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Ishtar are an Auckland-based hard rock group. Long known as one of Auckland's best live acts, they have a huge, dark, hook-filled sound that balances melodicism with big riffs and draws on an extensive musical palette. Drawing comparisons to 70s Stadium rockers Queen, Led Zeppelin and Van Halen, Gothic female-lead rockers Evanescence and Nightwish and progressive acts such as Dream Theater, Rush and Faith No More, Ishtar are one of Aucklands most diverse and technically proficient acts.
Originally formed in 2000, the band cut several demos early on, a number of the early songs getting airplay on The Axe Attack and bFM. They wrote an indie film soundtrack and played a new years gig to several thousand people at Aotea square before splitting late in 2002. Ishtar reformed 2003 when guitarist Simon Whitlow put together a whole new line-up including drummer Dave Cannon. Mel Wright came in 2004 on vocals as did bassist Jamie Denton, first to fill-in in late 04 then permanently in 2006.
Playing regularly at several Auckland venues Ishtar built a reputation as a kick arse live act. They also found time to record. In Dec 2004 Ishtar recorded 'The Enemy Within' at Studio 203 with Andrew Buckton. A heavy rocking number with revolving two handed tapping motif and killer bassline their debut release showcased an accessible yet chops heavy approach. They also recorded the stripped back acoustic ballad 'Plea' with just Simon on guitars and Mel on vocals. In 05 'The Enemy Within' was included on 'Reconstruction', a NZ unsigned artists Tsunami charity CD. 'The Enemy Within' got airplay on The Axe Attack and both tracks were playlisted on Valdus Radio.
2006 has seen Ishtar build on their reputation for putting on great live shows and seen them complete work on their debut EP, 'South of Sanity', an eclectic, hard rocking set, 4 songs recorded by the Rock Factory engineers Michelle Klaessens and Mark Rawston and the remainder taken from the Studio 203 sessions.
Buy Their music at Amplifier and check out the band's Myspace.
Band Members:
Mel Wright (vocals)
Simon Whitlow (guitar)
Dave Cannon (drums)
Jamie Denton (bass)
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