PROTEINS OF MAGIC RETURNS WITH THE DARK INCANTATIONS OF: “FLESH IT OUT”

THE SECOND SINGLE FROM A NEW EP: ‘ANGEL HIEROGLYPHICS’
- COMING EARLY 2024

"Flesh It Out” is the new single by NZ / Nashville artist Proteins of Magic, released on 31st of August by New Zealand imprint Particle Recordings.

Operating in the same dark and subversive corners where Fever Ray, Jenny Hval or Björk may find solace, “Flesh it Out” is a track that arrives shrouded in a mystique all its own, with a strident confidence to defy conventions.

Written while gazing into the flickering flames of an open fire in Nashville, Proteins of Magic found herself caught in the daze of a flashback in which she had seen a young couple openly having sex during the day on the beach in Aotearoa / New Zealand. As Kelly Steven AKA Proteins of Magic remembers:

“The hope and the idealism, the youthful sheen on their skin, being unaware of what life lies ahead for them. That is what triggered the start of the lyrical process. I think the song lays out an emotionally treacherous life for them, a day in the life spanning 10 years and 2min 52 seconds.”

Surrounding surrealistic lyrics with hex-like incantations, tribal rhythms, sinister synthesiser trills, and haunting woodwind sections, PoM creates an unsettling ambience and intimidating presence to send shivers. “If I give you a smile will you resuscitate me?” she coos through gritted teeth. Building to a hypnotic climax, “Flesh It Out” couples brooding instrumentals with a litany of foreboding vocal textures, each representing a disjointed voice of differing lost souls. Foreshadowing a bleak future, these spectres emerge to erode the wide eyed innocence of youth and replace it with existential questions and hollow false promises.

As its title may suggest, “Flesh It Out” was born from within a jam to evoke a spirit that is discernibly raw and immediate, before being layered and moulded repeatedly to find its current recorded form. The finished song spawns, regenerates and severs over its three-minute course, summoning a sense of self determination out of the chaos.

Directed by Ranger Garrett, “Flesh It Out” arrives with an art-house style official video intended to capture a ‘day in the life’ in Nashville. Showing another side of the fluorescent glitz and glamour of the music city, it was shot around various alternative landmarks using a vintage Sony PMW-F3 and Sony Handycam DCR-SX45, including footage of the Dragon Park that was featured in Harmony Korine’s Gummo.

“I liked the idea of it being lo-fi and raw, and I wanted the filming to be like the recording process,” says Kelly of the video. “Less formulated. The cameras were actually literally held together with tape and things were falling apart. I wanted it to be a ‘day in the life’ in Nashville, in a manic, irregular, fractured way.”

"Flesh It Out" captures the creative intuition of Proteins of Magic, juxtaposing the realities between Aotearoa / NZ and Tennessee, opening a portal where the past and present coalesce .

Her upcoming EP 'Angel Hieroglyphics' will be released in February / March 2024.

Upcoming live shows - 

5 September -  7:30pm - 8.00pm - La La Land - BIGSOUND (Brisbane)
7 September - 8:30pm - 9.00pm - La La Land - BIGSOUND (Brisbane)
8th September -  Great Club / supporting Reb Fountain (Sydney)
11th September - Northcote Social Club (Melbourne)
14th October - Altar (Hobart)
18 - 21 October - SXSW (Sydney)

Borderline deliver the “Perfect Movie Scene” EP

Debut EP ‘Perfect Movie Scene’ charts the artistic evolution of youthful Indie-Pop band Borderline. This collection of songs takes you on a journey showcasing the band’s growth as songwriters, musicians and as individuals navigating the life changing shift from school to the outside world. From ‘Spinning’ echoing in High School hallways to the final songs on the EP that have reverberated in sold-out venues, Borderline’s EP is testament to a remarkable progression.

Playing together for 10 years is no mean feat when you are still teenagers but bandmates Matthew McFadden (lead guitar) and Jackson Boswell (drums / BVs) have done just that. Lead vocalist and guitarist Ben Glanfield joined in 2021 (after winning the 2020 Rockquest solo/duo category with his sister Brody) and this year, Max Harries - who the band met at music school - became Borderline’s new bass player.

The EP’s lead single ‘This Is Not Love’ boasts an infectious groove with a bassline that draws inspiration from funk and disco. The powerful vocals seamlessly meld with a perfect combination of guitars and synth lines, defining its place at the intersection of indie and pop.

“The track reflects the fun we had as a band in the creative process of writing the song,” says McFadden, while Glanfield shares “the song's lyrics stem from the realisation that relationships can be complex and conflicted emotional experiences, often presenting situations that may not be as they initially seem.”

Produced by Christian Tjandrawinata, ‘This Is Not Love’ was mixed by Nic Manders and mastered by Vivek Gabriel.

