XUZZ 'MISSISSIPPI'

Soaring into 2024, XUZZ’s new single ‘Mississippi’ is a joyful ode to letting yourself go and rolling with life’s highs and lows.

With 54,000 monthly listeners and well over 4 million online streams, ‘Mississippi’ arrives to a loyal fanbase,
and marks a fresh start for the 23 year old New Zealander.

Produced by Josh Strand (WHOSHOTSCOTT, Daily J, Aidan Fine) its infectious beat and catchy hooks sink their teeth in and provide the perfect backdrop for XUZZ’s heartfelt vocals.

Much like the Mississippi River, this song is a powerful free flowing journey through young love - an instant replay. Think Dominic Fike, Elvis, Ocean Alley and Kings of Leon.

ADV's Pride Month Celebration: Music Video Premiere of lead single 'Do It Over'

After releasing his debut album 'Trust Issues', ADV follows up with a music video for lead single on the album, ‘Do It Over’, directed by Chye-Ling Huang and starring ADV (Alex de Vries) alongside 'Isope 'Akau'ola, Celine Dam, Danny Lam, and Pamela Sidhu.

The release serves as a visual testament to ADV's narrative, featuring a diverse cast of POC creatives who breathe life into the various scenes from 'Trust Issues'. Through their collaboration, ADV, Chye-Ling Huang and their crew craft a cinematic experience that resonates with authenticity and depth, offering viewers a glimpse into the artist's journey of self-discovery.

ADV shares ‘Do It Over’: "This song is all about looking back on a toxic love and seeing all the beautiful moments that you still hold dear. Heartbreak sucks, but it also helps you grow into the best version of yourself. In every relationship, there’s glitter and diamonds buried in the ash. This song is a reminder to not live in regret, but to look forward with hope."

In addition to the music video release, ADV announces the upcoming launch of the full visual album experience on 14 March  2024. Accompanied by a zine titled “The Trust Issue”, curated by designer Lulu Qiu and featuring contributions from a diverse array of photographers, the release promises to offer fans an immersive exploration of ADV's artistic vision.

SUN VAULT SET DEBUT SUMMER TRACK ‘BLEED’

SUN VAULT SET, a Waiheke based collective merging driving electronic elements, soothing harmonies over big rhythmic foundations, will deliver their debut track 'BLEED' March 8th just in time for the NZ Summer, and a run up to a debut March 30th Jazz Festival performance.

STREAM 'BLEED' HERE:

Featuring the vocals of Nikki Ngatai and a seriously smooth arrangement that reimagines Fleetwood Mac as if produced by Massive Attack, the track gathers familiar elements and injects them with fresh energy. Crafted by the skills of some of Waiheke’s best known musicians, Solomon Cole (Space Waltz, The Solomon Cole Band), veteran UK musician Lee Catlin (Orange Can) and a 7 piece musical collective (also featuring co-lead vocalist Alex Ludbrook). 'BLEED' has an urban sound, crashing guitars, dance-y beats, and an insistent bassline that drives through increasingly epic strings and ethereal backing vocals.    

Lyrically the track speaks to observing, acknowledging and supporting someone challenged with trauma or mental health issues. Educating yourself about what they are going through, and the burden you can remove from their plate.Vocalist and lyric writer Nikki Ngatai states, "It’s important we remove the stigma from taking care of our mental health. Keep them company when you can and remind them that you love them and you're on their side - everyone deserves a win".

James Belfield (WEEKENDER) wrote: 'The overall effect is remarkably catchy, has the instant earworm quality that makes it sound as if you’ve known the song for years, and IS a tempting taste of what will surely be appointment viewing live shows and a mouth watering forthcoming album"

Over the last decade guitarist Solomon Cole has established himself as a prolific independent creative by releasing, touring and promoting numerous projects based in Waiheke. In 2023 he assisted in guitar duties for the reformation of iconic NZ rock band Space Waltz. His guitar work can be heard on their sophomore record 'VICTORY' via Universal Music that reached Number 13 in the NZ Album Charts (alongside a consecutive Number 1 for the re-release of their 1974 classic).

It was through this association that he formed a lasting friendship with iconic NZ musician Eddie Rayner (Split Enz, Crowded House) who mixed and produced 'BLEED'. He has now launched his own label Hoop-LA Records as a home for all the albums/releases he has been involved with most recently. SUN VAULT SET is the first track of the rank.

SUN VAULT SET are laying the foundations for 2024 by presenting a multi-tiered night of entertainment Saturday MARCH 30th - The Waiheke Jazz Festival / Artworks Theatre. They want audiences to witness one of the most unique events as  Artworks Community Theatre will be transformed with full light, sound and visual immersion for the evening!

