AOTEAROA BAND VALLEY KIDS EXPRESS THEMSELVES IN NEW SINGLE ‘STUCK IN MY HEAD’
This track explores “the intricacies of the creative mind” share the band. “When you have a burning desire to create and write, it can be something that you feel needs to be expressed.”
Today (December 6) Valley Kids release their new single and music video ‘Stuck In My Head’.
This track explores “the intricacies of the creative mind” share the band. “When you have a burning desire to create and write, it can be something that you feel needs to be expressed.”
Listen to ‘Stuck In My Head’ HERE
Watch ‘Stuck In My Head’ music video HERE
This song was written as part of a creative challenge. “We wanted to see if we could write a full song with just 1 chord and this was the result. Creating this track was fun because there is no chordal movement (just one chord) so we challenged ourselves trying to make it sound dynamic.”
Valley Kids describe this track as “A tip of the hat to west coast style hiphop with elements of NZ lyrical flavour.”
For the music video Valley Kids collaborated again with Will Wragg, who created their 'Otherside' video. They share “we wanted to film a clip that was reminiscent of our days in the cover scene; booking gigs at bars and having to play to a room full of people that only want to watch the rugby and be able to hear their conversations. It's a nod to our fellow hard working musician family.”
Poneke Wellington based five piece band, Valley Kids is made up of Nai (Te Atihaunui-a-paparangi, Ngati Maniapoto) on vocals, Peter Riley (Ngaruahine, Ngati Manuhiakai) bass, Daniel Sugrue guitar/vocals, and Ihaka Tukapua (Muaūpoko, Ngati Kahungunu) - Keyboard/Vocals.
Valley Kids brings experience from NZ heavy hitters such as Tomorrow People, Sons Of Zion, NLC, and Creative Nātives to craft full and energetic arrangements that move over solid Soul, RnB, Reggae and Rock grooves. The combination of each member's mana and skills builds a style that is both familiar and expertly layered.
‘Stuck In My Head’ follows the release of hit singles, ‘Which Side Are You On?’ released in April 2024 and ‘Money’, Hot NZ Singles charting song ‘Otherside’, ‘Make Me Feel’ produced by DJ Mu a.k.a Fitchie of Fat Freddys fam and Te Reo adaptation of their first single ‘Moni’, all released in 2023.
‘Stuck In My Head’ is out now via all online streaming platforms.
This song and music video was made possible thanks to funding from NZ on Air.
Jason Parker presents Fairy Bread
Following his debut EP How To Be Lonely, this new collection of songs reflect a new chapter for Parker—a chapter of love, discovery, and finding beauty in the small, unexpected moments of life.
LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE & APPRECIATE THE HAPPY DAYS!!!
Pop artist Jason Parker's sophomore EP 'Fairy Bread' is OUT NOW! This project captures the artist’s evolution in both life and music. Following his debut EP How To Be Lonely, this new collection of songs reflect a new chapter for Parker—a chapter of love, discovery, and finding beauty in the small, unexpected moments of life.
Written in collaboration with producer Maude Minnie Morris, ‘Fairy Bread’ emerges as a heartfelt exploration of growth, resilience, and hope, all while showcasing Parker’s distinctively sunny and optimistic musical disposition.
The EP opens with its title track, ‘Fairy Bread’, which represents the heart of Parker’s story. Inspired by the idea of transforming life’s challenges into something sweet, just like fairy bread turns plain white bread into a joyful treat, this song became an anthem for making the most of life’s simple joys. “There are always sprinkles to be added in life if you look for them,” Parker explains. “It gets better, and 'Fairy Bread' is about showing up for yourself, making the most of what you have, and believing that hope is always there.”
The EP’s second track, 'All Of You', reflects the excitement and possibility of new love. Written in the early days of Parker’s move to Auckland, the song captures the sense of anticipation and dreams that accompanied his fresh start. Parker crafted the entire song in his head during his drive up from Wellington, inspired by the hope of meeting someone special—a dream that soon became a reality.
Next comes 'Every Goddamn Minute', a deeply personal song that delves into Parker’s experience of falling in love for the first time. Full of vulnerability and sincerity, the song portrays the moment of wrestling with the weight of saying 'I love you' for the first time. 'Crash', the fourth track, marks a turning point in the EP’s narrative. Written the day after Parker’s relationship ended, it conveys the shock, guilt, and confusion that followed the breakup. The song captures the emotional aftermath of realising that a relationship you thought would last forever has come to an end. It’s a moment of reflection and processing, with Parker confronting the heartbreak head-on.
