From the wharf to the bay Just2maori has captured the essence of the nationwide trend of the mana wave with his latest single
From the wharf to the bay Just2maori has captured the essence of the nationwide trend of the mana wave with his latest single.
From the wharf to the bay Just2maori has captured the essence of the nationwide trend of the mana wave with his latest single.
'Mana Wave' is a song about embracing what it is to be from Aotearoa, going viral not only Tik Tok but throughout the country's traffic management sector who bring joy to people on the road every day. Just2maori has captured the Mana Wave and put it into a waiata for everyone to enjoy. With its catchy hook, and fluid flow this song is a family friendly, get your mates together to do the 'Mana Wave' dance and upload it to your socials, vibe!
With Aotearoa heavy hitter ‘Rei’ featuring on this waiata, alongside the versatile Auckland rapper IR1E 3YED we have enjoyed the creative process of crossing genre and how that will look across a multiverse of listeners
Just2Maori is fresh from recording multiple albums with Chur Da Boys, and heads back into the Ghostlike Studio to commence some solo work as 2024 rolls out.
Listen to & Follow Just2maori here: https://linktr.ee/just2maori
TJ & Huri release their debut original single ‘I Wonder Why’ after 5 years in the making
With a combined 20 million + streams, fans have been on a journey alongside TJ & Huri for the past 4 years, and in April 2024 the duo released their debut single, 'I Wonder Why'.
With a combined 20 million + streams, fans have been on a journey alongside TJ & Huri for the past 4 years, and in April 2024 the duo released their debut single, 'I Wonder Why'.
A track that beautifully blends reggae and country influences to create a sound that's uniquely their own.
This song not only showcases the duo's musical talent but with its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, 'I Wonder Why' has already amassed a dedicated fan base eagerly awaiting its release. 'I Wonder Why' is radio friendly and has the ability to span across a wider audience and from Rnb, Adult Contemporary, Reggae and Country.
Accompanied by an 'Official Music Video' the visuals are appeasing and with Lyrics, fans will be able sing along and feel a sense of connection.
Their music is available on all major streaming platforms
QueenB – writes a musical with the first 🧩out #15 Turtle
#15 Turtle - is a song about hiding under a shell. It’s a duo between the main character Veronica Solas (QueenB) and her Imaginary Friend (Maria Flores).
QueenB is an always evolving Russian/Kiwi artist.
Soon after quitting her House of Travel job, she jumped into a three-year singer-songwriter degree at Ara Music Arts. Her final year project was dedicated to writing a rock musical called YOU ARE THE BOSS!
As the title suggests, the musical is about taking control of your life and making life-changing decisions for yourself. YOU ARE THE BOSS is an inspiring story of a Russian immigrant woman chasing her dreams, while battling with the past traumas of domestic violence, suicidal thoughts and cultural prejudice.
The first musical number #15 Turtle will be released on 15th June 2024. The idea is to further work on the rest of the musical and release one single at a time with a number attached to it, so once all 20 songs are out, the listener can piece the whole story together like a puzzle 🧩.
#15 Turtle - is a song about hiding under a shell. It’s a duo between the main character Veronica Solas (QueenB) and her Imaginary Friend (Maria Flores).
QueenB takes lyric writing very seriously, she believes in honesty and openness without holding back! “When I first wrote Turtle, I was so ashamed to read the lyrics to anyone, it felt so vulnerable to admit that I had voices inside my head. I was worried people would think I was mad. But the more I wrote about my mental health struggles, the more I felt free and cured. Writing became my therapy, I could finally find my voice, amongst many voices that I had in my head, and choose the one that was helping me to come out and shine my light vs the one telling me no one gives a shit”.
Musically, you can expect a rock opera with a Middle Eastern twist and a bit of a gothic metal vibe.
Please visit Spotify or other streaming platforms to check out #15 Turtle.
King Cass mixs music and motivational talks, drills in a message with his new single ‘Hit Da Road’
The goal was to set out and make connections, collaboration, unite and spread a positive message. That was how it all went down for Christchurch Hip Hop artist King Cass on his recent Music and Motivation New Zealand tour. King Cass has also used Drill to be a way to express light fun, and positivity despite the reflection of the genre, and the counterpoints show on his release Hit Da Road.
The goal was to set out and make connections, collaboration, unite and spread a positive message.
