Soulful, infectious, and groovy new EP INTO THE LIGHT from La Coco

Listen to INTO THE LIGHT HERE

House, groove, and Samoan-Māori soulstress La Coco has today shared her shining new EP INTO THE LIGHT  - alongside a brand new single ‘Follow Me (The Remake)’!

Fresh off the Powerstation stage performing alongside Nathan Haines earlier this month, the Tāmaki Makaurau-based star is sharing her warm and radiant new collection of songs. Oozing deep pockets of house groove, dreamy vocals, and a fusion of old-school RnB, soul and gospel inspired by the Detroit sound - La Coco is taking Aotearoa electronic music to the next level with her new EP INTO THE LIGHT.

“The house influences bring a sense of movement and rhythm, while the gospel-RnB vocals offer depth and emotion,” says La Coco. “INTO THE LIGHT is energetic and spiritual, capturing moments of connection, reflection, and celebration - making the EP feel like an intimate journey of faith, love, and unity.”

Already, La Coco (Latoia Sasa-Tepania) has made some serious waves across Aotearoa - she’s released three EPs, received the 2020 Waiata Māori music award Best RnB Album for OUT OF TIME, and she’s had several Pacific Music Award nominations. Not to mention her notorious collaborations with the aforementioned Polynesian Hip Hop legend POETIK, as well as Atjazz, and more.

Made with the support of NZ on Air, today’s EP continues La Coco’s impressive run of collaborations - with the artist working alongside DJs, producers and arrangers Gene Rivers and Matt Thorburn to bring the project to life. The process began in Gene’s home studio, before the trio headed to No Filter Studio in Grey Lynn, with engineering and mastering from Christian Mausia.

“This project represents who we are as a unit,” says Gene. “Faith, community and a passion for soulful underground music coming together!”

INTO THE LIGHT

1. Can’t Tell Me Nothing (No More)

2. Follow Me

3. Into The Light

4. Closer To Mine

5. Follow Me (The Remake)

Also out today is fresh new single ‘Follow Me (The Remake)’ - which sees the already infectious track sprinkled with the magic of Frank Booker and Nathan Haines. Unleashing a whole new level of groove, the remake also features keys arrangement from Joe Kaptein, and a lush flute solo played by Nathan Haines - embodying the “summer vibes, and sunset feels” that the single represents.

INTO THE LIGHT also features previously released singles ‘Follow Me’, ‘Into The Light’, and La Coco’s latest hit ‘Closer To Mine’ - which continues to see love across the motu; appearing in the SRN Top 10, RadioScope Alt Chart, RadioActive Top 11, and soaring to #1 in the RDU Top 10.

With INTO THE LIGHT, La Coco invites movement of the heart, soul, and body. An exciting force in the Aotearoa electronic space, fans won’t want to miss this gorgeous new EP!

Find La Coco

Instagram | Spotify | Apple | Youtube | Website

Danica Bryant shares super fun, silly and spooky music video for hit single ‘Acid’

Watch the video HERE

Listen to ‘Acid’ HERE

Aotearoa rising star Danica Bryant has today shared a new music video for her pop-rock hit, ‘Acid’!

Riding the high of her new smash-hit’s chart success  (#2 Official Aotearoa Hot 20 Singles, #33 Official Hot 40 Singles) - the Pōneke-based pop star is showing no signs of slowing down, with today’s colourful, camp, and enthralling new music video! Directed by Caitlin Robinson - who also directed Danica’s video for 2023 single ‘Libra’ (#7 NZ Hot Singles Chart) - the video was filmed on Halloween at Wellington venue Valhalla - where Danica and her band perform as mad scientists creating a potion to hand out to fans.

“We thought this was a funny, silly story to play into the song’s suggestive title. We also wanted lots of crazy costumes and goofy character bits to nod to the lyrical reference to Halloween - which is any gay person’s favourite ‘holiday’. I’ve been planning my costume all year, after falling down the rabbit hole of Playboy history and the secrets of the Playboy mansion. So naturally my outfit is a Playboy bunny for the music video… my weird niche little dream come true at last!”

