STRANGE VISIONS 1 - out now on all streaming platforms
After emerging on digital streaming platforms for a brief moment pre-pandemic, and then mysteriously disappearing, STRANGE VISIONS 1 by Auckland-based project Polar Extremes is finally back where it belongs - on all DSPs.
After emerging on digital streaming platforms for a brief moment pre-pandemic, and then mysteriously disappearing, STRANGE VISIONS 1 by Auckland-based project Polar Extremes is finally back where it belongs - on all DSPs.
Listen to STRANGE VISIONS 1 HERE
Undoubtedly one of the quirkiest records to have been completed on Aotearoa shores, STRANGE VISIONS 1 is the work of artist, producer and engineer Quaint, who is as mysterious as the journey this body of work has taken since its conception in the 90s.
“STRANGE VISIONS 1 was written over 20 years, from 1993 to 2019. The apocalyptic theme began even before the influence of pre-millennium tension. Things have only intensified since then,” says Quaint.
“When the album was first finished the official Doomsday Clock was at five minutes to midnight, and the album artwork was prophetically at two minutes to midnight. Now the official clock is at 89 seconds to midnight - the closest humanity has come to destruction.”
“The cover album art is now technically behind the times!”
The album’s lead single ‘Captain Zodiac's Dictionary’ is a splendorous and wacky mash of Victorian hip-hop, Vaudeville, post-modern satire, funk and pop noir.
Listen to ‘Captain Zodiac's Dictionary’ HERE / Watch the music video HERE and the lyric video HERE
“In the spirit of Gulliver's Travels, it is a satire of modern times where truth, post-truth and fantasy collide. Where science and mythology and conspiracy theory become combined in public perception. It is simultaneously fun and dark/twisted - a nihilistic nursery rhyme. There is something both sublime and ridiculous about a society in a philosophical and apocalyptic free fall,” says Quaint.
STRANGE VISIONS 1 also includes the tracks ‘So What If I’m On Television’, ‘Racing This Time’, and the ultimate track ‘Harps’, which Quaint describes as ghost funk: “Spirit, heart and body all together - it unites all the chakras.”
It’s anyone’s guess as to why STRANGE VISIONS 1 disappeared during lockdown, to re-emerge at a time when the future of society precariously hangs in the balance. All that really matters is that the album is back and it’s just what the doctor ordered.
Catch Polar Extremes live at Moon in Wellington on Saturday, July 19 for the STRANGE VISIONS 1 album release show. Polar Extremes will be supported by Bottom Bunk Club and The Rugs.
Get tickets to the STRANGE VISIONS 1 Album Release Show here
InDuna Releases “Take My Pain,” Final Single Ahead of Sophomore EP GO HIGH
Afro-pop artist InDuna released his final single, Take My Pain, ahead of his sophomore EP GO HIGH, set for release 28 July.
Afro-pop artist InDuna released his final single, Take My Pain, ahead of his sophomore EP GO HIGH, set for release 28 July.
Now available on all major streaming platforms, Take My Pain is a soft Afro-pop banger that explores emotional exhaustion, healing, and the power of release. Written and produced by InDuna (with co-production from Jpec), the track reveals a more introspective side of his songwriting and sound.
Set for release on 28 July, InDuna’s sophomore EP titled GO HIGH is a five-track project shaped by resilience, self-belief, and soulful Afro-pop energy.
‘GO HIGH’ Tracklist - OUT 28 JULY
Two Face
Go High
I’ll Be There
Don’t Break My Heart
Take My Pain
Rachel Louise releases indie-pop anthem for hit Prime Video Show ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’
Indie artist Rachel Louise dives into a tender and hard-hitting coming-of-age story with her new single ‘Meet Me at the Beach’. Inspired by the pop culture phenomenon, ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ series on Prime Video, the track comes a week after the final season of the show - which just so happened to drop on Rachel’s birthday.
Indie artist Rachel Louise dives into a tender and hard-hitting coming-of-age story with her new single ‘Meet Me at the Beach’. Inspired by the pop culture phenomenon, ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ series on Prime Video, the track comes a week after the final season of the show - which just so happened to drop on Rachel’s birthday.
‘Meet Me at the Beach’ invites listeners deeper into the world of the show and Rachel ultimately hopes the track will be heard by show creator Jenny Han, embarking on a social media journey to make it happen. ‘I’m struck by the way art often inspires art and I would love Jenny to hear how her storytelling has drawn a story out of me’.