 Book your ticket NOW! Saturday night shows always sell out. Be part of a new era in 2024 for Jazzfest.

PURCHASE: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/mar/festival-club

LINKS: FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | INSTAGRAM | 

SW4CA Vol.2

SW4CA Vol.2 - the 2nd compilation album by The Songwriters 4 Climate Action Project is OUT NOW.  A community project featuring over 12 local songwriters, from various backgrounds and genres contributing an original song with environmental or climate conscious themes.  Holding Space are delighted to share these songs and are blown away by the sheer talent and different perspectives adding a special voice to this important kaupapa. 

The album was recorded over 3 days at Roundhead Studios, with seasoned sound engineer Matt Gunn and the featured artists are Britta Hamill, Mitch Murray, Keb Hart, Rupert Laffey, Manuela, -Loveray-, Shamus Crawford, Tony Bullen, Maggie Cocco, Nigel Russel, Street Georges and Jean Yern.

Listen here:  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/songwriters4climateaction/sw4ca-vol-2

Songwriters 4 Climate Action  (SW4CA) is a Project intended to bring together community-based performers through a series of workshops and activities; to help support and inspire them to develop songs, artwork and start conversations that highlight the challenges and hopes for climate action. The collective recorded a compilation album SW4CA Vol.1 in 2022 and perform at local events including festivals, conferences and markets. This project has expanded to promote the collaboration and response of artists to the work of Kaitiaki and other experts active in the Climate Field. Through this process we hope to support dialogue and connection between many communities, create art that moves culture and learn a thing or two along the way.

Kirikiriroa pop-rock duo Bird Machine unveil electric sophomore EP, HEY HUMAN + new single ‘St Elmo’s Fire’

Listen to ‘Hey Human’ HERE

Alt-pop-rock duo Bird Machine (Luke and Jenna Grbin) have today released their highly anticipated sophomore EP HEY HUMAN and punchy new single ‘St Elmo’s Fire’.

Taking the listener on a journey, this new EP blurs the lines between pop, rock, shoegaze, and alternative soundscapes as it explores, what Luke and Jenna describe as, “diverse facets of human experiences in relationships and self-discovery, with every track delving into unique dimensions of the human journey.” 

The EP features the new anthemic, alt-rock single ‘St Elmo’s Fire’, which combines dreamy verses, driving guitars, catchy vocal hooks and the ultimate chorus build. Bird Machine say they hope the track encourages listeners to “resist artificial influences, and keep their eyes open to the genuine realities of life.”

Complete with fuzzy guitars, synths, and lush vocal layers, HEY HUMAN was recorded entirely at the duo’s home studio in Kirikiriroa. Several tracks were written alongside members of Bird Machine’s extended whānau, and the duo played almost all the instrumentation in the recording process. Jenna impressively mixed and mastered the EP with the help of Aubrey Mitchell (Big Fan). A true grassroots project, this translates to the authenticity in Bird Machine’s sound. It even crosses over to their music videos, which were entirely filmed and edited by the pair - and which they have a new one to look forward to - out 1 March!

Following the release of their 2022 debut self-titled EP, Bird Machine describe HEY HUMAN as the result of taking on a more “alt-pop approach, while keeping some progressive elements and heavier sounds.”

Combining two passions, raising autism-awareness and music, Bird Machine are celebrating the release of HEY HUMAN with an all ages show at Hamilton Walmsley Farm on the 23rd of February and donating all proceeds to Autism New Zealand. Their drive for autism-awareness comes from their young autistic son, who the pair dedicated previously released single ‘Hellos and Frowns’ to. Joining them for the show are Tāmaki Makaurau indie band Back To The Hillside and emerging talent Aotea. Tickets can be purchased from Under The Radar.

About Bird Machine

Luke, an Aussie with an architectural background, has always found his true calling in music. Jenna, a Hamilton native, carries forward her family tradition of music and performance. Together, they make up duo Bird Machine - an innovative blend of early 90s alt-rock, dreampop, and folk wrapped up in catchy pop melodies. Already winning over listeners in the alternative space across Aotearoa (Radio Active, Radio Control, 95bFM, Radio One) and with the success of HEY HUMAN single ‘Closure’ (#1 LifeFM YouChart) after its release in October of 2023, Bird Machine’s highly anticipated EP HEY HUMAN is not one to miss!

