AJA’s long-awaited, ethereal debut album KĀWAI is here
Award-winning Aotearoa artist AJA has today shared her timeless, unraveling and hypnotic bilingual debut album KĀWAI. 7 years in the making, today’s body of work from this bona fide talent is a truly authentic display of an artist finding her voice and inviting listeners into the inner-workings of her world.
Listen to KĀWAI HERE
Award-winning Aotearoa artist AJA has today shared her timeless, unraveling and hypnotic bilingual debut album KĀWAI.
7 years in the making, today’s body of work from this bona fide talent is a truly authentic display of an artist finding her voice and inviting listeners into the inner-workings of her world. Alongside producer Mara TK (Electric Wire Hustle, Meeting House Records), and a talented network of band members, collaborators, and features, AJA (Ngāti Raukawa, Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Porou) effortlessly blends her ethereal melodies and flexes mesmerizing vocal agility with introspective musings on the world around her.
“KĀWAI is a reflection of who I am, who I love, what I have respect for and what I value,” says the artist.
Rich in influences from te ao Pākeha and te ao Māori, KĀWAI births a unique fusion of these worlds, a new flavour of indigenous soul music reflective of AJA and her community. Gently pulling apart the fourth wall, the Pōneke-based creative invites listeners into the homes in which the record took form, to experience the kōrero, whānau, and aroha that fill these spaces. “These spaces became sanctuaries for the creative process,” explains AJA. “In between takes, kōrero would unfold - moments of reflection, connection and laughter found their way into the fabric of the music.”
The album’s creative roots date back as far as 27 years ago with 2023 single ‘Te Reo Ki Whakarongotai’ - an ode to the preservation of mātauranga, reo, and traditions of Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai - the marae and iwi to which AJA belongs. Explorations of motherhood, mana wāhine, the digital age and consumerism, whakapapa, whānau, and community are all rife in the thematic foundations of KĀWAI.
The record also features recent single ‘Quiet Storm’ - the breathtaking collaborative fruit between AJA and rising Pōneke MC MĀ. Today, listeners are engulfed in the dreamy warmth of new single ‘Mutual Behaviour’ - which reflects on AJA’s upbringing in Porirua. She describes the track as “a journey from ever since, until now - an introduction to me.” ‘Kōpere’ joins the list as another previously unreleased stand-out track, musing on sibling relationships and taking inspiration from a poem written by Keita Newbery, which was then adapted into theatre-art show ‘Toi Aamai’ - produced by brother Tola Newbery (actor, theatre practitioner and multidisciplinary artist).
Made with the support of NZ on Air, the journey of capturing KĀWAI took flight in Mara TK’s home studio in Newtown, Wellington. Weaved with the impressive musicianship of AJA’s band; Mara TK (producer/engineer, sitar, bass, guitar, vocals), Riki Gooch (drums), Cory Champion (drums), Peter Riley (Bass), Te Kawairirangi Herangi (guitar), Jules Blewman (guitar), Trey Ropata (guitar), Briar Barnsley (vocals), Daniel Hayles (keys), Leonardo Coghini (keys), Louisa Williamson (flute), Mahuia Bridgman-Cooper (strings), and Tola Newbery (vocals) - the work continued across AJA’s homes in Ōtautahi and Porirua, before mixing was completed by Mara and mastering by Bennytones (Ben Horton) of Organik Music and Mike Gibson. “This process wasn’t just about making music - it was about creating memories, sharing stories, opening the door to our life with whānau at the center of it all.”
You can also get very excited about seeing AJA perform live on the upcoming L.A.B summer tour! For more info and tickets head HERE
Vince Harder Releases' Final Track of 2024 “Ur My $ign”
Aotearoa’s R&B powerhouse Vince Harder is closing out 2024 with a bang, releasing his highly anticipated single “Ur My $ign”
Aotearoa’s R&B powerhouse Vince Harder is closing out 2024 with a bang, releasing his highly anticipated single “Ur My $ign” on Friday, 29th November. The NZ On Air-funded track delivers an uplifting R&B groove infused with pop melodies and a hip-hop-inspired beat that demands attention.
Written alongside hip-hop legend Kings, one of Vince’s favourite collaborators, “Ur My $ign” explores the joy of finding your perfect match. The track playfully dismisses the importance of Zodiac signs when true love aligns with the stars.
Listen to Ur My $ign here.
About Vince Harder
Vince Harder is a true icon of Aotearoa’s music scene, with three #1 hits and a catalogue of Gold and Platinum-certified songs for artists such as Stan Walker, Titanium, and P-Money (“Everything”).
This year, Vince achieved global acclaim by contributing to Sheila E.’s GRAMMY- nominated album “Bailar”. A multiple award-winner, Vince’s accolades include:
Two-time Best Male Artist at the Vodafone Pacific Music Awards
APRA Maioha Award for the Te Reo anthem “Aotearoa” with Stan Walker
Best Urban Artist and Best Producer (2016)
Vince’s solo releases, including “Not Gonna Let Go” (2018) and “Next To You” (2019), have topped charts and dominated airwaves.
Beyond his music career, Vince has made his mark in musical theatre, starring as Simba in Disney’s The Lion King (Australia) and Barry Belson in the NZ/Australia tour of Jersey Boys.