‘Acid’ is an exciting, gritty and high-energy track laced with a chunky bassline, driving guitars and powerhouse vocals. Lyrically, the song is all about queer sexuality - think bubblegum pop-princess meets sexy vampiress and they make a 2000s pop-rock banger!  Danica says ‘Acid’ is definitely an indication of more music to come, so now is definitely the time to tune in and stay tuned!

About Danica Bryant

“Deliciously sweet yet shockingly bitter” (Under The Radar), Danica Bryant is no ordinary songwriter. A pop-folk musician with a gritty rock edge, her songs sink their teeth into intense topics from celebrity culture and mental health, to gender dynamics and body possession. “All hard guitar and pain-filled howl” (The Hook NZ), this woman bites back. Danica’s career boasts national accolades from Smokefree Rockquest and Play It Strange, mentorship with Kiwi legend Bic Runga, and support slots for Elton John, Robbie Williams and Foreigner. Her 2020 debut EP CIDER landed her a placement in APRA’s prestigious Songhubs course, whilst follow-up singles ‘Heart Eyes’, ‘Ready to Bite’ and the NZ On Air funded ‘Libra’ saw her introduction to the NZ Hot Singles Chart. With her 2022 sophomore EP EGO DEATH and her upcoming debut album, Danica Bryant delivers bombastic pop production with lyrical force and an attitude like no other. “Venomous” yet “passionate” (Ambient Light), “cynical but emotional” (NZ Musician), it is clear Danica Bryant’s inventive sound, personal lyrics, and rich vocals make her a treat for every season.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Youtube |Bandcamp | Spotify | Apple

KYLIE PRICE 'TUNA MELT' EP

Initially offered the chance to video record an acoustic version of “Starboard Side” with RGB Sessions at Tileyard in London, Kylie Price took the opportunity to record a collection of her songs acoustically and release them here as the Tuna Melt EP - Out Nov 21st 

Pre-Save EP - "Tuna Melt Sessions  - Live Acoustic” 

Watch the video of "Starboard Side - Live Acoustic"  here 

London based 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 and a commitment to embracing her Filipino heritage, 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, celebrating the richness of her heritage through her music.

Festivals and Headline Shows 2025

Country On the Coast, Southsea UK 26 April 2025

In It Together Wales, UK 23-25 May 2025 

The Goudies, Hare & Hounds Birmingham,UK  April 24 2025

Festivals and Shows 2024

Jon Toogood Support, Bristol  - The Crofter’s Rights Nov 29th 

Jon Toogood Support, London  - The Water Rats Nov 28th

Wakefield, Tileyard North - Supporting Twinnie

The Great Escape Artist Showcase 2024 - Brighton, United Kingdom

York, FortyFive Vinyl Cafe - supporting Matt Hodges
Live! At The Yard Festival 2024 - Wakefield, United Kingdom

Black Deer Americana Festival 2023 - Kent, United Kingdom

The British Country Music Festival 2023 - Blackpool, United Kingdom 
Buckle & Boots - (Nashville Sounds In The Round) Festival 2023 - Manchester, United Kingdom

SXSW Artist Showcase 2022 - Austin Texas
Kylie Price Live (headline) 2023 - Green Note London, United Kingdom (sold out 2 nights) 

Kylie Price Live (headline) 2022 - The Camden Chapel London, United Kingdom 

Lazy Fifty first kiwi band to play at India's largest indie music festival

Gizzy rockers Lazy Fifty have been announced in the line-up for the International Independent Music Festival (IIMF), 22-24 November 2024 in Kerala, Southern India.  

IIMF is back for its third edition with a unique blend of live indie music, art, and culture. The line-up consists of 17 incredible global artists such as Lazy Fifty (New Zealand), Martyr (Netherlands), Cold Drop (Denmark), Afrodelic (Lithuania), Deer MX (Mexico) and popular local acts including The Yellow Diary, Parikrama, and Taba Chake, offering festival goers a feast of niche musical genres.  