The EP then moves into The Bright Side, where Parker begins to heal and come to terms with the breakup. The song embodies the strength it takes to move on and look for the silver lining in difficult situations. The bridge cleverly pulls together lyrics from earlier tracks, including Happy Days and Crash, symbolising the emotional growth that comes with time and the journey toward closure. Finally, the EP closes with Happy Days, a song that looks ahead with optimism. As the last track, it serves as an affirmation of brighter times to come and a reminder of resilience. Parker reflects on his personal growth, having emerged stronger and more self-assured after the end of the relationship. “I knew I had to go back and finish Happy Days,” Parker says. “Now that I was out of the relationship and feeling more like myself, I could complete the song with the perspective I’d gained.”
Watch the Fairy Bread lyric video
The visuals for 'Fairy Bread' are as vivid as its message. Parker collaborated with Lane Worrall to develop playful, colorful cover art that reflects the EP’s themes of growth and joy. "When Jason first approached me with the 'Fairy Bread' concept, I started by listening to the songs and thinking about how the themes could be translated into visuals through colour," Worrall shares. Each track was paired with a dominant color, creating imagery that reflected the song’s message and vibe.
The team took a DIY, resourceful approach, often shooting in intimate, familiar spaces. “Shooting in places like driveways and bedrooms allowed us to stay low-budget while still producing magic,” Worrall explains. The use of bright, camp visuals drew on inspirations from pop art, queer high camp, and Hollywood glam, perfectly aligning with Parker’s desire for the visuals to feel “bright, camp, and fun.”
“We really created a supportive environment where everyone contributed,” Worrall adds. “Jason’s adventurous spirit made it a collaborative and exciting process, from the lighting to his Mum knitting sweaters for each look.” These vibrant visuals enhance the emotional storytelling behind each track, bringing the EP’s themes of growth and hope to life in a vivid, joyful way.
Parker also worked with Cee Blu on the lyric videos, ensuring that fans could engage with his storytelling on a deeper level. “Pop music is more than a catchy tune—it’s the soundtrack to my life,” Parker shares. “I wanted the videos to be bright, camp, and fun, so listeners could sing along with me at shows.”
Reflecting on 'Fairy Bread', Parker sees it as a milestone both in his career and personal life. “This EP will always remind me to stay hopeful and true to myself,” he says. “It captures a time in my life where I experienced love for the first time, collaborated with amazing creatives like Maude and Lane, and lived out my pop star dreams.”
With 'Fairy Bread', Jason Parker invites listeners into his world—a world where love, growth, and hope take center stage. Whether you’re experiencing first love, navigating heartbreak, or just looking for a reminder to find joy in life’s little things, this EP is for you. As Parker says, “There’s always hope. Keep making fairy bread, keep making 11:11 wishes, and never stop believing in the sprinkles that make life sweeter.”
'Fairy Bread' is out now via Aotearoa's independent music label Bigpop Records.
Jenny Mitchell to Open for Kasey Chambers
Acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter Jenny Mitchell will open for Australian country music legend Kasey Chambers on her 2025 Australian tour. The highly anticipated tour will see Mitchell perform alongside Chambers in a series of shows across the country, in celebration of Chambers’ critically acclaimed new album; Backbone.
Acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter Jenny Mitchell will open for Australian country music legend Kasey Chambers on her 2025 Australian tour. The highly anticipated tour will see Mitchell perform alongside Chambers in a series of shows across the country, in celebration of Chambers’ critically acclaimed new album; Backbone.
The announcement follows a huge year for Jenny, who’s current single ‘Where the Water’s Cold’ is receiving support from Australian radio. Originally from Gore, Jenny recently received a scholarship to play at Nashville’s iconic Americana Fest before returning to Australasia to play Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast and support another Australian country heavyweight, Adam Harvey, on a run of New South Wales shows.
“Like everyone in my generation of folk/country artists, Kasey has been a huge influence on my music. I am so deeply honoured to be able to share the stage with her and to see so many parts of Australia that I’ve dreamed of exploring!”
Known for her soul-stirring lyrics, Jenny has carved herself a strong following in both New Zealand and Australia and will travel to her 12th Tamworth Country Music Festival in January to open the first show of the Backbone tour at the hallowed Tamworth Town Hall.
