Sean O'Connor 'Southern Cross'

“Southern Cross” is a beautiful and powerful folk-rock ballad in three “acts”, written in response to the death of Sean’s late wife Amanda O’Connor. Sean says the song came to him at the WOMAD festival a few months after her death. He was dancing alone to “Blackbird” by the Sharon Shannon band, one of Amanda’s favourite tunes to play on the flute and ocarina. He looked up and saw the Southern Cross and asked her, in spirit, to dance with him until the band finished at midnight. He went back to his tent in the light rain and wrote the song. The first “act” is a slow-burning guitar, piano and strings arrangement to the beautiful lyrics and melodies of the first two verses and choruses. The song explodes into the bridge and final choruses with the rhythm section arriving and the vocals jumping up an octave. The finale segues into an at first gentle but then rich and celebratory slow jig, an original instrumental with a bright key change, reminiscent of “Blackbird”, affirming and uplifting.

This is the first single of the second solo album by singer-songwriter Sean O’Connor. The lyric-driven and direct subject matter includes emotionally raw yet optimistic and redemptive responses to the death of his late wife, depression, anxiety, overthinking, neo-Nazism and the human shadow, a friend’s garden, climate change and relationship struggles. These often serious sounding themes are sometimes conveyed by tender ballads, and sometimes offset by upbeat rhythms and bright melodies. The album is acoustic folk-rock, with occasional Irish flavours, evident in the melodic instrumentals, and in the sometimes dense rhythmic lyrics. However, the songs are diverse, ranging from simple guitar and piano arrangements to rock, Latin, reggae and calypso, with steel drums, marimbas, cajons and an improvised triple flute solo by Rennie Pearson featuring in one song. Look out for the following singles and the full album release in the months ahead.

The gig at Meow on Thursday May 25th from 7pm will feature Steve Swanson on Drums, Mike Brown on guitar, James Martin on Bass, Rosie O’Connor on backing vocals, Joanna Dann on cello, and Regina and Yahvi Nispel on flute and violin.

Sean released his first solo album “The Real Me” in 2008 and toured NZ, America and Europe in 2011 with his family band “Lava”. He and his late wife Amanda released and toured three duo albums around New Zealand early in their careers.

https://bfan.link/southern-cross-s

Album launch gig FB event link: MEOW, Wellington.

Deva Mahal ‘Future Classic, Vol.1: Classic’ Tour

In celebration of the release of her latest EP, 'Future Classics: Vol. 1 - Classic',  Deva Mahal will play 3 shows this June in NZ's biggest centres.

10th June - The Loons, Christchurch 

16th June - The Tuning Fork, Auckland 

24th June, Meow, Wellington 

The Classic Tour will show off how the EP is a powerful piece of work; showcasing Deva’s strength yet vulnerability as a songwriter, her skill as a producer, and her talent as a vocalist. The music evokes incredible emotion full of both joy and pain. Future Classic, Vol.1: Classic - Classic channels into her music the staggering heartbreak of the current racial violence and political injustices of her country of origin, the eternal endeavor to search for true love and self-worth, and her emboldened sense of sensuality, softness, and power as a Black woman. 

“To dare to bet on yourself and the ones you trust most, to create something beautiful to share with Aotearoa.” 

On support, Deva has some incredible wahine joining her - Tusekah in Christchurch, Kat Little in Auckland, and her sister, Zoe Moon in Wellington. 

The show will include the tracks from her new EP along with some of her older classics.

Deva is excited to be back on tour performing live to her much-loved fans.

Ticket On Sale Now - available from www.devamahal.com

LAUREN GIN presents ‘Flight’ ft. Reshma

New Zealand Electronic Producer and Songwriter Lauren Gin Releases Third Single ‘Flight’ ft. Reshma.

Aotearoa-based electronic music producer and songwriter, Lauren Gin, is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of her latest single, ‘Flight’ featuring Reshma. This high-energy track is the third release off her forthcoming EP titled ‘Adrenaline,’ and promises to deliver the hard-hitting Trap and Future Bass sound that Lauren Gin is known for.

The single is a sonic journey that takes listeners through a range of emotions, building anticipation with a beautiful, angelic leadup with Reshma's powerhouse vocals adding an extra layer of depth before diving into a filthy-heavy drop. 

The songwriter and producer says,“'Flight' is intensifying but also euphoric, and each listener will interpret the sound in their own unique way. For me, I feel uplifted and energised, and I hope the song elicits similar feelings with listeners." A rising star in the genre, Lauren Gin is no stranger to the local electronic music scene, having already carved out a name for herself in the New Zealand festival scene with her blend of hard-hitting Trap and Future Bass sounds. Her previous releases, 'Walk Away' and 'Remedy' ft. JANAYAH, have already gathered critical acclaim and have set the stage for the highly anticipated 'Adrenaline' EP scheduled for release this July.