FIND BIRD MACHINE

 INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK |WEBSITE

SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC | BANDCAMP | iTUNES

Kylie Price releases "Existential Crisis” ahead of more UK Shows

After having two Top 10 singles in the NZ Music Charts,  Kylie Price releases “Existential Crisis”, ahead of her latest UK Shows.

"Existential Crisis" is the latest dynamic collaboration between Kylie Price and Duncan Brookfield, crafted in the heart of London during a transformative period in Kylie’s life. A memorable musical exploration into the complexities of human thought and emotion.

Listen / Buy "Existential Crisis” 

ABOUT KYLIE PRICE

Kylie Price, the captivating songstress who traces her roots to the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand and the vibrant culture of the Philippines. 

Kylie's music seamlessly blends deeply emotional lyricism with irresistible hooks, creating a sound that is both introspective and universally relatable.

Embarking on her musical journey as a Singer-Songwriter in the Country genre, Kylie fearlessly transitioned into the dynamic realm of Pop, a move that proved to be immensely successful. Her single 'Perfect' soared to #6 on the Official NZ Music Charts, a testament to her growing influence. The triumph continued with her second single, 'Stay,' claiming the #5 spot on the same prestigious platform.

Embracing new horizons, Kylie made the courageous move to London, where she graced iconic venues such as The Camden Chapel, Slaughtered Lamb, and sold out headline shows at the historical Green Note in Camden. Her performances, infused with a unique blend of Kiwi and Filipino influences, captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark.

Drawing inspiration from her diverse cultural background, Kylie is currently immersed in the vibrant music scene of London, collaborating with talented producers to shape her sonic landscape. This phase of her journey sees her pushing artistic boundaries, solidifying her identity not just as a remarkable singer but also as a skilled songwriter with a global perspective.

With a string of successes under her belt, Kylie Price is poised to make a lasting impact on the global music stage. Watch as this Kiwi-Filipina artist continues to evolve, leaving an indelible imprint on hearts and charts alike.

UK Shows 

March 9th  - Country On The Clyde Festival 2024

April 28th  - Leicester, The Musician - Tickets

Special sanctuary concert celebrates birds Music inspired by birds to round out packed festival programme

Now in its fourteenth year, La Fiesta - NZ’s Best Women’s Fest, has gone from strength to strength with this year being one of the most packed programme’s ever. The two week festival began on 10 February and will conclude on 10 March with a special, one-off, concert called “Songbird.” This special concert will be held at Bushy Park Tarapuruhi, a unique bird sanctuary and homestead located near Kai Iwi and features local musicians Hamish Jellyman, Elise Goodge and Elizabeth de Vegt. 

Beginning at 2pm, in front of the homestead, the event will begin with a soundwalk and meditation. This is optional and will explore the unique impacts of bird song on well being. The soundwalk will be followed by an afternoon tea at 3pm in the homestead. Scones and tea/coffee are included in the ticket price. The event concludes with a concert made up of original songs as well as iconic songs that celebrate the theme of birds. All three musicians will be singing and playing a range of instruments including piano, guitar and taonga puoro. “We will be playing some original songs, but in the spirit of the theme we will also be playing some iconic songs and encouraging the audience to sing along with us,” says Elizabeth.

The event will go ahead rain or shine. If it is raining organisers advise to dress appropriately for a bush walk in the rain. Tickets are limited due to restrictions on space and selling fast so advanced booking is recommended. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Under the Radar website for $25. Concession tickets are also available for seniors for $20 and family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) are $50. 

Songbird

https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/gig/88236/Songbird.utr

Sunday 10 March 2024

Soundwalk 2pm

Afternoon Tea 3pm

Concert 3.30pm

Bushy Park Tarapuruhi

791 Rangitatau East Road

RD8

Kai Iwi

Whanganui

"I Go Side On"

"I Go Side On"

an exhibition celebrating the life and creative work of Hamish Kilgour that will include many examples of his artwork, music, videos, record cover designs, inspirations, photos and found art.

Hamish

Many will know Hamish as the drummer and one of the songwriters with the Clean. He was also a prolific artist. Hamish encouraged and supported many performers and was integral to the flourishing international success of Flying Nun Records here in Otautahi.

The late 1980's saw Hamish settling in New York where he based himself for nearly 30 years, frequently returning to Aotearoa to perform while also catching up with family and friends. From 2018 he initiated his return to New Zealand to make Otautahi his home base again. He continued to paint, play music and engage with many - he was our last beatnik.

Sadly, Hamish left this mortal coil in 2022.

"I Go Side On" is in his memory, a tribute to a unique senstive being that touched the souls of many.