Kasey Chambers – 2025 Backbone Tour Dates:
Jan 23 – Tamworth, NSW
Mar 13 – Devonport, TAS
Mar 14 – Prospect Vale, TAS
Mar 15 – Hobart, TAS
Mar 19 – Wyong, NSW
Mar 20 – Newcastle, NSW
Mar 22 – Penrith, NSW
Mar 26 – Albury, NSW
Mar 27 – Thirroul, NSW
Mar 28 – Canberra, ACT
11 Apr – Campbelltown, NSW
12 Apr – Dubbo, NSW
17 Apr – Darwin, NT
1 May – Renmark, SA
2 May – Adelaide, SA
3 May – Port Pirie, SA
10 May – Kalgoorlie, WA
11 May – Esperance, WA
13 May – Albany, WA
14 May – Bunbury, WA
15 May – Perth, WA
30 May – Shepparton, VIC
31 May – Bendigo, VIC
1 Jun – Frankton, VIC
3 Jun - Sale, VIC
6 Jun – Melbourne, VIC
7 Jun – Geelong, VIC
13 Jun – Twin Towns, QLD
14 Jun – Brisbane, QLD
15 Jun – Toowoomba, LD
Tickets available from: https://kaseychambers.com
‘LOVESICK (IN DECEMBER)’
Auckland based, multi instrumentalist, singer-songwriter Jack Robertson along with acclaimed artist, Anderson Rocio are back with a vulnerable reimagining, “Lovesick (In December).” The poignant duet follows both sides of the end of romance imploring, “what did you know that I didn't”?
The heart searing, “Lovesick” gets a holiday rendition declaring, “December feels like it’s the hardest time to end”...
Auckland based, multi instrumentalist, singer-songwriter Jack Robertson along with acclaimed artist, Anderson Rocio are back with a vulnerable reimagining, “Lovesick (In December).” The poignant duet follows both sides of the end of romance imploring, “what did you know that I didn't”?
“Lovesick (In December)” offers listeners cathartic comfort for the season. “The holidays have to be the hardest time to be lovesick” says Anderson “wondering what the other person is doing and what you would be doing together…”
An intercontinental collaboration, the up and coming Robertson met Rocio when she spoke at the University of Auckland, “Anderson came to speak about her experience, seeking advice, I sent her a couple demos including, “Lovesick”... within a couple of months, we were making a version of the song together.”
The track is driven by Jack’s sincere vocal and heartworn lyrics that intertwined with Anderson’s distinctive wail paint an honest portrayal of unrequited love in all of its longing and confusion.
The original version of “Lovesick” debuted in November at #1 on both iTunes Pop and All Genre Charts as well as securing coveted playlisting with Spotify’s New Music Friday and Pop N’ Fresh. On the recent revelation of his emerging artist status Jack laments, ‘I am still trying to fathom the connection “Lovesick” has had in such a short time”
“Lovesick (In December)” arrives December 4th on all platforms.
STREAM:
INSTAGRAM:
Jack Robertson: https://www.instagram.com/jaaaaack.robertson/
Anderson Rocio: https://www.instagram.com/andersonrociomusic/
PAPERCITY unveil pulsing and introspective new alt-pop single ‘Bored’
Nelson-raised, Tāmaki Makaurau-based alt-pop trio PAPERCITY have today shared their high-energy, reflective and deep new single ‘Bored’.
Listen HERE
Nelson-raised, Tāmaki Makaurau-based alt-pop trio PAPERCITY have today shared their high-energy, reflective and deep new single ‘Bored’.
Chock full of pulsing synth layers, soaring guitars, a driving beat, introspective lyrics, and an infectious hook - ‘Bored’ is yet another smash hit in the group’s growing discography! Riding the high of recently released banger ‘Sofa’ (#1 iTunes NZ, #4 Aotearoa Hot 20 Singles Chart, #31 Hot 40 Singles Chart, RollingStone AU/NZ, Radio Control, TAHI FM), PAPERCITY - made up of Alex Hargreaves, Sam Edmonds and Jack Rollinson - are showing no signs of slowing down.
“‘Bored’ is about shutting yourself off to the world and feeling bored of it at the same time,” explains lead singer and guitarist Alex. “I hope it’s the kind of song that people blast when they’re sitting alone in their bedroom.”
Recorded across the group’s hometown of Nelson, the track came to life across Ryan Beehre’s (Minuit) studio, and in drummer Sam’s bedroom. ‘Bored’ was then sent to Clint Murphy in the UK for mixing, before being mastered by Ryan Smith in Nashville, TN.
“There’s a kind of freedom working in that kind of environment, where you can be really creative,” says Alex. “The last time we did recording at Sam’s house I was about 14, so it was cool to be back in the same place working together.”
Today’s release, and the success of smash hit ‘Sofa’, follow what has been a steady climb to the top for the trio. With just four singles released, they’ve received playlisting and support from BBC Radio One and BBC Music Introducing presenter Ollie Winiberg; their sophomore single ‘Feel’ appeared in the Official Aotearoa Hot 20 Singles Chart, and won the Best Music Video Award at Top of the South Film Festival, for the track’s impressive self-directed video.
