Miriam Clancy ~ SHAME

New indie-rock slowburner Shame delivers an expanse of sound on a bed of drum machines, synths and chorused guitars that carry New York based New Zealander Miriam Clancy through the retelling of a nonfiction story. And there on this pilgrimage, like a revival, the band comes to life: the machine turns into a real drummer and drops with the bass into a space deep and wide, electric guitars churn over a backdrop of keening vocals and the words "still hurt" keep moving, ever forward.

Self-produced in Brooklyn with executive production by UK giant Mike Hedges; Miriam's band recorded on location in NYC and Philadelphia, mixed in Aotearoa by Jol Mulholland and mastered by Joe Lambert in New York. Clancy is sponsored by Maton Guitars as featured here, alongside the talents of Sean Mullins on drums and bass player Jeremy McDonald.

*shades of Godley and Creme, Bruce Springsteen - and god knows what else.

SHAME (single) - audio, socials & artist website - linktr.ee/miriamclancy

**out December 18th, 2024 on all digital platforms**

"She's one of our top singer-songwriters. The critics wax effusive." 

Gary Steele - Metro (magazine, New Zealand)

Indie Country Star, Murphy Moore, Makes Her Mark With Bold Debut EP, ‘Break’

Aotearoa’s fresh new indie country voice, Murphy Moore, releases her powerful debut EP, ‘Break’, a compelling collection of songs exploring themes of freedom, resilience, and reinvention. ‘Break’ is now available on all major streaming platforms and promises a raw, unfiltered look at heartache, spontaneity, and the courage to step out of life’s boundaries.

‘Break’ isn’t just a title; it’s a journey through self-discovery and growth. With lyrical depth and an unmistakable country soul, Murphy Moore gives her listeners a glimpse into the bittersweet thrill of heartache, love lost, and the freedom found in choosing an unconventional path. Each track on the EP weaves a narrative, showing how even the most challenging breaks can lead to resilience and transformation.

‘Break’ is a musical roller coaster, reflecting the whirlwind of experiences Murphy was navigating at the time of writing. “This EP was inspired by a period in my life where I felt a deep longing for change. It’s a break up, a break free and a break into the new. I wanted each song to reflect those moments of release and reinvention the thrilling and the painful”.

Produced by multi-instrumentalist and engineer, Christian Tjandrawinata, ‘Break’ has a unique sound that blends both classic country with contemporary indie. The EP was recorded with some of Tāmaki Makaurau’s top musicians at Roundhead Studios.

The visual aspect of ‘Break’ is as evocative as the music itself. Murphy has delivered two captivating music videos for her singles, ‘For The Most Part’ and ‘Break The Line’, and is set to release one more. The music video for ‘Roam’ will premiere on YouTube on Thursday 19 December.

T A L I - 'RESISTANCE'

2024 has been a busy year for the award winning Electronic artist TALI.

Her international touring circuit has taken her to New York, Bali, the UK and throughout Europe.

This year Tali is also celebrating 20 years since she released her first ever record - the highly acclaimed 'Lyric On My Lip' which came out on the Bristol based label Full Cycle. To celebrate she has been touring a live and intimate show, performing songs from her eight album back catalogue which infuses elements of Jazz, Soul and Lo Fi.

While Tali has released some notable singles this year ('233' alongside Paige Julia on the TRUTH owned Deep Dark and Dangerous Imprint, and 'Gimme What I Need' produced by Kiwi DnB hot-shot Rova, which came out on her own label Reign Recordings), it has been a couple of years since her last long player release - the self produced album 'Future Dwellers'

Now Tali brings us a five track EP in the form of 'Resistance', an EP that is brimming with a myriad of emotions, cinematic layers, punchy Jungle breaks, heart stirring vocals and raging electric guitars. Every track is a nod to some sort of resistance against the status quo - an invitation to rebel against the narrative, whether it be society's expectations, the media, politicians, the patriarchy - even the music industry itself.

The EP encompasses Jungle, Drum n Bass, Melodic Techno and Electro, and in terms of production and writing, may just be some of Tali's best work yet.

This EP is testament to Tali's years of experience and fortitude in a fickle and often brutal industry, an EP that speaks loudly and unapologetically, and reminds others, particularly Women and those who often find themselves on the fringes, that - 'We cannot be what we cannot see' and 'We too deserve to have our voices heard'

Katie Thompson’s Anthemic New Single “The Best Is Yet To Come” Set to Inspire This Summer

Alt-country artist Katie Thompson is set to captivate audiences with her upcoming single, The Best Is Yet To Come, an anthemic track with a fire-under-your-feet attitude. 