EMWA – CLICK CLACK

New Zealand based producer & DJ EMWA today shares her latest single ‘Click Clack’, the first new music from EMWA for 2023.

‘Click Clack’ explores the trap side of EMWAs repertoire. It’s a modern take on the ever-popular “brass” sound with rolling basses in between.

The second drop is a stripped back “rave” beat with techno and trance influences sure to get your fists pumping.

“I’m really excited to finally put Click Clack out. I’ve been playing it in my sets lately and it’s been so much fun to see people’s reactions to it. I’m really interested to see if people like the first or second drop better” says EMWA.
EMWA, is an exceptionally talented and versatile producer who has been making waves in the New Zealand music industry. With a passion for electronic music and a deep understanding of various genres, EMWA's productions captivate listeners with her distinctive sound and infectious energy.

From a young age, EMWA developed a strong affinity for music and with an innate sense of rhythm and an unwavering commitment to honing her skills, EMWA quickly garnered attention for her innovative approach to music creation.

EMWA's talent extends beyond the studio, as she has also made a name for herself as a dynamic live performer. With an innate ability to read the crowd and curate a euphoric atmosphere, her electrifying sets have garnered acclaim from both fans and industry professionals alike. Her performance at Homegrown earlier this year has been lauded by many as the set of the day on the Electronic Stage. 

EMWA performs at Back Bar in Hamilton tomorrow night (Saturday 13th May) alongside Drum & Bass local legends, Flowidus. Limited tickets are still available from Ticket Fairy.

EMWA’s new single, ‘Click Clack’ is available to stream on all platforms now!

https://bfan.link/click-clack-EMWA

Māori NeoSoul, Pop and Funk artist MOHI uncovers a new realm of Māori music with his new waiata ‘Me Pēhea Rā’.

Following the release of his upbeat, chart hitting singles ‘Jasmine’, and 'Tahuri Mai', MOHI (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa) is changing up his tune with the release of his latest waiata ’Me Pēhea Rā’.

Bursting onto the music scene with his captivating voice and incredible compositions, MOHI’s latest waiata reveals a more vulnerable side to MOHI, pulling us right back into them feels we’ve been trying to cover up for the longest time.

Me Pēhea Rā speaks to the complexities of love, from falling in love, to falling out of love and is a wonderful addition to the MOHI catalogue and allows listeners to connect a little more with this vocal powerhouse.

"I want this waiata to move people, to allow people to feel, to reminisce, to love harder. This waiata is a little different to the waiata I have released; I can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Me Pēhea Rā was co-written and produced with the incredible creatives HINA, Hemi Kelly, Te Rawhitiroa Bosch and Noema Te Hau. It also focuses on bringing his talents of storytelling and exceptional voice to the forefront to showcase a very special rising star.

“I had the privilege of working with the incredibly talented HINA, Hemi Kelly, Te Rawhitiroa Bosch, and Noema Te Hau who co-wrote and produced this waiata. This collaboration was one of the most beautiful musical experiences I’ve had so far on my musical journey - e mihi ana ki tēnei whānau ōku, such an honour.”

'Me Pēhea Rā’ is now available on all streaming platforms.

Georgia Lines releases infectious, hook-laden single + video ‘Monopoly’

Georgia Lines, the award-winning artist from Aotearoa, has just released her first single and video for 2023, titled ‘Monopoly'.

Listen to ‘Monopoly’ HERE

‘Monopoly’ encapsulates the iconic vibe of 80s/90s pop; an infectious bass line, punchy drum hits and a captivating groove. In her signature style, Georgia has infused her latest track with impeccable harmonies and a soulful flair, showcasing her exceptional vocal range and control.

“Sonically the track fits into a world where Prince meets Haim, layered with MJ stacked vocals.” explains Georgia. “My favourite combination!”

The new single was written and recorded with Jussi Ilmari Karvinen (better known as Jussifer) - a Finnish-American producer, songwriter and musician who has worked with Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, Ellie Goulding, Bebe Rexha and more.

Created on a recent writing trip to LA, the single explores a childhood experience of Georgia’s; one which translates to universal themes of life and loss.

“I wrote ‘Monopoly’ about a vivid memory I have as a young child (around 8yrs old), camping here in NZ and playing a game of Monopoly with my family,” says Georgia. “As it often happens in life… things were going really well; I was winning in the game, buying all my property, collecting my money… feeling really stoked with myself. All of a sudden things changed and I lost everything. I went on to have a full meltdown, not coping with the fact that I had lost. Safe to say, this was the last time I played Monopoly.”

Accompanying the single is the video for ‘Monopoly’ which Georgia says is one of the most exciting parts of her job.

“I love the entire day of shooting the video and have the most incredible team of people working with me. Video shoot days can be quite stressful, but if you ever find yourself on set with our team... there is a lot of laughter, snacks, positive affirmations being yelled across the room, and overall such an encouraging environment, which really feeds into the energy of what is being created,” she says. 