Produced by Ben Malone (Luca George, MACEY, BEXY) and mastered by Chris Chetland, the track’s cinematic soundscape centres around the sonic world of the show. Soft, nostalgic piano, floating guitar, and background ocean textures give way to a driving beat, dramatic impacts and epic pop synths and strings. A dreamy blend reminiscent of early Bon Iver and Taylor Swift’s 1989 era, ‘Meet Me at the Beach’ is likely to resonate with fans of both.
Rachel describes starting the song after watching the first season of ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’, ‘I was so compelled by the coming-of-age story of the main character Isabel (Belly) Conklin, the intergenerational relationships explored, and the way the beach house seems to become a character of its own’. As Belly spends much of the show choosing between two potential love interests, ‘Meet Me at the Beach’ imagines her discovering the fullness of who she is, able to love out of a place of overflow rather than deficit.
‘It’s wild how storytelling offers moments of such profound connection and discovery. Writing ‘Meet Me at the Beach’ has allowed me to name some of my own journey and I’m excited to see that flow beyond me as it’s heard by others.’
A Legacy Reignited: The Warratahs Release Burning Daylight
With a legacy stretching over four decades, The Warratahs are one of Aotearoa’s most iconic and enduring bands. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, roots-driven sound, and captivating live shows,The Warratahs are known for being the early champions of the Americana sound in New Zealand.
With a legacy stretching over four decades, The Warratahs are one of Aotearoa’s most iconic and enduring bands. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, roots-driven sound, and captivating live shows,The Warratahs are known for being the early champions of the Americana sound in New Zealand. Barry Saunder’s collaborative work with Delaney Davidson is testament to his songwriting skills in this genre.
Their extensive touring history includes sharing stages with musical greats such as Billy Joel, The Highwaymen (featuring Johnny Cash), Bob Dylan, and The Carter Family. Their storied career has earned them two Gold albums and one Platinum, marking their place as true legends in New Zealand’s music scene.
Longtime members Barry Saunders (vocals/guitar), Nik Brown (violin, mandolin), Nick Theobald (bass, vocals), and Alan Norman (keyboards, accordion) were deeply affected by the passing of their beloved drummer Mike Knapp (Snapper) in 2022. After a period of reflection, the band welcomed Caroline Easther (The Chills) into the fold on drums — a move that has brought fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose to the group’s sound.
Now, in 2025, The Warratahs are writing a new chapter with the release of their latest album, Burning Daylight. Embracing a modern release strategy, the band opted to roll out a series of singles ahead of the full album drop to engage audiences in the streaming era. This approach paid off, with their single "Little Victories" landing on a Spotify Editorial playlist, introducing their timeless sound to a new generation of listeners.
“It’s so good to still be writing and putting out new music. We’ll keep writing, recording, and sharing new songs. It just feels good to keep the wheels turning. Thank you to everyone who has been on this journey with us over the last 40 years, and welcome to all our new fans! ” — Barry Saunders, The Warratahs
Whether performing on festival stages or crafting songs steeped in country soul and New Zealand storytelling, The Warratahs continue to evolve while staying true to the heart of their sound.
The Warratahs “Burning Daylight” Album Release Shows
July 26 | Thistle Inn, Wellington - ticket information
July 27 | Paekakariki Hall, Paekakariki - ticket information
August 2 | Cossie Club, Upper Hutt - ticket information
Black Comet ‘Episode Two: The Force Between Us’
Following on from their recent funky single ‘We Can Call It Love’, Black Comet is excited to announce their second full-length album ‘Episode Two: The Force Between Us, dropping July 25th — a bold continuation of their space-funk saga.
Following on from their recent funky single ‘We Can Call It Love’, Black Comet is excited to announce their second full-length album ‘Episode Two: The Force Between Us, dropping July 25th — a bold continuation of their space-funk saga. Bursting with cosmic grooves, emotional gravity, and their signature blend of funk, rock, and interstellar flair, the album explores the magnetic push and pull of connection, love, and the unseen forces that bind us.
Supporting the album is their next single ‘Happen To You’, which leans into a heavier, QOTSA-inspired sound, blending gritty riffs with their signature space-funk edge. A hypnotic groove full of tension, it’s a bold follow-up that sets the tone for the album.