Jay Pillai, festival organiser and editor of Lazie Indie Music Magazine, says “Lazy Fifty has developed a style that is uniquely their own, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle of New Zealand”. 

“This fusion of place and sound gives their music a distinctive kiwi flavour – an authenticity that resonates both at home and on the international stage.” 

Lazy Fifty vocalist and guitarist Adrian Athy says “to be the first kiwi band to play at IIMF is quite an auspicious moment for us”. 

“To have the opportunity not to just play here, but to meet musicians and artists from all around the world is incredible. It's exciting to be part of it, this melting pot of international indie music.” 

Although a regular feature at music festivals in New Zealand, IIMF is the first overseas festival for Lazy Fifty as they stop over in Asia on their way to live in the UK.  

Adrian believes IIMF is the perfect bridge for Lazy Fifty’s move to England.  

“We've played a lot of festivals at home, this chance to showcase Lazy Fifty at IIMF bridges the gap between our homegrown festivals and festivals in Europe.” 

Lazy Fifty’s manager Kerry Taggart says “it is awesome that Lazy Fifty is playing at such a prestigious event, to a new audience of potential fans. The cherry on the top is the exposure the band is receiving online.” 

She added that ‘No No No,’ which is about Lazy Fifty’s home-town Gisborne, is proving to be popular with the Indians on social media.  

“It’s like Jay says, being kiwis is a massive part of what Lazy Fifty is about and has a huge influence on their sound and the style of the music. No No No is very kiwi, and I think that is why it is resonating over here. It also doesn’t hurt that the video is a real beauty.” 

Tourism New Zealand has used the video to promote the region to international travellers, in their words “If the music video for the song ‘No No No’ by Gisborne band Lazy Fifty doesn’t make you want to immediately jump in the campervan and set out along State Highway 35, then we don’t know what will!” 

Adrian is looking forward to playing No No No for the crowd at IIMF.  

“No No No always gets great audience interaction, let’s face it, the lyrics are pretty easy! So even with the language barrier I’m sure the locals will really get into it.” 

PSYCH-SURF ROCKERS SOJØURN DROP ENERGETIC NEW SINGLE ‘HIPPIE CHICK’

Aōtearoa indie-surf-psych rockers SOJØURN drop a free-spirited and vibrant vibe with new rock-pop track ‘HIPPIE CHICK’.

The first single off the band’s upcoming debut album due out early 2025, ‘Hippie Chick’ is a fast-paced sonic throwback that sees SOJØURN bust out their bell-bottoms, and lean into their varied rock influences to deliver a sparkling rock-pop gem deftly fused with their unique East Coast surf-inspired spin.

The 5-piece band hail from the sun-drenched surf town of Mangawhai Heads, and comprise Isaac Hunter (vocals/guitar), James Finlay (lead guitar), Visko Bryers (drums), Tony Baker (bass), and Jacob O’Brien (sax).

‘Hippie Chick’ was recorded by Noah Page at Depot Sound, mixed by Paul ‘the Kid’ Jonassen and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studios. Characterised by sweet vocal 1 harmonies, break-beat style drums, and blistering guitar solos, ‘Hippie Chick’ might just be the band’s most energetic release to date!

‘Hippie Chick’ sees Isaac, SOJØURN’s singer, at odds with the world-view of the song's subject; a carefree, hippie girl who is struggling to come to grips with rapidly changing times, as she tries to navigate her life and relationships within a modern world.

SOJØURN bring a fresh blend of cruisy psych-surf-rock and reggae, characterised by catchy lyrical hooks, strong vocal harmonies and psychedelic guitar and saxophone interplay, stemming from their diverse musical backgrounds blending ska, blues, classic rock and reggae to deliver a sound that is distinctly their own.

