National Promotions Manager, Label Manager, NZ Artist Marketing Director and A&R Director across those labels over a 18 year career. And now? A full circle, managing The Exponents again and up and coming pop sensation Luca George. Suffice to say he has been part of many artist success stories and sadly as many failures.
Cushla Aston, of Tainui and Te Arawa descent, is the founder of Aston Rd, a boutique Artist Management company managing Louis Baker, alongside music management consultation and special projects. Since joining the NZ Music industry in 2011 after a decade in the UK, she has worked with notable New Zealand artists such as Fat Freddy’s Drop, Julia Deans, Kora and Trinity Roots. Cushla is an active participant in the New Zealand Music Industry. She is the Chairperson for the MMF Aotearoa , mentor for Te Māngai Pāho funded artists and Senior Lecturer, Artist Development at Massey University for the Bachelor of Commercial Music.
Proteins of Magic 'Divine Physics'
Divine Physics, the first single from Proteins of Magic’s (Nashville/NZ) forthcoming EP ‘Angel Hieroglyphics’ sees Kelly Sherrod move from the cyber to the organic. Moments of synths anchor a spare voice and a piano. There’s darkness in it, heartache and loneliness. But confidence, too, of a multi-disciplinary artist wielding a wide range of genre and styles under her Proteins of Magic banner.
Divine Physics, the first single from Proteins of Magic’s (Nashville/NZ) forthcoming EP ‘Angel Hieroglyphics’ sees Kelly Sherrod move from the cyber to the organic. Moments of synths anchor a spare voice and a piano. There’s darkness in it, heartache and loneliness. But confidence, too, of a multi-disciplinary artist wielding a wide range of genre and styles under her Proteins of Magic banner.
The beginning of Divine Physics came from time in the depths of a haunting. Sherrod sat at the piano, frustrated to find a way to the skeleton of a new idea which couldn’t quite be reached. But frustration turned out to be the key, palpable, and driving into the core of the song like a collision in slow-motion.
“I started peeling away under the moss in my brain pieces of where I wanted to be.” Kelly says, “Through that struggle it felt like a divine moment when I wrote the first section of the song. It was like something telling me what to do to have access to my new world. It’s the first song where I felt like this was really me.”
Divine Physics is the result of mass experimentation, from Proteins of Magic’s 2021 self titled album, to the 2022 live improvisational series Wishing Well, and single Lethal which reached Number 1 in the NZ Radioscope Alternative Charts, Number 1 in the SRN Top 10, and Number 2 on the bFM Top 10.
A protean artist whose lengthy experience as a producer, touring and recording musician for Punches (2003-09) and as a bass player for Dimmer (2007-09) has cemented an expertise across instruments as well as experiments in voice. Proteins of Magic is emerging in a new form entirely as herself.
Taking Divine Physics to the stage in Aotearoa in February and March and dressed by NZ fashion house Zambesi, Proteins of Magic will be performing a 5 date headline tour across the North and South Island, plus Splore, Cross St Festival and Cuba Dupa.
Catching Sherrod in the transition between touring Aotearoa, and heading out on tour to support William Crighton across the UK, Divine Physics sits in the space above the clouds, ready to pour into our world.
Midwave Breaks announce NZ Music Month Tour 2023
In celebration of NZ Music Month, the tour is proud to feature a local Special Guest artist at each show, offering fans an opportunity to support local music, and discover emerging kiwi talent.
Celebrating NZ Music Month with 9 shows across the motu!
Midwave Breaks have continued to make serious waves at Rock Radio since their debut release Lemonade Hand Grenade in 2021. A groundswell of support is building for the Alt-Rock Duo from Tauranga, with multiple independent singles landing in the top 10 NZ Rock Chart since, making their growing fanbase all the more eager to experience the music in live performance mode.
Featuring former Supergroove drummer Paul Russell, and singer-guitarist Bruce Conlon, the pair also co-founded late-90s band Eight, and are no strangers to the stage, promising a captivating and dynamic show, accompanied by full visuals throughout.