In 2021, Vince joined TVNZ’s Popstars reboot as a panellist alongside Grammy-winner Kimbra and Nathan King. He’s also toured extensively, including four tours with Guy Sebastian. His 3rd studio album, HORIZON (2022), has amassed over 850,000. Spotify streams.
With a dynamic career spanning music, theatre, and television, Vince Harder remains one of Aotearoa’s brightest stars.
“Ur My $ign”
Is a testament to his talent and passion, promising to be a must-listen track as the year comes to a close.
Jujulipps presents SUPERSTAR
Jujulipps is BACK with her aptly titled sophomore EP, ‘SUPERSTAR’, a genre-defying project that boldly blends hip hop, alternative, and punk influences into a unique and vibrant sound.
Jujulipps is BACK with her aptly titled sophomore EP, ‘SUPERSTAR’, a genre-defying project that boldly blends hip hop, alternative, and punk influences into a unique and vibrant sound. Available Friday, 29th November via Bigpop Records, ‘SUPERSTAR’ showcases Jujulipps’ signature lyrical prowess, fearless experimentation, and the unapologetic confidence of an artist only intending to go up!
The EP opens with the focus track of the project, “Nightshift,” a pulsating anthem of frustration and drive, capturing the artist’s lived experiences working late hours and dreaming of stardom. Written during a grueling period of juggling a full-time night shift job and sessions in the music studio, ‘SUPERSTAR’ reflects Jujulipps’ personal journey through the challenges of balancing artistic passion with the demands of survival. As she explains, “It’s such a common story for creatives juggling this world of capitalism while simply wanting to create. I’m just grateful I was able to put that in my music, and I hope others can learn and relate to that all-too-common story.”
Each track on ‘SUPERSTAR’ represents a different chapter of this journey, from calling out societal standards in “Good Guys” to celebrating self-love and independence in “Game Over,” and culminating in the cathartic release of “Free,” written after being fired from her job. The project is a testament to Jujulipps’ resilience and belief in her destiny, stating, “Each second I dreaded, I thought of myself on stage in five years, the crowds I’d be playing to, the people who would know my music. That drive fueled everything.”
A standout feature of ‘SUPERSTAR’ is Jujulipps' exploration of different genres and vocal styles, with production by WHOSHOTSCOTT, whose genre-bending approach to punk hip hop complements Jujulipps’ fearless artistry. “At the core, Jujulipps will always be hip hop,” she says, “but I’m inspired by so much that I can’t be put into a box just yet.”
Visuals are another key aspect of ‘SUPERSTAR’, with a recurring alter- ego character, “Superstar Juju,” who symbolises Jujulipps’ unstoppable confidence and manifestation of unbridled power. The character, brought to life with the help of makeup artist Tallulah McClean and stylist Estelle Schuller, represents Jujulipps’ belief in her inevitable rise to fame. “Superstar Juju is a reflection of who I am—a go-getter with out-of-this-world confidence. She’s the power of manifestation embodied,” she explains.
The accompanying music video for "Nightshift" was directed by the visionary team at Night Watch, who discovered Jujulipps while she was performing at the iconic Camp A Low Hum festival. "We were transfixed. Jazz danced so hard she punched Jaya in the eye and we had to spend the rest of the night in the medical tent," they recalled, highlighting the unique way their collaboration began. Straight after the festival, the team reached out to Jujulipps and went on to create not only the "Nightshift" video but also the video for her single "Game Over."
The ‘Nightshift’ video offers a narrative-driven depiction of Jujulipps navigating the grind of a night shift, while her future self—Superstar Juju—looms in the background, representing her destined future. "With 'Nightshift,' we wanted to highlight the duality of Juju’s personality: a down-to-earth working-class woman, but also a full- blown superstar," said the directors. "We wanted to get creative with how these two elements could coexist within oneself, and the concept was elevated by the looks Juju created with stylist Estelle Schuler and Hair & Makeup Artist Tallulah."
The production took a unique approach to enhancing the video's visuals and atmosphere, with the location itself becoming a character. "The space's creepy essence guided our camera work," they explained. "We played with high and low angles that sold the unsettling vibe, while leaning into street light orange tones and nighttime blue hues. Having Ben Montgomery as our Director of Photography was key to this, especially with his talent in lighting, which allowed for complex, creative setups."
'SUPERSTAR' features five standout tracks, all linked by the overarching themes of self-determination, resilience, and questioning societal norms. Tracks like “Good Guys” address frustrations with toxic relationships and societal expectations, while “Don’t Smoke My W**d” offers a humorous yet honest look at Jujulipps' personal life, created spontaneously in the studio after a long day.
On the collaboration front, Jujulipps worked closely with WHOSHOTSCOTT, who was instrumental in shaping the project’s bold sound, blending elements of punk, hip hop, and alternative influences. The EP was mixed by Josh Strand and mastered by Howard Rogers, completing the vision of a boundary-pushing project that refuses to be boxed in.
Jujulipps describes SUPERSTAR as a true reflection of her growth and determination as an artist: “This is just a small peek of what the next 20 years will hold. I feel incredibly connected to this music, and I’m excited for the world to experience it.”
SUPERSTAR will be available in CD form and on all streaming services on Friday, 29th November via Aotearoa’s independent label Bigpop Records.
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.