Since creating SOJØURN in 2018, the band has been busy releasing singles and EP’s in quick succession, starting with the highly regarded SUMMER TAPE EP featuring their top streaming single ‘Still A Mess’, 2021’s MYSTIC WAYS EP, and the KAIPARA LIVE SESSIONS EP released in August last year. Their ultra-cruisy reggae-dub infused Dec ‘23 single ‘Where We Go’ became a student radio fave, topping and inhabiting 95bFM’s Top 10 for several weeks over the following couple of months.

Garnering a solid reputation as a crowd-pleasing live act, SOJØURN have enjoyed blitzing summer tours at mainstay venues, and gracing festival stages coast to coast across the motu as they cement a solid live fan base with their energising and uplifting live sets.

Now with summer fast approaching, SOJØURN are busy booking shows in preparation to hit the road over the coming holiday season. Keep your ear to the ground, live dates to be announced soon!

NEIL MACLEOD 'I NEED A BATTLE (SECOND SELF REMIXES)'

Aotearoa’s  multifaceted  musical  artist  Neil  MacLeod's  alter -ego  project,  Second  Self,  releases  an  innovative  remix  EP  titled  'I  Need  A  Battle  (Second Self Remixes),'  today!  This  collection  reimagines  the  original  songs  from  MacLeod’s  powerful  EP,  'I  Need  A  Battle',  merging  kaleidoscopic  synths  with  solid  beats  in  an  exploration  of  'intelligent'  dance  music,  lovingly  crafted  in  the  name of  self  expression.

'I  Need  A  Battle  (Second  Self  Remixes)'  invites  listeners  into  a  world  that  is  unrestricted,  dark,  and  cinematic,  reflecting  MacLeod’s  journey  from  raver  to  creator.  “My  love  for  this  music  developed  in  my  late  teens  when  I  was  part  of  a  live  techno  crew  called  ‘Crooked  Lidz,’  throwing  raves  in  Christchurch  during  a  time  of  recovery  from  earthquakes.  I  saw  first-hand  just  how  positive  that  music  could  be  for  people  and  the  community,”  MacLeod  shares.

MacLeod  describes  the  creative  process  as  one  of  exploration  and  spontaneity.  “Second  Self  is  in  large  part  just  a  place  for  me  to  do  whatever  I  want.  There’s  no  image  to  maintain  and  no  expectations  from  anyone—so  I  was  just  messing  around  for  the  most  part,”  he  explains.  The  project  evolved  naturally,  with  the  final  touches  focusing  on  cohesion  and  enhancing  the  overall  listening  experience.

This  remix  project  is  a  celebration  of  self-expression.  “I  don’t  think  I  have  anything  specific  I  want  people  to  get  from  the  EP,  I’d  love  to  think  this  record  could  have  a  life  on  the  dance floor,”  he  adds,  humorously  noting,  “If  any  DJs  are  reading  this,  help  me  out!”

Collaborating  with  local  legend  Benny  Tones  for  mastering,  Second  Self  emphasises  the  importance  of  working  with  talented  peers:  “He  goes  far  beyond  what  most  mastering  engineers  are  willing  to  do,  and  I  can’t  express  how  amazing  it  is  to  work  with  him.”

The  EP’s  cover  art,  a  striking  photograph  by  Ken  Cao  taken  during  the  filming  of  'I  Need  A  Battle' (the  short  film  that  accompanied  MacLeod's  album  of  the  same  name),  captures  the  essence  of  the  music  within.  “It  was  an  unexpected  idea  to  use  a  laser,  and  while  it  didn’t  quite  fit  with  the  main  release’s  aesthetic,  it  felt  right  when  I  revisited  it  while  listening  to  the  masters,”  MacLeod  notes.

This  EP  promises  an  exhilarating  journey  through  MacLeod’s  creative  vision.  This  remix  EP  invites  listeners  to  experience  familiar  themes  in  a  new  light  while  embracing  the  spirit  of  the  dance  floor.