In celebration of NZ Music Month, the tour is proud to feature a local Special Guest artist at each show, offering fans an opportunity to support local music, and discover emerging kiwi talent.
Midwave Breaks deliver powerful, emotive songs that blend inspiration from the soundtrack of their youth, with modern alt-rock sensibilities, evoking hints of Springsteen and Petty, Cornell and Vedder.
In the midst of rehearsals, and in anticipation of the run, drummer Paul Russell says, “We can’t wait to create those memorable moments, and to be part of that unique collective energy that a live show brings, along with the audience, we’re in it together”
Tickets vailable Now - Don’t miss the opportunity to catch this wave.
DEAD FAVOURS GIVE RIFFING & YELLING PART B (PRODUCED BY CHRIS MAC, SIX 60) A MARCH DROP DATE & APRIL ROAD TRIP
Dead Favours are proud to announce that on 31st March ‘Riffing & Yelling Part 2’ featuring hit single SOS will finally be released. This is the second half of the album that earnt them the Best Rock Artist nod at the 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards.
Dead Favours are proud to announce that on 31st March ‘Riffing & Yelling Part 2’ featuring hit single SOS will finally be released. This is the second half of the album that earnt them the Best Rock Artist nod at the 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards. Delayed by the second prolonged lockdown in 2021, the band months behind schedule decided to take their time with the final writing and production of Part 2 and they are pleased with the results.
Alex says "It feels great to finally finish the project we started 2 years ago. In spite of all the adversity from lockdowns, floods and various other biblical disasters, we've managed to complete something really special, and I can't wait for everyone to hear it in March 2023”
Recorded across two locations, the legendary Revolver Studios in Waiuku and Six60’s own studio in Auckland, Dead Favours once again teamed up with Chris Mac (Six60) as producer and Neil Baldock as engineer.
The band featuring Steriogram’s Jared Wrennall (frontman), Skinny Hobos Alex Elvis (bass), Charlie Smith (drummer) and Kyle Wetton (guitarist) will soon be on the road taking the fully completed album to adoring fans across Aotearoa this April and May – also Aotearoa New Zealand Music Month!
Frontman Jared Wrennall states, "I’m really excited to share these new songs with everyone. We’ve worked so hard and it feels like an evolution for us as song writers. I can’t wait to play these songs around the country - we have a very special live show lined up!”
Charlie adds “We’ve been working on these songs for well over a year and they are on fire! This is our biggest headline tour to date and we promise we are bringing the house down!”
Tickets to all shows available at www.ticketfairy.com
For all band links go to: https://linktr.ee/deadfavours
DEVILSKIN ANNOUNCE EAST YORK AS SPECIAL GUESTS ON THEIR NATIONAL LET ME BREATHE TOUR 2023
For their upcoming LET ME BREATHE TOUR, multi-platinum New Zealand rock artist DEVILSKIN have invited hot new local act EAST YORK to join them on their 12 date nationwide tour this April and May.
For their upcoming LET ME BREATHE TOUR, multi-platinum New Zealand rock artist DEVILSKIN have invited hot new local act EAST YORK to join them on their 12 date nationwide tour this April and May.
A powerhouse band renowned for their killer sets, formidable live energy, and compelling presence, DEVILSKIN always delivers, and with their LET ME BREATHE TOUR, the band is set to continue their legacy of blistering live shows.
With special guests EAST YORK in tow, DEVILSKIN have invited a fresh, truly kick-ass band to fully complement their legendary high-octane performances, ensuring fans get a sonic, rock-charged night to remember!
The emerging Kiwi four-piece band EAST YORK launched during the global pandemic, and quickly began generating a unique buzz worldwide with their epic, heavy, groove-laden metal-rock.
“It’s time for everyone to go to EAST YORK! ... music that will rip your face off!”
WHITFIELD CRANE - UGLY KID JOE, LIFE OF AGONY
Their debut EP ORIGINS is masterfully moulded into an exciting, face-melting fusion of bands like REFUSED, ALICE IN CHAINS and FAITH NO MORE.
