EAST COAST SURF ROCKERS SOJØURN DROP SUMMERY REGGAE SINGLE “STAY’ & ANNOUNCE 5-SHOW SUMMER TOUR
Aōtearoa indie-surf-psych rockers SOJØURN drop an energetic and summery vibe with the new reggae track ‘STAY’.
Aōtearoa indie-surf-psych rockers SOJØURN drop an energetic and summery vibe with the new reggae track ‘STAY’.
The third single off the band’s upcoming debut album due out in early 2025, ‘STAY’, is a nostalgic reggae track that captures the warmth of summer love and the desire to hold onto fleeting moments. A classic Aotearoa Reggae track, with SOJOURNS' take on the genre, the song is ready to go just in time to celebrate summer!
‘STAY’ was recorded by Noah Page at Depot Sound, mixed by Paul ‘the Kid’ Jonassen, and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studios. With its laid-back rhythm and soulful groove, “STAY” transports listeners to sunlit days and cozy nights, evoking timeless memories.
The single marks the band's third consecutive release in 2024, following the success of their tracks "HIPPIE CHICK" and "PLAY IT COOL." Both of these previous releases were included in the NZOA Music "New Tracks" compilation and received airplay on regional radio stations 1 across New Zealand. Following the success of their recent releases, the band is taking their new music on the road with the SOJØURN Summer Tour playing five shows across the North Island. The tour will feature performances at Le Currents & Shipwrecked Festival, along with stops at venues in Northland, Auckland, and the Waikato.
SOJOURN Summer Tour
20th December Waipu Hotel
27th December Le Currents - Taupō
28th December The Yard - Whāingaroa
18th January Bethells Beach Cafe - Tāmaki Makaurau
7th February Shipwrecked Festival - Te Arai
For all ticketing and event details head to https://linktr.ee/sojournmusicnz or follow @sojourn_music (IG).
RISE THE WICKED – ‘Small City’
The "Small City" music video showcases a meticulously hand-crafted cardboard city, built entirely from scratch. Through a mix of spray-painted stencils and creative design, the city comes to life.
Rise the Wicked (RTW) is an electrifying five-piece Hard Rock and Metal band from Waikato, Aotearoa, New Zealand. They unleashed their debut album, ‘State of Oblivion’ on digital platforms in 2023, quickly attracting a dedicated fanbase with their high-energy guitar-driven sound, intense rhythms, and commanding vocals paired with powerful lyrics.
They’re following up this success with a stunning music video that is a true labour of love. Directed by Aaron Christiansen of d.f.lfilms, the video brings an inventive twist to the band’s hard-hitting themes of loss, depression, and anxiety, culminating in a fiery destruction that reflects the emotional intensity of the track.
The "Small City" music video showcases a meticulously hand-crafted cardboard city, built entirely from scratch. Through a mix of spray-painted stencils and creative design, the city comes to life, Mixed with the Bands powerful performance each band member has been projected onto miniature screens embedded in the city's windows, as if performing live within the tiny world they've created. As the song builds toward its explosive finale, the city ultimately succumbs to flames, burning to the ground in a spectacular visual metaphor for the song’s darker themes.
This isn’t Aaron`s first time wowing audiences with his unique visual storytelling. His previous work on Rise Above for Singer Song Writer Davey Beige won Best Animated Music Video at the International Music Video Underground Awards in November 2023, and was selected for seven other film festivals worldwide, further cementing his reputation as a Director to watch.
Rise the Wicked continues to push the boundaries of their sound and visuals, fusing gritty, raw emotion with a cinematic edge. Their live shows have already earned rave reviews praised for their powerful performances, energy and intensity.
The band is thrilled to share this new chapter in their musical journey and invites fans to dive into the visceral world of "Small City".
ERIN G & ALTERCATION
Tāmaki Makaurau-based singer-songwriter Erin G and Queenstown DJ/Producer Altercation today dive into new sonic territory with “Kind Eyes,” the first single off their EP, “Dream It Again”, set for release on 2 May 2025.
Erin G and Altercation Announce Dream It Again EP (Out 2 May 2025), with First Single Kind Eyes Dropping 29 November 2024
Tāmaki Makaurau-based singer-songwriter Erin G and Queenstown DJ/Producer Altercation today dive into new sonic territory with “Kind Eyes,” the first single off their EP, “Dream It Again”, set for release on 2 May 2025. This poignant track captures Erin G’s intimate storytelling alongside Altercation’s soulful side of drum and bass, setting our palette for an EP that delves into love, loss, and reflection.
A joint creation by Erin (Erin G) and Joel (Altercation), “Dream It Again” showcases a side of liquid drum and bass with a refreshing, introspective depth. “Our first single Kind Eyes is about moving through grief and embracing our capacity to feel deeply, even in moments that seem like an ending,” shares Erin. “It’s about the seven stages of grief…holding onto memories, letting go, and finding peace in the process.”