To celebrate the release, Black Comet is launching into a tour, kicking off July 26th at Butlers Reef in New Plymouth, Paisley Stage in Napier (August 1st), Whammy in Auckland (August 15th), Totara Street in Mt Maunganui (August 23rd), and finishing at Smash Palace in Gisborne (September 13th).
They are also working on a little something special that will be coming very soon…
Get ready to blast off.
Links:
Album Link: (embargoed until 25th July)
https://dashboard.precise.digital/share/3YZk7MRqmYPRgCC5AE4q
Pre-save Link:
https://precise.fm/theforcebetweenus
Press Photos:
https://tinyurl.com/blackcomet-2025
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRB9_R4jz81mhD6CJi0yzpQ
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/artist/61np11Ikm9fN1ytvbBSTmF?si=7Vc6Hv3DSq6_63sqOgeVeg
https://www.facebook.com/blackcometband/
https://www.instagram.com/blackcometband/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@blackcometmusic
Bandcamp
TîMMY Delivers a Powerful Internal Dialogue in New Single “Never Leave”
Afro-Kiwi artist TîMMY returns with “Never Leave”, the second single from his forthcoming EP “The Source”, arriving on July 25. Blending Afropop, hip-hop, sungura elements, and soul, the song is an introspective anthem — a raw and uplifting conversation between self, spirit, and source.
Afro-Kiwi artist TîMMY returns with “Never Leave”, the second single from his forthcoming EP “The Source”, arriving on July 25. Blending Afropop, hip-hop, sungura elements, and soul, the song is an introspective anthem — a raw and uplifting conversation between self, spirit, and source.
At its core, “Never Leave” is a reminder to stay grounded when the world feels uncertain. It's about fighting doubt, finding purpose, and remembering that even in isolation or doubt, you're not alone. Switching seamlessly between English and Shona, TîMMY speaks directly to his roots, affirming faith, perseverance, and divine guidance.
The track was created in collaboration with tinaye, a Zimbabwean-Australian producer, and features contributions from a global network of musicians. It carries a spiritual energy and emotional honesty that’s both personal and universally relatable.
The EP *The Source* explores identity, belonging, and the complexity of growing up between cultures. TîMMY, who was born in Zimbabwe and raised across the world before settling in Aotearoa, channels these experiences into a genre-defying sound that’s rapidly gaining attention in New Zealand and beyond. His single “Scared” earned support from Life FM, NZ On Air, and a range of blogs and radio platforms.
With “Never Leave”, TîMMY continues carving out space for Afro-diasporic storytelling in Aotearoa’s music scene — bringing rhythm, message, and movement in equal measure.
“Never Leave” will be available on all streaming platforms from July 25
Pre-save now: https://music.drm.co.nz/never-leave
Verity to release 3rd single - Friday 25th July
"Sober Strangers” is Verity’s uncomfortable confession about a sad kind of “love” that only exists under neon lights and the blurriness of one too many drinks. Verity strips it down to the truth about how she and her partner only ever knew each other through slurred nights, bar shifts, and messy hookups after closing time. It’s raw, intimate, and painfully honest... a story of mistaking chaos for connection.
"Sober Strangers” is Verity’s uncomfortable confession about a sad kind of “love” that only exists under neon lights and the blurriness of one too many drinks. Verity strips it down to the truth about how she and her partner only ever knew each other through slurred nights, bar shifts, and messy hookups after closing time. It’s raw, intimate, and painfully honest... a story of mistaking chaos for connection.
But somehow, when the lights come up, Verity finds it in herself to ask... Who are we when we’re sober?
This isn’t a song about losing an intoxicating love “Sober Strangers” dives into the feeling of waking up and realizing the most intoxicating thing was never anything more than the glass on the table.
Verity will be performing the single at her release party at the iconic “Hotel Cafe” in Hollywood on Friday 25th and will be available for interviews in New Zealand from 4th August.
Pre-save link: https://precise.fm/soberstrangers
IN THE SHALLOWS | NEW ERA. NEW TOUR.
Led by the ethereal voice of Welsh songwriter Danni Davis, the project has evolved from an intimate folk duo to a festival-ready band, after putting 70+ nationwide shows under her belt in just a few years. With a brand new lineup, a fresh album in the works, and their first single “Do You” turning heads, indie-folk-pop band ‘In The Shallows’ is ready to hit the road this winter on their most exciting tour yet.