Catch Borderline live as they head off on their first South Island Tour in late September playing shows in Dunedin, Queenstown and Christchurch, thanks to support from the New Zealand Music Commission’s Aotearoa Touring Programme.

Buy Tickets to the South Island tour

https://strungout.flicket.co.nz/tours

FIND BORDERLINE

Spotify | Apple | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok

Mac Summer Announces New Single ‘Let It Go’

The New Zealand producer continues to push boundaries on the innovative new track

Mac Summer has been one of New Zealand’s leading Drum and Bass producers for years, exploring everything from high octane dance tracks to gentle, soothing ambiance. On his latest track, he pushes the genre to its limit. A mixture of surprising electronic textures and ethereal vocals, it is the most captivating track to date from an artist poised for an international breakthrough.

‘Let It Go’ opens with a hypnotic blend of electronic sounds, eventually evolving into an uptempo, otherworldly electronic track. Its distorted synths and expertly executed breaks provide an instant shot of adrenaline. Mac incorporates an angelic vocal performance, which is an ideal counterpoint for the intensity of the production. ‘Let It Go’ strikes a perfect balance between electronic exploration and pop accessibility, showcasing everything that makes Mac such a unique artist. It will be well received by new fans and DnB enthusiasts everywhere.

‘Let It Go’ is available everywhere Sept. 01

HOME BREW ANNOUNCE 11TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF THEIR CLASSIC DEBUT DOUBLE ALBUM

“11 years gone by. it's weird looking back at it with hindsight. i think some of it has fermented better than other parts. but i can at least step back from it now and see it for what it was. it was some honest shit that we weren't trying to take too seriously. and that's what i like about it now. it was never too up itself. it was just the noises that came out of us at the time. a bunch of kids having fun. hard to hate on that.”

-        Tom Scott

RELEASING SEPTEMBER 15TH, 2023

AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW

www.homebrew.dog

Home Brew (11th Anniversary Edition) is a faithful reissue for a fanbase that has stayed loyal to the project since inception, for nearly two decades. The 10th Anniversary Edition 11th Anniversary Edition will be available on CD and - for the first time since the ultra-rare 2013 pressing - a 2xLP 180g deluxe gatefold Vinyl.

Both feature brand new & reimagined illustrations from Guy Brock - the artist behind the original iconic cover, and are remastered by the original mastering engineer Ben Lawson.

It’s been over a decade since the release of Home Brew, an uncompromising snapshot of honesty, self-reflection and disillusionment. With that honesty, Tom Scott, Haz Beats and Lui Gumaka created the clearest picture of the 2010s zeitgeist yet - somehow blending hip-hop with Trade Me, Pak ‘N’ Save, John Key and whatever drug “killed the dinosaurs”.

Rising to equal parts greatness and infamy, the double album split into two discs “Light” and “Dark”, has now become synonymous with hip-hop in Aotearoa. Its impact was followed by a long list of successful musical endeavours from the members - including the critically acclaimed and award winning Avantdale Bowling Club, Team Dynamite and @Peace - alongside fostering multiple artists under the YGB label.

Meghan Meraki releases R&B/Pop single, "Settle Down"

Sassy, self-producing RnB artist, Meghan Meraki is stepping into her own in the Christchurch music scene. With a strong belief in self-love and appreciating yourself, listeners can expect to feel a boost of confidence after listening to Meghan’s music.

Writing and producing her own music means Meghan is able to make her music connect and flow. Meghan uses music as her cathartic outlet which allows her to turn sometimes negative situations into positives. 

Settle Down is all about never settling for anything less than you deserve and making sure you take time to focus on loving yourself first. Sassy lyrics combined with lush vocal stacks, smooth bass and a laid back groove gives you a song full of all the good vibes.
Through development and working on her musical craft over the past couple years, Meghan has been able to find out who she is, who she wants to be and what message she wants to send to people listening to her music. 

Meghan has spent the past few years at Sole Music Academy where she has developed in terms of songwriting, production and overall artist development. Through Sacha Vee, Katie Thompson and other mentors at Sole Music Academy, Meghan has been given guidance in the music industry and a pathway forward in her music career.

Recently, Meghan Meraki performed a 20 minute set at Wunderbar in Lyttelton where she received great feedback and was able to broaden her audience. Meghan also had the opportunity to talk with Liam Donnelly from RDU 98.5FM and sing an original of her own, live on air.

Make sure to follow Meghan’s socials, linked down below, to keep up with her upcoming shows and single releases. Meghan Meraki is one to watch for sure.

Connect with Meghan Meraki:   INSTAGRAM   FACEBOOK   SPOTIFY 

Caesar Mafuta Releases Afrobeat Single + Music Video 'Aroha' - A Multilingual Afrobeat Gem with A Message Of Love And Unity

Brace yourself for a music and visual experience as Caesar Mafuta shares his highly anticipated Afrobeat single 'Aroha.' The single is a stunning mosaic of sound that pays homage to Māori culture and Māori; the original inheritors of Aotearoa, while igniting a spirit of unity for people and lands that share a similar colonial history.