The video for ‘Monopoly’ was created to be  less of a conceptual video and more of an engaging piece of content that can partner with the song on social media platforms to draw people in. 

“I love creating videos with a storyline or with a concept that develops... but for this song, I wanted to create something that was simple and placed a focus on a strong performance. I love how engaging the performance is, mixed in with the absolute absurd amount of smoke. Honestly, I couldn’t see anything in the room aside from the DP if he was filming close to my face, which was quite an odd feeling but also really freeing. I didn’t feel like anyone was watching me perform, which almost gave me permission to really throw myself into the performance as there was zero pressure!” says Georgia. 

Georgia's success is not surprising, given her impressive track record. She was named the AMA Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2022, her EP HUMAN topped the Official Top 20 NZ Album chart, and her lead single ‘Faith’ held the top spot on the NZ Airplay Radioscope chart for four consecutive weeks. Her live performances have also received critical acclaim, and she has opened for international acts and performed at various showcases around the world including SXSW and Los Angeles iconic industry showcase School Night.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Georgia also hosts a popular music web series called INTROS.

INTROS is a series where Georgia introduces her new favourite female and non-binary artists through a relaxed sit-down kōrero. Each episode focuses on the artist's chosen song, delving into the story behind the song and the process of writing, before treating viewers to a live performance.

With her distinct style, impressive songwriting prowess, and unwavering work ethic, Georgia Lines is undoubtedly an up-and-coming artist making waves in the music industry. 

Find Georgia Lines:

Facebook / Website /  Instagram
Youtube / Spotify / Apple Music

TOHU making waves with new single Tū mai te reo

Tohu releases their second single, “Tū Mai Te Reo” on 19 May. 2023 It speaks of holding our language close to us, connecting us to our culture.

Tama ( lead singer) felt like he was losing the language because he had no one to speak to whilst living abroad.

The words were an inspiration to hold on to his Reo (language) as it was a connection to his ancestors, especially living overseas. He wanted to write a waiata that was easy on the ears and had a strong message.

With the support and funding by Te Māngai Pāho, Tū mai te reo was recorded and mixed by Evan Pope at Studio 11B and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studio. Videography was done by Shelz Media.

This reggae tune gives off the summer vibes that we have missed this year with the weather, with a reminder to hold fast to our language and culture.

TOHU is a five-piece band made up of diverse members from Aotearoa, formed in December 2022. Tohu brings together over six decades of musical expertise that perpetuates bilingual culture through the power of music. From Rotorua, to the nation and beyond the borders, we value a commitment to Whanaungatanga (community), Manaakitanga (care for each other), Aroha (love), Auahatanga (creativity), and Kōrero (communication).

Our essence as Tohu is to co-exist in a bilingual society that supports the values we aspire to. Music is our chosen medium through which we are able to connect with people across different languages, cultures and backgrounds. Through our shared experience, we are able to relate to each other, gain perspective, and create compassion and an understanding attained through art. Sharing our Reo (language) is one way to Kōrero our inner workings. As we grow as a band, we would like to invite you on this journey into biculturalism that Aotearoa thrives on, weaving our unique story that is our Whakapapa (genealogy).

Teenage Singer-songwriter Will Luhrs releases new single "Our Masquerade" featuring Just Monet.

Will Luhrs, a new talent in the contemporary scene, has released a new single titled "Our Masquerade" featuring the vocals and saxophone additions of Just Monet. The song is available now on all major streaming platforms.

https://li.sten.to/ourmasquerade

In a soon to be released interview with “Tsrang” , Luhrs spoke about his musical journey and the inspiration behind the new release. Luhrs started playing the piano at the age of seven and has been passionate about music ever since. He draws inspiration from artists like Laufey, Daniel Caesar, and Cosimo And The Hot Coals, who stay true to their sound and create music with soul and character.

Luhrs also credits his talented friends and the people around him for inspiring him every day and teaching him something new about music. Just Monet, his close friend and collaborator, is one of those people. Monet is an accomplished singer and musician, having won national jazz awards with her band "Chicks From Corea'' and performing in various shows and competitions. The two came up with the idea for "Our Masquerade" during a jam session in early January, and the song has been in development ever since.

"Our Masquerade" is a catchy and soulful tune that evokes the spirit of old-school soul music. The word "masquerade" means a false show or pretence, and the song is about letting go of things that are out of your control and being free. The lyrics are metaphorical and can be interpreted in many different ways. The line "Baby don’t cry, good things take time" is a particular standout, conveying a sense of hope and positivity.

Luhrs and Schutte’s creativity is evident in the song, with their voices blending seamlessly to create a harmonious and emotionally resonant sound. The song is a testament to their talent and dedication to their craft, and is sure to resonate with fans of contemporary and soulful music.

For more information on Will Luhrs and his music, follow him on social media and all major streaming platforms.