AOTANGO Quintet- International Tango Day Concert Series

December 6th - Westlake Girls Event Centre, Auckland - Doors open 6:30pm

December 9th - Globe Theatre, Palmerston North - 7pm

December 10th - Public Trust Hall, Wellington - 7pm

AOTANGO's International Tango Day series will feature tango and world music, showcasing guest dancers and singers celebrating International Tango Day.

The concerts in Auckland & Wellington are also a milonga where after intermission, the floor will open up and tango dancers will dance around the audience.

The Auckland event (December 6th) is free for children aged 18 and under and will feature Latin American food vendors offering cuisine from Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. Guests can also enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

AOTANGO Quintet features violinist Andrew Beer (Concertmaster of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra), pianist Somi Kim (NZTrio), bassist Gordon Hill (Principal Bass, Auckland Philharmonia), jazz guitarist Sam Swindells, and world champion accordion Grayson Masefield.

Tickets are available online: 

Auckland: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/international-tango-day-concert-milonga-aotango-quintet/auckland/takapuna

Palmerston North: https://nz.patronbase.com/_GlobeTheatre/Productions/TANG/Performances

Wellington: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/international-tango-day-concert-milonga-aotango-quintet/wellington

Award-winning Children’s music duo The KaRs release new album

The KaRs are gearing up to release their latest album ‘Home for the Holidays’, a mixture of new waiata and classic carols reimagined promoting the overarching kaupapa of kotahitanga (unity, togetherness).

With new songs ‘Kiwiana Christmas’, ‘Home for the Holidays’ and ‘Christmas Boogie’, ‘Christmas is Coming’, and ‘Underneath the Christmas Tree’ the tracks will set the scene for an inclusive, fun and festive season.

The KaRs, made up of Kane Parsons and Regan Taylor, are a children's entertainment duo that creates educational and fun music, videos, and books.

Kane says the pair wanted to create an album that would spread joy and inclusivity.

"We wanted to create a musical experience that would embrace the holiday spirit while respecting different traditions and beliefs. Therefore the album features a diverse collection of songs that cater to both those who celebrate Christmas and those who don't.”

The songs are performed in a variety of languages thanks to a community of people coming together to help make the album as diverse as possible. The languages include te reo Māori, Samoan, Fijian, German, Spanish, and Irish.

The kaupapa of the new album can be summed up through the kupu (words) heard throughout the titular single ‘Home for the Holidays’, a heart-warming song that recognises the importance of family, friends, and loved ones during the holiday season.

To be together (kotahitanga), to be together (kotahitanga)

Home for the holidays, That's where I want to be.

With my whānau and friends, and Pohutukawa trees

Hoki mai ki tō Kainga, kei konei tō ngakau

Hoki mai ki tō kainga, whakanuia tō whanau

The KaRs are committed to using their music to spread joy and inclusivity. They believe that music has the power to bring people together and create a more just and equitable world.

Home for the Holidays is available from 30th November on all major streaming platforms with a limited vinyl release.

Since graduating from UCOL's theatre school in 2000, Kane Parsons has been working professionally in the arts industry as a composer, actor, teacher, musical director, and MC. His most recent work was the composition of an orchestral storytelling of The Legend of Okatia which had its world premiere at the Regent on Broadway on 27 May 2023 and received a standing ovation.

Regan Taylor, Ngati Kahungunu – Ngati Pikiao is a graduate of the UCOL theatre school. He has been working professionally as a Director, Actor and Tutor for the past 20 years with various companies around New Zealand and Australia. He is a current member of “The Māori Sidesteps”. He lives and works as a freelance theatremaker in Wellington. More recently directing te reo māori shows for national tours for Taki Rua Productions and directing students at Toi Whakaari - New Zealand Drama School. Regan’s experience is vast and is often invited to workshop and develop new works, for emerging artists and major theatre makers in New Zealand. A part-time actor, full-time friend.

Together, they have been awarded Global Audio Story of the Year Award 2023 ‘The Legend of Okatia’, People’s Choice Award Song of the Year 2023 ‘64’, and People’s Choice Album of the Year 2023 ‘Runner-up’.