Known for her authentic storytelling and sharp wit, Katie’s latest release embodies her signature style, blending heartfelt lyrics with a driving beat and undeniable energy. The Best Is Yet To Come draws from her experiences and conversations with other musicians, delivering a message of resilience and optimism.

“My day job involves working with other musicians on their digital marketing, so I hear about the highs and lows of their journey," Katie shares. "I often find myself playing the role of life coach, reminding them to stay focused when times get tough, keep their eyes on the prize, and push through the struggles to reach their goals. This song is for anyone chasing their dreams.”

This release follows a year of significant achievements for Katie, including being named a finalist for Best Country Song 2024 and performing at major festivals like the The Great Kiwi Beer Festival earlier this year and South Island Wine & Food Festival this month. Katie’s impressive career highlights also include opening for legendary artists Don McLean and Sir Elton John, performances that have helped cement her as one of New Zealand’s most compelling alt-country voices.

Listen to “The Best Is Yet To Come” here

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Youtube | TikTok

CALLA 'BURN CYCLE'

Burn Cycle is an evocative and dynamic composition that encapsulates the raw power and transformative symbolism of fire. Composed for the burning of a three-storey effigy at Kiwiburn festival in Aotearoa (New Zealand), the 18-minute piece reflects the cyclical nature of destruction and renewal. The work weaves between moments of ecstatic intensity and contemplative calm, echoing the primal rhythms of a tribal communion with the elements.

The three-part structure of Burn Cycle reflects life's perpetual pulse. Hear, Now, This captures the raw immediacy of existence, inviting listeners to embrace the present moment. Inheritance builds towards a collective revelation, celebrating the release found in shared surrender. The final movement, Frame of Reference, turns inward, exploring memory, whakapapa, and the transformative pain that often accompanies rebirth

Blending acoustic and electronic soundscapes, Burn Cycle portrays fire as both a fierce force of destruction and a profound agent of creation.

Multifaceted, Queer Creative ARDON ENGLAND Unveils Dark Club Anthem F.T.S (Fuck The Speaker), Just in Time for Headline Show

Following the resounding success of his genre-defying debut EP That’s Camp, which established him as a trailblazer in Aotearoa's music scene, ARDON ENGLAND (Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Ati Awa, Kahuranaki Marae) is back with a gripping new single, F.T.S (Fuck The Speaker), releasing December 13th. This electrifying track leans into the darker sounds of nightlife, crafted specifically for DJs and those who revel in the heavy bass and intensity of the club scene. ARDON will also debut a high-energy club mix and a shorter radio version.

Inspired by the edgy, immersive world of Euphoria, F.T.S came to life after Ardon heard a bass line on the show that sparked the song’s vibe—a sonic embodiment of connections that are chaotic yet irresistible. "I wanted something heavier, something that didn’t quite make sense at first, but hit perfectly when it all cames together in the club,” says ARDON. This track captures that elusive moment when the music hits, and for a few minutes, you’re lost, ready to “Fuck The Speaker.”

Produced alongside Kez Emm, F.T.S is ARDON’S first release since That’s Camp, a critically acclaimed EP that explored deeply personal themes and resonated widely within the queer community. Featuring bold, unapologetic tracks like F.E.M Man, which confronts the impact of religion on LGBTQI+ individuals, and collaborations with Aotearoa talents such as Krisy Erin (Plastic) and Keisha (Neon World), That’s Camp was celebrated as a powerful, camp-house manifesto.

ARDON ENGLAND, a dynamic queer, Māori creative with roots in Whanganui, is known for his boundary-pushing sound and artistry. From representing Aotearoa in dance to gathering fans with each new release, he has become a voice for queer inclusion and resilience in New Zealand’s electronic music scene.

To celebrate F.T.S, ARDON will headline Auckland’s Cassette Nine on December 14th, bringing a stacked DJ lineup to make this a night of unforgettable beats and immersive energy.

SHOW LINK

https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/gig/92914/Ardon-England-Thats-Camp-Auckland-Show.utr

Taite Music Prize 2025 Nominations are now open

Taite Music Prize ceremony is confirmed for April 15th, 2025
Q Theatre, Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland

For the full detail on specific eligibility and nomination forms please visit:
www.indies.co.nz 

Nominations for the Taite Music Prize close at 5.00 pm on Tuesday, 31st January 2025. 

Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) with the support of Founding Partner Recorded Music NZ announce the return Taite Music Prize for 2025. This event continues to celebrate the vibrant and diverse voices of Aotearoa's music community. IMNZ now welcomes nominations for various prestigious categories: the Taite Music Prize, the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award, and the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award.

Named after the legendary journalist Dylan Taite, this prestigious award celebrates artistic excellence in music, regardless of genre, sales, or label affiliation. Dylan's legacy as a pioneer in music journalism lives on, not only through his trailblazing interviews but also through his passion for championing New Zealand artists and their stories.

IMNZ remains committed to showcasing the exceptional talent across Aotearoa's music scene. This award recognises albums from all genres, focusing solely on artistic excellence, without regard for genre, sales, or label affiliations. Any album released by Aotearoa/New Zealand artists during the 2024 calendar year is eligible. The recipient will be awarded a $12,500 cash prize, generously provided by Founding Partner, Recorded Music NZ. Last year, the Taite Music Main Prize was awarded to Vera Ellen for her album Ideal Home Noise released on Flying Nun Records.

IMNZ's Chairperson, Pippa Ryan-Kidd, remarks,  "2024 was a year of significant achievements for our independent musicians, who excelled in their musical releases, awards, and tours. The Taite Music Prize is testament to Aotearoa’s thriving Arts Culture - both with Creators and Audience. IMNZ is immensely proud to support and contribute to the work of our diverse and vibrant Independent artists and it’s so great to see them kicking goals - whether it’s Vera Ellen playing all the Australian dates with Crowded House, or Princess Chelsea touring all over the USA with The Beths.”

As a founding partner of the Taite Music Prize, Recorded Music NZ CEO Jo Oliver says, “We are very proud to continue to support the Taite Music Prize and celebrate the artistic excellence of the independent music sector in Aotearoa.”

In 2025,  the awards ceremony will once again usher in NZ Music Month with the event taking place on April 15th.  This event, deeply entrenched in celebrating artistic talent, invites the Aotearoa music community to join in the festivities.

The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award recognises emerging talent in Aotearoa. It is awarded to debut albums or EPs (minimum four tracks) released by IMNZ members in the preceding year. 

The selection process for these awards involves a diverse academy of IMNZ members, musicians, and industry experts who shortlist the finalists. An independent panel then determines the winners after a thorough deliberation.

The ceremony will also feature the Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award, NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award and The Independent Spirit Award.

For complete details on eligibility and nomination forms, please refer to the information provided at the end of this page.

The Taite Music Prize nominations close at 5.00 pm on Friday, 31st January 2025.

PAPERCITY follow up electric new single ‘Bored’ with epic music video!

Watch the video HERE
Listen to ‘Bored’ HERE

Aotearoa alt-pop trio PAPERCITY have today uploaded yet another inventive, unique and explosive music video for recently released smash hit ‘Bored’!

Just a week after it’s release, PAPERCITY (Alex Hargreaves, Sam Edmonds and Jack Rollinson) are riding the high of their latest banger ‘Bored’ - a pulsing, introspective, and infectious new track that is now joined by an impressive new music video.

Directed by lead singer Alex - who’s behind all the group’s videos, and has directed music videos for the likes of Jujulips, Alien Weaponry and more - the new clip further solidifies the groups place in Aotearoa music, with their engaging aesthetic across music and visuals.

“I wanted to show a visual representation of feeling isolated,” says Alex. “But I also wanted to push it to the extreme so we put the band in really uncomfortable situations that were super difficult to perform in. Wrapping each other up in cellophane and performing while tied together was

a pretty good band team building exercise.”

Capturing the depth of the subject matter of ‘Bored’, the music video was shot across multiple Tāmaki Makaurau locations - a studio, swimming pool, and container - creating a visual feast that fans won’t want to miss.

The release of ‘Bored’ comes hot off the heels of another successful banger ‘Sofa’ - which saw a plethora of pick up from across Aotearoa (#1 iTunes NZ, #4 Aotearoa Hot 20 Singles Chart, #31 Hot 40 Singles Chart, RollingStone AU/NZ, Radio Control, TAHI FM). Just four singles deep, the Nelson raised, Tāmaki Makaurau-based group have also seen love further afield - including playlisting and support from BBC Radio One and BBC Music Introducing presenter Ollie Winiberg. PAPERCITY’s 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.

Yet another exciting release from this up and coming Aotearoa group - you won’t want to miss this epic new music video! What's more, fans can get amongst the PAPERCITY buzz on their national summer tour with Grip-Tape and The Rainfall! More info and tickets from UTR