Excitingly, another stellar music video for ‘Bored’ is on the way! Also directed by Alex - stay tuned for its release December 11. Alongside creating all the PAPERCITY music videos, Alex has directed music videos for the likes of Jujulips, Alien Weaponary and more! Fans will not want to miss the captivating new clip, which further solidifies the depth and complexity of the feelings expressed in ‘Bored’.
Even more to look forward to - the electric trio are bringing their bangers to the stage - heading on a national summer tour with Grip-Tape and The Rainfall! More info and tickets from UTR
Aotearoa’s modern-māori-marley, Casual Healing to release ‘Water The Good Seed’ featuring The Hongi Slicker (AKA Troy Kingi)
In the wake of his debut album, Driftwood, Casual Healing (AKA Nikau Te Huki) has recorded the soulful roots reggae waiata, Water the Good Seed featuring the mystical Hongi Slicker (AKA Troy Kingi)
In the wake of his debut album, Driftwood, Casual Healing (AKA Nikau Te Huki) has recorded the soulful roots reggae waiata, Water the Good Seed featuring the mystical Hongi Slicker (AKA Troy Kingi), which is set for release on the 6th of December, 2024.
This sweet reggae single gives nostalgic notes of the golden era of music, Te Huki states, “It was written as a mantra to banish bad habits and serve as an uplifting reminder to practice the simple habits that keep us smiling and untroubled.”
Water The Good Seed was produced by Te Huki at his studio Te Whare Chur, who shares "I put the beat together a few months after Driftwood came out. I started with the bassline that was inspired by a Midnite track called Same Boat. The melody, rhythm and lyrics flowed through. Before long, the song was alive. I wanted someone else to breathe life into it. Troy Kingi hit me up one day, so I sent him the demo and he sent back 20 tracks of vocals."
Te Huki and Kingi encourage the listeners to learn, uncover and share our true history, shine light on the forces of love and fear, and document a hopeful prophecy for the mokomokopuna, the wise children of tomorrow.
Casual Healing will release four EP's in 2025, with each body of work representing a fundamental element in Te Taiao, the natural world. Water The Good Seed is the highly anticipated first single of this series, breaking the ice for a cascade of new music to come. With an ever-growing national and international following, after sold out tours of both Aotearoa and Australia in recent months, Casual Healing has received a groundswell of love for his debut album Driftwood and many await the new works from this young, prolific songwriter.
FLAXXIES + TIKI TAANE TEAM UP ON INFECTIOUS NEW SINGLE + VIDEO ‘DAYWRECKER’
Delivering a sarcastic yet playful commentary on New Zealand’s drinking culture, ‘Daywrecker’ shines a light on the challenging habits many of us fall into whilst being stuck in, or surrounded by, our problematic national past-time.
Aotearoa’s fun-loving musical larrikins FLAXXIES unleash brand new single ‘DAYWRECKER’, featuring everyone’s favourite Kiwi artist, the legendary TIKI TAANE – singing on the track, featuring in the video, and of course, at the helm producing and mixing. A fresh, authentic reggae-infused banger, ‘Daywrecker’ is the perfect playlist addition and soundtrack for your carefree summer mish!
STREAM ‘DAYWRECKER’ FT. TIKI TAANE HERE
A sunshiny reggae anthem imbued with the spirit of summer, ‘Daywrecker’’s contagious rhythm and catchy hooks embodies the vibrant energy of Flaxxies sonic persona. Delivering a sarcastic yet playful commentary on New Zealand’s drinking culture, ‘Daywrecker’ shines a light on the challenging habits many of us fall into whilst being stuck in, or surrounded by, our problematic national past-time.
But in true laid-back Flaxxies fashion, this playful tongue in cheek peek at drinking culture also carries a hopeful message: that not all of our days will be wrecked, and our struggles won’t define us forever.
A magical Flaxxies and Tiki Taane mix are not a new blend of musical goodness, as Taane has been working with the young band for a few years now, having produced and mixed many of their recent songs, including the acclaimed SUNSTRUCK EP.
However, with ‘Daywrecker’, this is the first time Tiki Taane has gotten out from behind the mixing desk and onto the mic with Flaxxies, the idea developing earlier this year when Taane discovered their demo and expressed interest in working with the band to develop the track to its full potential.
Flaxxies share: “We enjoyed experimenting with new production techniques and instruments, including trumpets, percussion and Tiki’s famous vocal dubs. There are some really cool moments in the song that we can’t wait for you to hear - especially Tiki's verse, which seamlessly ties everything together and elevates the energy of this track to a new level.”