The KaRs also share a heartfelt thanks to the following people and organisations for their help in bringing the album to life. Palmerston North City Council, Manawatū People’s Radio, Hugh Dingwall, Creative Sounds, Nigel Mauchline,  Abi Symes, UCOL, Lachlan Ferguson, Roy Tankersley, Louise McConkey, Sister Mary Anna, St Dominic’s College, Christine Argyle, PN Brass Band, Keenan Buchanan, Freyberg High School, Kirsten Clarke, Bella & the Fellas, Milana Mariu-Reade, Charlotte McMillan, Noelle Fauolo, Paul Turner, Caleb Turner, Emma-Katte Johnston, Aaliyah Padgett, Lachlan Ferguson, Amy Hunt & Six to Sixty Choir, Gino Sanguinetti, Jack Cui, Jennifer Padmanabhan, Emma & Kent Richards, North St School, Joanne Reiri-Tatana, Layton Lowe, Huw Jones, Cora & Jake Cassells-Hehir, Kippy Hehir-Parsons, Elizabeth Hehir, Mycah Keall, Graham Johnston, James Tait-Jamieson, Sebastian Hurrell, Anasi’i Jerome Leota, Stephen Gallagher, Mike Gibson, Skye Furneaux, Waisea Jikowale, WG Wesleyan Youth Choir, Jonetani Seru, Josevata Bose, Maca Qauqau, Esther Traill, Dee Shlomo, Carolin Eames, Claudia Gunn, Leo Mwape, & Wiremu Te Awe Awe.

AARADHNA UNVEILS HER HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ALBUM, SWEET SURRENDER

After an eight-year creative journey, Aaradhna is back with her most powerful and personal album to date, Sweet Surrender. In this long-awaited release, she steps fully into her artistic power, taking complete control of her music, from writing and producing every track on the album to playing many of the instruments herself. This album marks a bold new chapter for the independent artist, who is forging her own unique path and embracing her creative vision with confidence and conviction.

“Creating this album was a complete reset for me” Aaradhna says. “I had to figure it all out myself. I didn’t want to rely on anyone else to create what I can hear in my head.”

Starting from scratch didn’t deter her, Aaradhna set up a studio and got right into it with a fearless approach, Aaradhna immersed herself in every detail, even teaching herself to play new instruments and experiment with sound in ways she never had before.

“I used to just build the skeleton of the songs,” she reflects, “but now, I’m building the body. I’m adding the layers and the finishing touches, with the support and help from my amazing band. I’m pouring my soul into every note, every chord.”

While Aaradhna’s commitment to total artistic control is evident, she also embraces a sense of release and freedom on *Sweet Surrender*. “This album is me letting go,” she explains. “It’s not about proving anything. I’m not getting too technical or trying to sing so hard. I’m okay with being soft. I’m not fighting against the current, I’m just going with the natural flow. That’s what Sweet Surrender is about.”

The result is an album full of raw, emotional depth, weaving elements of mysticism and reality into a sound that is uniquely Aaradhna. From the mesmerising introduction of “She” to the joy-filled energy of “Mango Tree” and “Mmmm,” Aaradhna brings listeners into her world of love, joy, heartbreak, and healing. “Be Free” and “The Beautiful Ones” (a heartfelt tribute to her late mother) show another side of her artistry, exploring the vulnerability and pain that come with personal loss.

Yet, no matter the emotional highs or lows, one constant remains in Aaradhna’s music: her unwavering belief in love. “Love is the foundation of everything I do,” she says. “It’s what people connect with most, and it’s what will always guide me as an artist.” 

*Sweet Surrender* is a testament to Aaradhna’s growth, both as a woman and as an artist.
By trusting her inner voice and embracing her full creative power, she has crafted an album that is completely her own. “This is the truest reflection of who I am, and I’m proud of it,” she says. “I’ve never felt more confident about my music. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s mine.” 

Intros Live Featuring Paige At Freida Margolis

For this special INTROS Live session, Georgia will be joined by award-winning, platinum-selling artist Paige. In an intimate setting at Freida Margolis in Auckland, Georgia will sit down with Paige to explore the making of her debut album KING CLOWN, which debuted at #2 on the NZ Album Charts. Together, they will delve into the stories, emotions, and inspirations behind the album’s tracks, giving the audience a unique look into Paige's creative journey.

Following the conversation, Paige will treat the audience to a solo performance, bringing her chart-topping hits from KING CLOWN to life in an acoustic setting. This one-of-a-kind event combines music, storytelling, and conversation, offering fans an exclusive and personal experience with two of New Zealand's brightest talents. Don’t miss out!

INTROS Live is a live extension of Georgia Lines' acclaimed web series INTROS, a platform dedicated to elevating and spotlighting emerging female and non-binary artists.
The series takes audiences beyond the music, diving into the personal stories and creative processes of the featured artists, creating a deeper connection between them and their listeners.