That was how it all went down for Christchurch Hip Hop artist King Cass on his recent Music and Motivation New Zealand tour. An incredible journey, featuring 15 shows from cities to towns.
Collaborating with a range of talented New Zealand musicians (just to name a few) from supporting ‘The Nomad’ on his 25th year anniversary, creating 2 music videos with OneThree (GIS) and multiple studio tracks in various cities, including dropping April release ‘Unleashed’ with IR1E 3YED & ZNLA (AKL), the Gisborne crew 4010 joined the tour for 2 shows, there was a debut performance at Wingman Festival on Great Barrier Island that was a buzz and the convo‘s with venue owners and organisations across the country enjoyed the energy. All whilst creating a supportive and vibrant atmosphere at each stop.
Each event was impactful, keeping costs low to encourage less financial barriers, and making sure that each show included a tasteful line up with good clean music.
The Awakening motivational talks focused on High Schools where the discussions were about staying motivated, believing in one's goals, and emphasising the importance of being kind and stamping out bullying. If we can help at least one of those students to pursue their dreams we are winning, while also providing them with tools that they could use to take the next steps where needed.
Some highlights across the tour:
Meeting the King Cass fanbase and making each show unforgettable for them
Building whakawhanāungātanga through the connections made along the journey
Spending time in the community visiting local shops and eateries (doing food reviews)
Creating an atmosphere encouraging manaakitanga with the other artists on each of the shows. It wasn't just about turning up and doing the show, but breaking bread and spending time getting to know each other.
Growth is a big one, meeting new people has increased listenership and reach across Aotearoa.
Performing new music on the road, performing tracks featuring artists in those different cities.
Interacting and engaging with various High Schools, there is a real powerful energy sharing that space and being able to shift mindsets and through music and the tough subjects.
The tour successfully increased awareness just how music is the universal language. Attendees left the events feeling inspired, motivated. The feedback was positive, with planning already underway to head back into these towns and expand over the summer.
The success of this tour has motivated us to continue spreading our message of passion, potential, and purpose, and to further promote mental health and wellbeing through our music and workshops.
Thank you to everyone who supported King Cass along the way—our fellow musicians, the incredible venue owners, the dedicated organisations, and most importantly, the amazing audiences who made this tour unforgettable.
What's next??
Ashburton will see ‘The Elements’ songwriting and recording workshop happening this July school holidays.
King Cass has an array of single releases this year before dropping a mixtape at end of 2024.
A Canterbury schools tour is in the works.
Summer festivals are on the cards, and and we get planning on what a Summer tour looks like for 2025
King Cass drills in a message with his new single ‘Hit Da Road’
King Cass finds Drill to be a way to express light fun, and positivity despite the reflection of the genre, and the counterpoints show on his release Hit Da Road.
King Cass is moving around the country after manifesting his bold and brave ideas,and the storyline behind this catchy Hip Hop/Drill single with its iconic kiwi attributes will tell you exactly what King Cass has been up to over the past 12 months.
His last single Old Days hit number 2 on the NZ Hot Single charts in Oct 2023 and following on from that success, Hit Da Road has been received well at recent live events where King Cass has performed it and it has been an anticipated release by many.
‘Hit Da Road’ isn’t like any ol Drill track, no, it doesn't push profanity and the likes. King Cass is in this game to spread a positive light and make music for your kids to vibe to. Instead this is written from a story point of view, manifesting road trips and collaboration.
WEBSITE: www.kingcass.co.nz
SOCIAL MEDIA: @kingcassnz
SPOTIFY: https://shorturl.at/jnqrt
APPLE MUSIC: https://shorturl.at/fiLY9
YOUTUBE: https://shorturl.at/HK235
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/kingcassnz
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/kingcassnz
Triggar Happy Announces the Release of "I'm Going Home"
Get ready to embark on a journey of raw emotion and powerful storytelling as Triggar Happy gears up to release his latest single, "I'm Going Home."
Get ready to embark on a journey of raw emotion and powerful storytelling as Triggar Happy gears up to release his latest single, "I'm Going Home," on June 14th across all major music platforms.
"I'm Going Home" is an evocative track that captures the essence of a lone rider's tumultuous journey towards redemption. With lyrics that weave a tale of being wrongfully accused and the relentless pursuit of freedom, the song resonates with anyone who has ever faced insurmountable odds.