Old school mates Eric Goodger (lead guitar), Nick Tait (rhythm guitar), Chris Manning (bass/trumpet), Benji Humphries (lead singer) and Neo Lee (drums) are renowned for their energetic surf-rock vibes and reggae grooves, and ‘Daywrecker’ stays true to form as the band keeps the energy high while experimenting with a fresh twist on their usual reggae sound.
“With ‘Daywrecker’ our goal was to create a true Kiwi classic – one that encourages listeners to reflect on our culture, while also presenting as a fun and light-hearted banger for your Kiwi Summer roadie. BOSH!” state Flaxxies.
Taane would not only end up involved musically on ‘Daywrecker’, he also seals the deal by embracing the fun role of the TV anchorman in what can only be classed as a quintessentially humourous Flaxxies video.
WATCH ‘DAYWRECKER’ FT. TIKI TAANE HERE
As with all things Flaxxies, the song continues the bands strong connection to the Coromandel and to New Zealand’s classic summers with the single artwork created by local artist Jason Tahatika from Whitianga.
The new tune will undoubtedly garner the love from radio ears around the country and add to the widespread radio airplay lists Flaxxies have managed to accrue with their most recent feel good summer hit ‘Heart Of Fire’, and all their instant Hot 20 NZ Single Chart entries ‘Blister’; ‘Liquid Gold’; ‘Snapped Up (By The Boss)’; ‘Time To Go’, and ‘Cast Me Away’.
Fast becoming one of Aotearoa’s most in-demand young live bands thanks to their infectious fun-filled energy, Flaxxies are a must-see act. Set to hit the hot holiday spots, Flaxxies are playing summer festy shows in Taupō, Coroglen, and Matarangi at the end of the year and heading into 2025.
Flaxxies accumulate a solid live following wherever they perform, so round up the wider whānau and book your tickets to see them live now. Go to flaxxies.nz for all the details.
SEE FLAXXIES LIVE THIS SUMMER!
Friday 27 Dec Le Currents 2024 Taupō
Monday 30 Dec Sublime with Rome Coroglen
Saturday 4 Jan Coro Classic 2025 Matarangi
For more information and tickets, go to: https://linktr.ee/flaxxiesband
Underwire 'Always'
With both feet in the two-tone movement of the 1980s, and the ska of such icons as The Clash, The Ruts, and Stiff Little Fingers, ‘Always’ is a breakup song, but one of acceptance rather than melancholy: about picking yourself up and moving on with life.
From Wellington, New Zealand’s Underwire, ‘Always’ is a heartfelt skapunk / reggae song of love and loss. With both feet in the two-tone movement of the 1980s, and the ska of such icons as The Clash, The Ruts, and Stiff Little Fingers, ‘Always’ is a breakup song, but one of acceptance rather than melancholy: about picking yourself up and moving on with life. Since the band’s formation, ‘Always’ has been the ray of sun in Underwire’s stormy live sets: a bright counterpoint in their genre-jumping musical range. Producer Scott Seabright has caught the love of the band for this song, delivering a great little track with light, shade, and panache.
‘Head first, heart first, hopeless - what the hell?’
A departure from the more familiar indie / alternative rock of Underwire releases to date, ‘Always’ is sung by the band’s guitarist and the song’s author, Mark ‘Spike’ Roxburgh, who says: “The lyrics just kind of poured out over the riff when I wrote it: a simple reggae style riff, which had a starkness to it, and seemed to fit the sense of loss at the time. It’s more of a punk riff really, but that’s just how I write.”
Underwire play like they mean it, with a distinctly fun, stormy, alt-rock sound – with hints of surf punk, garage rock, swampy blues, and psychobilly – and in the case of the new single, ‘Always’, two-tone ska and reggae. Formed from the collision of Clash and Pixies covers bands, Underwire quickly became a popular live act on the energetic Wellington indie music scene. Since their debut single ‘Gravity’ in 2023, Underwire have released a string of singles produced by Scott Seabright; clocked up over 27,000 YouTube views of their self-made videos; received airplay on indie radio around New Zealand, Australia, the US, UK, and mainland Europe; and have spent more than six months on Apple’s global New Rock and other playlists.
In their current lineup, Underwire features members of Wazzo Ghoti / Wazzo Clash, Proxies, Shanakie, and Head Like a Hole: with founding members Johnny Mills (guitar, vocals), Jane Brimblecombe (vocals), and Mark ‘Spike’ Roxburgh (guitar, vocals) being joined by Mark Hamill (drums), and Steve Tremewan (bass).
The new single ‘Always’ is out now for download from Bandcamp, and streaming from Spotify, Apple, Tidal, Deezer, and Amazon. Find Underwire: B