As you sway to the steady melody, you'll find yourself entwined in a beautiful symphony of Te Reo Māori, Shona, and English.

As the echoes of 'Aroha' fill the air, this release is just a prelude to the stories Caesar Mafuta has yet to share. Following his 2023 debut singles 'Far Away' and 'No Wahala,' 'Aroha' paves the way for an exciting series of upcoming releases. Accompanied by a stunning music video directed by Gael Lanigan; inspired by medieval times, Lord of The Rings, and Narnia. While these visuals showcase the artist's adoration of cinema, the setting of the forest plays into something deeper. This setting is where tāngata whenua trace back the first human life and love; thus, it pays homage to Māori culture which the artist has beautifully interwoven into the single, artwork, and music video.

Reflecting on his single artwork, Caesar Mafuta shares, "My attire symbolises the pride I feel in being a Zimbabwean-New Zealander. The armour represents the barriers I faced to find my myself, and the sword signifies my triumph over adversity."

Beyond the afrobeat and visuals, 'Aroha' carries a profound message of cultural preservation and inner resilience. Moved by the artist's experiences migrating and growing up in New Zealand, Caesar Mafuta envisions 'Aroha' as a bridge, connecting Te Reo Māori, Shona, and Afrobeat, all bearing legacies that deserve recognition.

'Aroha' is an embodiment of cultural fusion and artistic expression. It's a reminder that amidst the kaleidoscope of life, music remains a universal language that can unite us all. 

Emerging Artist Vana conures Second Single "SPIT!" - A Dark Trap Anthem Exploring Mental Health Through a Unique Lens

From Tiktok sensation to rising artist Vana is again with the release ofready to give the people what they want again her highly anticipated second single, "SPIT!" Following the incredible success of her last single "PRETTY BOY!", which garnered over 100,000 views within its first month.

"SPIT!" stands as a bold testament to Vana's unique artistic vision and her unrelenting commitment to exploring complex themes through her music. This dark trap anthem goes beyond the surface to delve deep into the intricacies of mental health, drawing a clever parallel between our psychological state and teeth. The song metaphorically presents teeth as a representation of one's mental well-being, juxtaposing the journey of mood disorders against the physical state of teeth, which endure both highs and lows.

Vana's "SPIT!" captures the turbulent rollercoaster of emotions that come with mood disorders, encapsulating the intense highs and crushing lows that characterize the human experience. The track's thought-provoking lyrics provide listeners with an opportunity to reflect on their own mental well-being, sparking conversations about an often-overlooked topic.

The production of "SPIT!" is a masterful blend of sonic elements that contribute to its manic atmosphere. With crushing 808s that reverberate through the track and disorienting electric guitar arpeggios, the song's production perfectly complements its themes. "SPIT!" is simultaneously energetic, twisted, and undeniably catchy, showcasing Vana's ability to create music that resonates on both an emotional and visceral level.

This will be the second single from Vana's debut EP set to release on the 13th of October (Friday the 13th) keeping in theme of her love for the horror genre.

Vana's "SPIT!" will be available on all major streaming platforms 25th August 2023.

Celia Hapaira 'Choose to Heal'

In this powerful and introspective song, Celia Hapaira delivers an emotional journey of self-discovery and resilience. The lyrics poignantly explore themes of overcoming past traumas, facing inner demons, and choosing to heal. The captivating melody and heartfelt vocals make this song a captivating experience for listeners.

"Choose to heal" takes listeners on a soul-searching voyage, delving into the depths of personal struggles and growth. With raw honesty, Celia portrays deep dark places, in which we can all relate to at some point in our lives. The journey of healing is conveyed through a potent combination of evocative lyrics and a memorable melody.

Celia's music is influenced by a diverse range of genres, incorporating elements of alternative rock and soulful vocals. The songwriting reflects a blend of introspection and storytelling, capturing the essence of the human experience.

Celia Hapaira is a multi-talented artist hailing from New Zealand. With a passion for celebrating diversity and embracing individuality, Celia's music seamlessly blends multiple genres, from country and jazz to soul and pop. Her unique vocals and heartfelt narratives have captivated audiences across the world.

Celia's musical journey started in 2019 when she discovered her talent as a singer, songwriter, and musician. Despite her non-musical upbringing and shy personality, Celia's dedication to her craft has propelled her to new heights.

With a story that will touch your heart, Celia dedicated over two years to the recording 2 of what would have been her debut albums, only to have it fall apart due to a disagreement with her producer. Undeterred, Celia took control and now writes, records and produces her music independently, collaborating with trusted partners to bring her vision to life. “Choose to heal” is her 4th official release, with many more releases planned.

https://linktr.ee/celiahapairamusic