The track opens with the poignant line, "I hear voices screaming my name, sometimes sunshine, sometimes rain," setting the stage for a gripping narrative. As the story unfolds, listeners are drawn into a world where arrows fly, riders call out names, and a winding, dusty track symbolizes the arduous path to vindication.
Triggar Happy's signature sound—a blend of gritty vocals, dynamic instrumentals, and heart-pounding rhythms—shines through in "I'm Going Home." HIs ability to convey deep emotion and vivid imagery through his music is unparalleled, making this release a must-listen.
“'I'm Going Home' is about resilience, the fight for justice, and the ultimate quest for home, whatever that may mean to each individual."
The release of "I'm Going Home" is set to make waves in the music industry, showcasing Triggar Happy's unique ability to blend storytelling with powerful musical compositions. Fans and new listeners alike can look forward to experiencing a track that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically compelling.
Be sure to mark your calendars for June 14th and join Triggar Happy on their unforgettable ride with "I'm Going Home," available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all other major music platforms.
Connect with Triggar Happy
Sam Fowles unleashes electrifying new single ‘Destination Unknown’
Sam Fowles has teamed up with Barnaby Weir (The Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties) to co-produce Fowles’s second single Destination Unknown set for release on Friday, June 7th, 2024.
Sam Fowles has teamed up with Barnaby Weir (The Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties) to co-produce Fowles’s second single Destination Unknown set for release on Friday, June 7th, 2024. The single will be independently released via DRM.
‘Destination Unknown’ invites listeners into another dimension of Fowles' style following up on his debut release, ‘Butterfly Baby.’ The track invites listeners to embark on a sonic journey, weaving through blues-drenched sunrises and funk-infused skies that have you grooving every step of the way to its infectious beat. Trippy electronic textures blend seamlessly with bouncing basslines, layered harmonies, and blazing electric guitars, culminating in an epic chorus. The song has an irresistible flow that demands your body's response.
Through soulful and personal vocal expressions, lyrically it explores the universal quest to find one's way amidst the complexities of life. “‘Destination Unknown’ is about choosing to let your internal compass guide you towards your higher purpose, and to be the light that leads the way on this journey we call life.” Says Fowles
The track was recorded at Massey Studios, Pōneke | Wellington, Aotearoa | New Zealand, engineered by Sam Fowles, Jonas Persson and Ryan Prebble, mixed by Lee Prebble (Surgery Studios), and mastered by Mike Gibson (Munki Studios). It is the second single off the Pōneke artists debut album 'After Dark.' Which is set for release in November this year.
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Midwave Breaks Announce Hometown Tauranga Show
Fresh from their recent nod as finalists for Best Rock Act at the Aotearoa Music Awards, Midwave Breaks are stoked to announce a special Hometown Show at Totara Street, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday July 13.
Fresh from their recent nod as finalists for Best Rock Act at the Aotearoa Music Awards, Midwave Breaks are stoked to announce a special Hometown Show at Totara Street, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday July 13.
The AMA finalist recognition is a fitting testament to the band’s creative impact across the NZ Rock Music landscape. With the release of their recent 3-track EP Standing Inside Out, and the honour of sharing the stage with international heavyweights Incubus and Live on their April NZ Arena Tour, 2024 is shaping up to be another busy year for the Tauranga Alt-Rock Duo.
The headline Totara Street show marks the band’s first hometown performance in over a year. Singer-guitarist Bruce Conlon, and Drummer Paul Russell have always been strong supporters of local talent, and this show is no exception. The Opening Act will be rising stars from Otumoetai High School, Bloody Overalls. This 3-piece heavy psych punk band promises a raw and improvisational energy on stage, aptly described as ‘Dirty, Nasty, Brilliant’.
This show also caters to both 18+ and supervised under 18 access, allowing younger high-school aged fans the chance to experience a full Rock and Roll show when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Midwave Breaks are excited to deliver their latest full length show, as well as continuing to shine a light on the next generation of emerging artists. Landing in the middle weekend of the July School Holidays, this should be locked in as a Bay Of Plenty Destination event - Road Trips fully encouraged.
Sort your crew, grab your tickets, and let’s get ready to make some beautiful noise!