“Killer ... melodic hard rock infused with modern tones”
MARZI MONTAZERI - PHILIP H. ANSELMO & THE ILLEGALS, EXHORDER
Recorded by Tom Larkin (SHIHAD) and Jon Grace at Melbourne’s HomeSurgery, mixed by Clint Murphy (ENTER SHIKARI, DEVILSKIN) and mastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound (AC/DC, COLDPLAY), their debut offering will have you yearning for more. And yes, a full length album is in the works.
Having already secured an impressive selection of rotation and regular radio airplay on national, indie, and student radio stations all over New Zealand and Australia, EAST YORK completed a successful run of headlining NZ shows last September, and have a run of Australian shows booked for March 2023.
CHECK OUT NEW EAST YORK SINGLE ‘DEVIL YOU KNOW’ HERE
A Devilskin audience already knows what a phenomenal show they are in for, and from Auckland to Invercargill, DEVILSKIN with special guests EAST YORK, is one hell of a party you don’t want to miss!
Tickets are getting snapped up quickly, so make sure you get in and secure yours now.
DEVILSKIN LET ME BREATHE TOUR 2023
+ SPECIAL GUESTS EAST YORK
Friday 14 April - The Brownzy, Browns Bay
Saturday 15 April - Stadium Lounge, Mt Maunganui
Saturday 22 April - Waitara T&C Club, New Plymouth
Thursday 27 April - Bev Ridges On York, Napier
Friday 28 April - The Royal, Palmerston North
Friday 5 May - Tillermans, Invercargill
Saturday 6 May - Oamaru Club, Oamaru
Thursday 11 May - Caroline Bay Hall, Timaru
Friday 12 May - Ngaio Marsh Theatre, Christchurch
Saturday 13 May - Rattle N Hum, Nelson
Friday 19 May - The Factory, Hamilton
Saturday 20 May - Powerstation, Auckland*
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FROM eventfinda.co.nz & aaaticketing.co.nz*
Yung Maac set to release first single of 2023
Gisborne raised rapper Yung Maac is gearing up to release his latest single "HANDLE," produced by Don Oskar, on March 3rd. The track features his frequent collaborator RVNNAH and promises to showcase Yung Maac's signature blending of modern rap and experimental sounds.
Gisborne raised rapper Yung Maac is gearing up to release his latest single "HANDLE," produced by Don Oskar, on March 3rd. The track features his frequent collaborator RVNNAH and promises to showcase Yung Maac's signature blending of modern rap and experimental sounds.
The accompanying music video for "HANDLE" is being created by one of New Zealands leading independent production teams 24K Media, known for their work with artists such as Future, Gunna, Kanye West, Pusha-T, and many more.
This new single marks Yung Maac's first release of 2023 and will serve as a lead-in to his highly anticipated debut EP "4010". The artist finished off 2022 strong with the release of "4 10 SHAWTY", which gained over 100,000 streams on Spotify.
"I'm excited to release 'HANDLE' and show my fans what I've been working on," says Yung Maac. "Working with RVNNAH on a track is always fun and I can't wait for everyone to hear it."
Yung Maac has been making a name for himself with his unique sound and high-energy performances, and this new release is sure to further solidify his place in the new school New Zealand industry.
Be sure to mark your calendars for March 3rd to stream "HANDLE" on all major platforms and catch the music video by 24K Media on their YouTube channel.
Aidan Fine announces Sunday Morning
'Sunday Morning', the new single from rising star Aidan Fine, is a sun-drenched blend of hip-hop and warm pop - quickly becoming Aidan's signature.
'Sunday Morning', the new single from rising star Aidan Fine, is a sun-drenched blend of hip-hop and warm pop - quickly becoming Aidan's signature.
With more than 275k streams across Apple Music and Spotify for previous release ‘Gold’, 'Sunday Morning' is the cross-over track that justifies his growing profile.
Following on from two successful showcases for Going Global and NZ on Air, the video (March 10) will feature a live performance from Fine and his band, filmed by in-demand Director Tom Grut.