'I  Need  A  Battle  (Second  Self  Remixes)'  is  out  now  via  Aotearoa’s  indie  record  label  Particle  Recordings. 

Follow Neil MacLeod
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AVYA - EP: She

24-year-old independent artist Avya is earning her place in Aotearoa's music scene one song at a time.

Avya's single "You Don't Get It" gained nationwide success, spending several weeks on the Hot NZ Singles Chart, while her previous track "Green" was featured on curated playlists by Spotify and Apple Music. 

Since placing fifth on TVNZ's Popstars, she has been a 3-time NZ On Air funding recipient, opened for artists like Jeremy Redmore and Georgia Lines, and expanded her catalogue of original material in collaboration with renowned songwriters and producers, including Joseph Faris, Noema Te Hau and Joel Jones.

Avya's upcoming 3-track EP, "She", is a deeply reflective exploration of relationships, generational patterns, and grief. The opening track, "My Love", sets the tone with its foot-stomping folk-pop energy, offering a message of self-worth wrapped in infectious hooks. The title track, "She", challenges harmful generational cycles, while "The Hurt Don't Sleep" closes the EP with a tender exploration of grief, leaving listeners with a raw and honest emotional resonance.

TRACK-BY-TRACK

MY LOVE

A folk-pop anthem about knowing one's worth in a relationship, "My Love" tows the line of foot-stomping folk and bopping pop music. Hilariously, the song was inspired by an emotional episode of Australia's Married at First Sight 2024. Stepping into the shoes of one of the cast members, Avya takes on the push and pull of this particularly dysfunctional relationship.

This felt like a message that ought to be backed by a solid guitar strum, a catchy hook and a belt-worthy melody. With this, Avya penned the chorus in her home studio in Tāmaki Makaurau. She brought the chorus to a session with co-writer Joel Jones, and the rest of the song came together beautifully.

SHE

"She" is the second instalment and the title track of Avya's upcoming 3-track EP. A thoughtfully crafted yet quietly powerful song, "She" is an ode to breaking a cycle of generational hurt.

In defiance of how many generations have justified bad behaviour by saying, "This is just how I was raised" and "This is all I know," "She" is a song about recognising that behaviour and actively choosing to do differently.

Though the Colleen Hoover novel didn't inspire the song, coincidentally, "She" feels like the song embodiment of the 2024 film 'It Ends With Us'.

THE HURT DON'T SLEEP

The project's closing track, "The Hurt Don't Sleep", is a fragile number focusing on the helplessness that comes with grief.

This emotive track communicates the idea of wishing to take away the pain of a dear friend experiencing the inevitable grief that comes with losing someone.

Produced in the same manner Avya wrote it - with a gentle strum and soft vocal - "The Hurt Don't Sleep" leaves nothing unsaid. Tee Hao-Aickin plays the violin beautifully, bringing another dimension of heartbreak to the song.

"She", the 3-track project by Avya is available for pre-save here.

You can catch Avya performing at a series of intimate shows over the coming months, followed by her performances at Festival One at Hartford Farm in January 2025.

The new single "Insane Blues" from the forthcoming "The Second EP" from The Bravo Uniform Mikes

The first song to be released from the forthcoming “The Second EP” is “Insane Blues”. The song takes a punk approach to mental health issues, gaslighting from the people that are close to you and what an individual might do in that situation

Following on from their first EP “Punching Darts and Breaking Hearts” released earlier in 2024 The self proclaimed “busiest and loudest 2 piece band in all of NZ”, wanted to keep their punchy edge, a definitive live sound in the recording process and strong blues elements with punk undertones and rhythm.

The band has been regarded as a bit silly so they have taken a more serious approach to this record.

The song (and EP) are recorded by Dominic Whipps at Massey University studios, mixed and mastered by guitarist Nick Potts.

The single and full EP will be released on November 16th 2024.

The band will be doing a tour to celebrate playing shows in Taupo, Napier, Wellington, Auckland and Whangarei. 

All streaming and social links can be found through their website: thebumsband.com