Limited Early Bird Tickets available now from totarastreet.co.nz
Arjuna Oakes signs to London Label - Albert’s Favourites And releases “Motel” first single from forthcoming album.
"The imagery of being stuck in a shitty motel room just felt like it resonated well. I wanted the groove to feel relentless, and the psychedelic production to hint at the darker themes at play."
“Watch out for a great singer from New Zealand called Arjuna Oakes”
Gilles Peterson (BBC Radio 6 Music)
Arjuna Oakes signs to London Label - Albert’s Favourites. Founder Adam Scrimshire announced the signing:
“ I’m so happy to welcome Arjuna Oakes to the Albert’s Favourites family today. We’ve spent the last few months excitedly planning what the future looks and sounds like for Arjuna, prep yourselves for some deeply gorgeous music.”
Motel is a song about feeling stuck in life but using that pent up energy to propel yourself into the future.
"The imagery of being stuck in a shitty motel room just felt like it resonated well. I wanted the groove to feel relentless, and the psychedelic production to hint at the darker themes at play."
The deeply infectious drive of this sleazy and delirious beat, dressed up in the woozy luxury of fender rhodes and glistening synths is hard to put down - and then comes the twist in the tail.
"I had recorded a demo years ago and ended up using the vocal take from it because it had a rawness that I loved. We went into the studio to record drums and bass live."
"The second half of the song is my homage to D'Angelo and the Soulquarians who've been a big influence on me. It features some incredible kiwi musicians including Sam Notman on drums, Harrison Scholes on bass, Jo Jenkins on guitar and James Macewan on Trumpet."
About Arjuna Oakes
Arjuna Oakes is an accomplished singer/songwriter, pianist, composer and producer from New Zealand, currently based in London. Following the release of his debut EP ‘The Watcher’ in 2019, Arjuna has released another six projects all to widespread acclaim. Two EP's ‘First Nights’ and ‘Final Days’ are a collaboration with longtime friend and co-producer Serebii, released by LA-based record label Innovative Leisure (BADBADNOTGOOD, Allah-Las). First Nights debuted at #5 on KCRW's top 30 Albums chart and has had extensive play on BBC6 and BBC1xtra.
Arjuna Oakes' first release on Albert's Favourites is a heady and confident statement that we're sure is going to leave people very excited for what's to come.
Find Arjuna Oakes
Spotify | Apple Music | Instagram | Website
About Alberts Favourites
Today Albert’s Favourites is a south London studio, production family and label founded by Albert's grandson Adam Scrimshire with Jonny Drop and Dave Koor of The Expansions. Home to several collaborations and solo projects from each of the creators, the label has become home to Huw Marc Bennett, And Is Phi, Qwalia, Miryam Solomon, Mark de Clive Lowe’s Rōnin Arkestra and more with new signings and projects to be announced through 2024.
In our first eight years, Albert’s Favourites has released fifteen LPs, plus numerous EPs, singles and a compilation album. We Experienced four weeks in the BBC Radio 6 Music “B” playlist in 2019 with Hector Plimmer and Andrew Ashong single Somebody else, soon followed by an “Album Of The Day” for Scrimshire’s Listeners. With regular support across the station, on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra from Jamz Supernova and Benji B, and even plays from Jamie Cullum on BBC Radio 2. Not forgetting support at home and around the world from a loyal and brilliant family of independent broadcasters and DJs. We’ve also hosted massive label showcases for the South Facing festival in Crystal Palace Park and in 2023 present our first EFG London Jazz Festival event.
As a growing family of writers and producers, we recently launched the Favourite Songs Ltd. publishing company, representing many artists on the label. Both Albert’s Favourites and Favourite Songs pride ourselves on providing an artist focused environment with contracts that evolve and empower the creators as they progress, while leaving ownership and control in their hands. We work hard to put back into the wider music community too with charitable donations and mentoring.
We work with amazing teams at Believe for digital distribution and Prime Direct Distribution for vinyl. Almost all of our visual art is created in house by Jonny Drop (notable exceptions being the Hector Plimmer art, created by Hector himself). Many of our releases are also mixed and mastered in house by either Dave Koor or Adam Scrimshire. We remain deeply independent and focused on finding and elevating incredible artists, being the hand at their back and the supporting voice in their corner, so they can make the music they love and believe in.
We love creating and sharing music. Our lives are shaped by what we love.
Find Alberts Favourites