Led by the ethereal voice of Welsh songwriter Danni Davis, the project has evolved from an intimate folk duo to a festival-ready band, after putting 70+ nationwide shows under her belt in just a few years. With a brand new lineup, a fresh album in the works, and their first single “Do You” turning heads, indie-folk-pop band ‘In The Shallows’ is ready to hit the road this winter on their most exciting tour yet.
After a magical hometown show at St Peter’s Hall, Paekakariki, filmed for a special upcoming concert release. The band are bringing heartfelt harmonies and an evolved, pop-infused sound to venues all across the North Island. Check out 'Not The One' HERE: ... What a performance!
This new tour sees Danni joined by long-time live bassist Shane Hamill and fresh talent Ben Brunskill (Guitar/Vocals), Arna Wnek (Keys/Vocals), and Sam Holdom (Drums), with special guests Michelle Velvin (Harp), Janet Holborrow (Cello) and Shona Juanas (Violin) joining in for the Auckland and Wellington shows.
Expect soaring harmonies, emotionally rich ballads, and a sneak peek at tracks from their upcoming album, dropping late 2025. We know times are tough for many right now, so we’ve teamed up with as many venues as possible to offer a rare chance to see the full band line up for free at selected shows across the North Island… because music should be for everyone!!
Just 2 weeks before they hit the road, they will also be releasing their next Deluxe single from the upcoming tour, ‘Remember Me’, a deeply personal, raw and emotionally-charged reflection on love, betrayal, and the struggle of trying to hold on when everything is slipping away. The edgy pop version and stripped-back acoustic take deliver two sides of the same story, exploring the complexities of a relationship built on half truths and unspoken pain.
In The Shallows - Winter 2025 Tour Dates
13.06 RSC, RAUMATI - FREE SHOW
14.06 SPACE STUDIO, WHANGANUI
27.06 FIREBIRD, LEVIN - FREE SHOW
28.06 COMMON ROOM, HASTINGS
05.07 MEOW, WELLINGTON **With Strings & Harp
11.07 KINGS, OHAKUNE - FREE SHOW
12.07 MOST FM, NEW PLYMOUTH
25.07 ROSEMARYS BAR, TAUPO - FREE SHOW
26.07 THE TUNING FORK, AUCKLAND **With Strings & Harp
07.08 HOKOWHITU BOWLING CLUB, P.N
08.08 PAISLEY STAGE, NAPIER
Danni has been incredibly privileged to have worked and recorded alongside some of Aotearoa's finest musicians, including; Lance Shepherd (Martina Topley Bird ex Tricky, UK), Andrew Bain (Fur Patrol, NZ), Nick Brown (Eb & Sparrow, Vorn, NZ), Michael Barker (John Butler Trio, AU, Tim Finn, NZ, Split Enz, NZ), Ben Brunskill (The BOSS, NZ/AU) TK Paradza (Rhombus, NZ), Bonnie Schwarz (Good Habits, UK), Davey Dubman (Taos Sound, NZ) and Jeremiah Ross, (Module, NZ). Michelle Velvin (Wellington Orchestra, NZSO NZ), Janet & Shona Holborrow (Crimson Club, NZ). Andrew Downes (Fur Patrol, Don McGlashan, Shihad, Louis Baker).
On the bands debut album release tour, they made it onto the 'Top 10 Live shows of 2021' list by Kev Rowland of Muzic.net.nz and the singles that followed received glowing 5* reviews. ‘Let's Not Start a War’ received a 10/10 review from UK's House of Prog , ‘There You Are’ released Dec 21 premiered on ‘The Hits’ with Estelle, received a 5* review from Muzic.net.nz and was placed in their ‘Top 10 Singles of 2021’. Both tracks have been reviewed enthusiastically by many media outlets around the world, including HappyMag AU, BuzzMusic LA and many other international blogs.
More recently, In The Shallows signed with Grant Hislop’s new music company ‘Mood’, an off-shoot of JuiceTV, NZ's & Australia’s only music television channel (Hislop founded The Rock, co-founded Radioworks (now MediaWorks) and was previously head of labels and A&R at Warner Music, label managing Anika Moa, Fur Patrol, Shihad and Weta. He also worked with Goodshirt, Pluto, Opshop, Goldenhorse, Tadpole and Jordan Luck as manager and booking agent.
The band have been working again with Canadian producer Steve Rokosh on their upcoming album (clients include Emmylou Harris, Sass Jordan, Ruben Young, Jocelyn Alice, ABC Family, Electronic Arts and Universal Music.)