In “Kind Eyes”, Erin and Altercation expand beyond the usual bounds of drum and bass, they want to reach listeners with its indie-like vibe and emotional pull. “This isn’t just another DnB track; it’s music you can sit with,” says Joel. “It’s reflective, a world away from the high-energy style usually associated with drum and bass.”
Known internationally for his releases on Norman Foreman and Rubricate Records, Altercation (Joel Malcolm-Smith) has built a name in the liquid drum and bass scene, bringing a soulful touch to his music. A regular at festivals across Aotearoa, he’s set to perform at Northern Bass this summer as he shares his latest work with Erin G.
Since her debut, Erin G has become a captivating voice in Aotearoa’s music scene, blending genres like indie and drum and bass into her unique sound. Her recent feature on EMWA’s Show Me The Way even caught the attention of tastemaker Zane Lowe, who called it “a f***ing heatrock” on George FM. Now, with Dream It Again, Erin brings that same authenticity, with a more introspective edge.
KIWI HIP-HOP ARTIST WILL MCCLEAN DROPS EP ‘WALKING THE WALK’
Following the success of his debut album DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE, hip-hop artist Will McClean returns with his new 6-track EP, WALKING THE WALK, released today
Following the success of his debut album DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE, hip-hop artist Will McClean returns with his new 6-track EP, WALKING THE WALK, set for release on November 29th. The first two singles, FIND MY WAY and WALKING THE WALK, mark an exciting new chapter for Will, establishing a new launch point to jump to the top of Aotearoa’s hip-hop scene.
Youthful but wise beyond his years, Will McClean is heavily inspired by Mac Miller and Tom Scott, and writes music written through the lens of an everyday kiwi, for everyday kiwis. Jazzy saxophone melodies, fluid basslines and lyrics culminate into a deep dive into the depths of vulnerability, allowing a cathartic experience for his listeners. Creating music packed with perspective, McClean is a vessel leading the way for the youth to self-identify and follow on their own journeys.
Speaking on his earliest influences and the establishment of his artistry, Track 1: FIND MY WAY pays homage to where Will has been and where he’s heading, underlaid by a sample, string-rich beat and delivered with unapologetic Kiwi flair. Track 2: NO NEED TO PRETEND, speaks from the perspective of an everyday person stuck in the cycle of life. With a chopped piano driven beat, Will shares stories he’s lived through the pen and speaks to the honest struggle of disenfranchised Kiwis, holding up a mirror to the struggles we sweep under the rug.
Will steps up to the next stop in Track 3: WALKING THE WALK, a track that embodies the themes of authenticity, resilience, and living up to one's words; along with FLEETING MEMORIES, a sonic changeup featuring continued script pertaining to pain in one’s journey.
In Track 5: RICHIE MCCAW we are reminded of the comforting essence within McClean’s lyrics, making references to icons familiar to kiwis. Capturing the feel of his homeland and chief influence Home Brew, McClean uses RICHIE MCCAW to explain himself. Track 6 WAITING is the final stop, characterised by a flirtatious Raye, Amy Winehouse-inspired hook, featuring collaborator JClean.
In McClean’s words, “WALKING THE WALK is about showing up, being genuine, and making an impact through actions, not just words. The dynamic between having the passion and then taking actions required to achieve results is an interesting balance to work out. I was walking at 9 months which was over a year before I spoke words hah”
Will McClean has shared the stage with some of Aotearoa’s top homegrown artists such as Home Brew, Summer Thieves, Ché-Fu, Troy Kingi and Fat Freddy’s Drop and proves to be an artist to watch in Aotearoa’s hip hop community, with WALKING THE WALK being the current landmark on his musical journey.
GROOVE INCORPORATED 'AOTEAROA REGGAE'
Aotearoa Reggae is the fourth single from Auckland-based Groove Incorporated - celebrating and tracing the history of reggae music in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Aotearoa Reggae is the fourth single from Auckland-based Groove Incorporated. The track celebrates and traces the history of reggae music in Aotearoa, New Zealand. It captures the journey from the late 1970’s Jamaican-influenced sounds embraced by Māori and Polynesian communities, the socio-political and racial justice issues it helped address during the 1980’s, through to today’s festival-driven reggae scene, enjoyed by a wide audience.
The song features classic reggae elements: a steady “one drop” beat, authentic electric-guitar and piano skanks, a grooving organ bubble, and a street-inspired lead vocal supported by rich and soulful harmonies.
The video, released last Monday to tautoko the hikoi to Parliament, has already had 18K streams on Youtube.
AOTANGO Quintet- International Tango Day Concert Series
AOTANGO's International Tango Day series will feature tango and world music, showcasing guest dancers and singers celebrating International Tango Day.
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:
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).
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.
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.”