From a star-studded celebration of Patsy Cline at the Ryman Auditorium, Tami Neilson performs and releases “Three Cigarettes In An Ashtray”

“I will never forget this moment. 3 days have passed and my feet still haven’t touched ground” Tami Neilson 

Watch a clip here of Tami Neilson performing “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray”, as part of the Patsy Cline Tribute concert at The Ryman Auditorium

Stream  - Tami Neilson  -  “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray”

Patsy Cline: Walkin’ After Midnight premiered Friday, November 22 at 9 p.m. on PBS (check local listings), on pbs.org/gperf and the PBS App. 

Country music legend Patsy Cline was a trailblazer in her genre, paving the way for artists who followed in her footsteps. This fall, Great Performances presents Patsy Cline: Walkin’ After Midnight, a star-studded concert filmed at the historic Ryman Auditorium, Patsy’s home stage in Nashville, to celebrate her life, legacy and music. The concert features artists from numerous genres like country, pop, rock, gospel, bluegrass and more including Wynonna, Ashley McBryde, Grace Potter, Beverly D’Angelo, Crystal Gayle, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Mickey Guyton, Kristin Chenoweth, Rita Wilson, Natalie Grant, Kellie Pickler, Pam Tillis, Tigerlily Gold, Reyna Roberts, Tami Neilson, Tiera Kennedy, Mandy Barnett, Annie Bosko, The Isaacs and Home Free. The program also features archival interviews and commentary from fellow artists and those who knew Patsy including her husband, Charlie Dick, and friends like Loretta Lynn, Dottie West, Roy Clark and Owen Bradley. Great Performances – Patsy Cline: Walkin’ After Midnight premieres Friday, November 22 at 9 p.m. on PBS (check local listings), on pbs.org/gperf and the PBS App.

About Tami Neilson 

From being cradled as a baby in the arms of Roy Orbison, to performing a duet with Willie Nelson, you would think that Tami Neilson lived a country music fantasy life. However, in between these monumental occurrences, The Neilson Family Band, with Tami’s parents and two brothers, were busking in the streets of small town Canada in order to put food on the table, performing gospel concerts to prisoners, and roaring across North America in an exploding RV on her way to open for Johnny Cash.

And then Tami left to start her own family on the other side of the world in New Zealand, where she now resides. From starting over at open mic nights to headlining theaters and major festivals across New Zealand, Tami has now won almost every music award possible, becoming one of New Zealand’s most beloved artists. 

Her latest album, KINGMAKER shot to #1 on the NZ Top 40 charts and garnered critical acclaim in The Guardian, American Songwriter, MOJO and RollingStone. Her sold-out tour spawned a live album backed by the power of the 80-piece Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Fans from around the globe have discovered her music through cameo appearances on the hit TV show “The Brokenwood Mysteries” and singing the theme song in the latest Spongebob Squarepants movie, “Saving Bikini Bottom” for which she wrote the opening and closing songs. This year, Tami will be appearing as part of the star-studded lineup for the upcoming PBS special on the music of Patsy Cline, filmed live at the Ryman in Nashville and fulfilling her lifelong dream of making her debut on the Grand Ole Opry.

“An imperious talent” - THE GUARDIAN

"Neilson is at the forefront of the women who are taking back country music.. this is the album of the year." 

- NO DEPRESSION

“A fire breathing belter on her own terms.” - ROLLING STONE

TAMI NEILSON

WEBSITE / SPOTIFY / APPLE MUSIC / YOUTUBE /  FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / BANDCAMP

dān dān (ONE HALF OF ERSHA ISLAND 二沙岛) ANNOUNCES SOLO SINGLE ‘pressure cooker’

Chinese-Pākehā artist dān dān announces her debut solo project with folk-pop single ‘pressure cooker’ — out November 29th. Known as one half of the wasian sibling duo Ersha Island 二沙岛 from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Danielle Hao-Aickin is developing her craft, displaying maturity in vocal tone, production and experimentation.

“I wrote this song about growing up with the pressure to be perfect as the older sister in a Chinese family, and living up to your parents’ expectations. It's also got some silly, goofy elements to it, including food puns and an ode to my love for Hainan chicken rice…and honestly, it’s an allusion to just how much food is part of culture and family.”

Made with the support of NZ On Air, ‘pressure cooker’ reflects on the significance of her upbringing in intense classical piano training and how it demanded an environment of tension ‘pressure cooker’ adds small elements of Mandarin Chinese and features an audio snippet of 9-year-old Danielle being taught by her old piano teacher.

dān dān layers in lyrical wordplay and rich harmonies to explore the more playful and intimate sides of her songwriting as a solo artist.

Produced by Dan Martin (Jordyn With A Why) and co-written with ASHY and Huiming Wu (花溪 Flowerstream) at BIG FAN’s Fan Camp: Pan-Asian in April, younger sister Tee Hao-Aickin joins on violin.

The music video is scheduled for April next year, directed by Flora Xie and produced by Natasha Skuljan. Inspired by the transformative film Everything Everywhere All At Once, the video will span multiple locations in its exploration of mother-daughter tensions.

Pre-save: ‘pressure cooker’ HERE

Tāmaki Makaurau born singer-songwriter Star Chart releases their sophomore EP White Girl Whining

STAR CHART’s latest EP release weaves the mundanity of suburban life into tales of humour and quirky charm. On the back of two light-hearted single releases in 2024, the full five-track EP delivers three more relatable songs for listeners to digest. 

After finding a shared love of lyrics and unusual song subjects, Hart teamed up with producer Jess Haugh for this project.

“We had a ball of time recording together with the help of session musos and ‘New Music Development’ funding,” says Hart, who met Haugh through Woman About Sound workshops.

With her simple yet highly relatable lyrics, Hart delights by making the smallest moments in everyday life the stars of the show, if only for a song.   

The 5-track EP crosses multiple stylistic genres and runs the thematic gamut from resentment baking, “I’ve baked all my resentment, in a burnt carrot cake, for you” to pet digestive issues, “The cat has gone incontinent and likes to do his business on the floor.” to self-depreciating moments, “My story’s long and tiring, uninspiring, it’s about me and all my whining” 

In a world flooded with overly earnest songwriters, “White Girl Whining” is “clever, catchy, and loveable pop music” and the perfect soundtrack for those who believe life is too short to take seriously. 

About Star Chart:

Multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Hart is no stranger to the stage. Chrissie worked as a professional pianist and singer internationally for 5-star hotels and cruise lines. Her first original release was a collaboration with chart-topping electronic duo Yolanda be Cool in 2013. 2019 brought her first independently released EP No Birthday.

WEST AUCKLAND’S DOUBLE PARKED SOUNDTRACK THE COMEDOWN ON NEW SINGLE, ‘SCARS / SOBER’

Back with their third new single of the year following ‘Leopard Print Coat’ and ‘Living Room Floor’, West Auckland “post-surf” rockers Double Parked have dropped their latest single, ‘Scars / Sober’, arriving just in time to soundtrack the Aotearoa Summer season ahead. 

‘Scars / Sober’ finds the five-piece band exploring the aftermath of relationships, on a track that’s intricately layered with instrumental transitions and tempo switches, taking listeners on a stirring and epic emotional journey that shapeshifts from surf-rock, to punk, to psychedelic, and reggae dub. ‘Scars’, the first half of the five minute 30 second track, finds frontman Tom Purdie’s raw vocals over deep bass lines and jangling guitar chords, before midway through the track enters crashing percussion and jolting riffs. 

The tracks second half see’s the pace of the guitars pick up into a frenzied tornado of punk as Double Parked embody the tumultuous energy of a crashing comedown, singing “now that I’m sober, I told you that it’s over, now that it’s over, you wish that you were sober”. The last minute and a half of ‘Scars / Sober’ decelerates into woozy reggae / dub rhythms, symbolising the final phase of the comedown - and simultaneously coming to your senses after being intoxicated in lies. 

“Travvie had written that little chord section on the bass guitar, and then we were at Piha in the mist of the night, just sitting there writing, and that’s when I came up with all the lyrics. That’s when we came up with the bones of the song, and then we fleshed it out with the boys from there,” Double Parked detail of the track.

The band add of the track's epic key signature switch ups, “I think half of the switch ups in the song were born out of happy accidents. Chad came up with the idea of going into the 4/4 key signature, and then Carlin wrote the riff on the spot. Somehow, it got into that deep dub towards the end.”

‘Scars / Sober’ follows a huge year for Double Parked following the cult following amassed from their 2023 debut EP Lost in the Groove, the success of previous singles 'Leopard Print Coat’ and ‘Living Room Floor’, opening sets for Australian surf punk band Lazy Ghost and Christchurch indie-rockers The Butlers, a near sold out headline show at Auckland’s Galatos, and upcoming summer festival sets at Le Currents.

Labelling their distinctive sound as self-described “post-surf”, Double Parked are redefining the traditional surf rock subgenre for a new generation, making music that’s quintessentially rooted in New Zealand surf culture while pulling from a melting pot of global influences from psychedelic, to punk, reggae, dub, indie-pop, and much more.  

Keep up with Double Parked on Spotify, Instagram and Facebook.