22 Sep 2021
Articles By Kerry Monaghan
TOOMS - Single Review: Dead Birds
04 Aug 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
TOOMS is possible the most unique two piece I have recently had the pleasure of reviewing. With a nebulous genre that seems to fit where things aren’t supposed to fit, I like it a lot and so should you.
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Lakius - Single/Video Review: Here We Are Still
05 Jul 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Post-Industrial Metal duo Lakius have another explosive single, this time directly in reference to our country’s marijuana legislation falling short by a 2% margin last year.Here We Are Still is another assault to the senses.
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Swerve City - Single Review: Moving Pictures
23 May 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If the name of Swerve City sounds familiar to you, you’re probably right in thinking that yes, it is in fact borrowed from a Deftones song. You might also recognize some of the line-up of Swerve City that were formally of/currently in bands like Fire at Will, Saints of Taboo and Armed in Advance (or for those that can remember way back, AKA, Stitches) Having just had the pleasure of reviewing Swerve City’s recent third single, Moving Pictures, I can tell listeners are in for a treat, especially if you’re a fan of alternative rock, metal undertones and pop sensibilities.
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East York - Single Review: Damned Anthem
29 Mar 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
East York are back with their third single, Damned Anthem. With two singles firmly under belt, East York continue to go from strength to strength with their creativity and musicality.
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Scorn Of Creation - Album Review: Annihilation Cult
11 Mar 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Following the success of their debut album released in 2018, Scorn of Creation are back with another explosive piece of their unforgettable doom death metal with an edge, Annihilation Cult. With ten tracks full of creativity, guttural screams and intensity there is no mistaking the high energy chaos that descends upon your ears and sends you into oblivion.
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Etheran - EP Review: Doppelganger
26 Jan 2021 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Etheran is a funky metal rock hybrid hailing from Christchurch. Formed in 2016, they officially started touring in 2018 and this is their first EP, released at the beginning of the month.
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Hateseeker - Album Review: Let's Talk About Death
13 Dec 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Formed in 2013 in New Plymouth, Hateseeker is a hybrid punk rock metal outfit with a twist. While they have been described as sounding a bit like Motorhead and The Ramones they are uniquely their own and bring their versions of hard and heavy riffs with a relentless energy.
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East York - Single Review: Outsiders
08 Nov 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Comprised of three Kiwis, Zane Rosanoski (drums) Tarquin Keys (vocals) Daz Coppins (guitar), and a Canadian, Eric Boucher (bass). Formed in Melbourne during pandemic times comes the Rock quartet, East York.
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Tablefox - Single Review: Battles
29 Oct 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Since releasing their debut EP in 2013, Auckland alternative band, Tablefox have gone from strength to strength over the years and continued to broaden their horizons musically. 2020 has been no exception and on the eve of releasing their third album, Desire or Love, they’ve just dropped their fourth single, titled, Battles.
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Lakius - Single Review: This Tension
18 Sep 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Deemed as New Zealand’s 4th best industrial/groove-metal duo, Auckland’s Lakius kept busy during our lockdown periods creating and had recently released another single titled, This Tension. With a stunning video to accompany it, This Tension is an assault of noise that leaves all your senses on alert.
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End of an Empire - Album Review: Within Without
31 Aug 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
End of an Empire is a Wellington four-piece who know a thing or two about creating good music, especially for a band that has just released their debut album. With an experimental thrash, hardcore metal sound, Within Without contains ten tracks that has thought, balance and integrity all rolled into its twenty-five minutes.
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Voodoo Bloo - Single Review: Her Name Was Human
13 Aug 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Voodoo Bloo is the new music project of Rory McDonald. If his name sounds familiar it’ll be because he was the founder (vocals and bass) of now defunct alternative rock/punk Wellington band, Lucifer Gunne.
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Oscar LaDell - Album Review: Gone Away
29 Jul 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Gone Away is the debut album of electric blues up and coming Dunedinite, Oscar LaDell. Despite his twenty one years of age, he’s a second generation bluesman and knows his way around a fretboard or two.
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Bulletbelt - Album Review: Warlords
07 Jul 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Since 2009 Bulletbelt have been annihilating the eardrums of metal heads across New Zealand. In the eleven years since their emergence, they’ve seen and done a lot including international touring, band line-up changes and three solid albums including three EP’s and three singles.
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Dream State Empire - EP Review: Why Fight It
22 Jun 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hailing from our cool little capital, Dream State Empire is a five-piece high energy kind of noise you wish you heard about yesterday. The five Wellingtonians have been kicking about since 2018 and have just released their stunning debut EP, Why Fight It.
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Thousand Limbs - EP Review: Mara
19 Apr 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Thousand Limbs is an Auckland instrumental Metal/Doom quartet that formed in 2016. Very quickly, you’ll find they take you on a journey without ever leaving the house, which is about as good as it gets in these trying times.
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Antebellum - Album Review: Sovereignty
01 Apr 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Antebellum are a three piece, metal infused rock band from Tauranga. This is their debut album, Sovereignty, and it’s clear they have a lot to say for a band with no vocalist (that we know of), but with no shortage of really cool riffs and insane talent.
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Deprivacy - EP Review: N/A (Never Accepted)
10 Mar 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Deprivacy is the one man metal act of musician, Robbie Scott, hailing from Christchurch. If that name doesn’t sound familiar; don’t worry, it soon will be if this EP if anything to go by.
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Gravel Pit - EP Review: Black Arts
25 Feb 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Gravel Pit are a four piece assault of adrenaline, intensity and speed, but if you thought they were just another hardcore punk band, you need to take another listen. They formed in 2018, having released their debut EP the same year and they hail from Wellington which is definitely a great thing.
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The Tacks - Single Review: One Last Goodbye
05 Feb 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hailing from Christchurch and featuring members of local Punk bands Nervous Jerk, Zhukov, Mental Fatal and Blame Thrower is the New Wave/Goth/Post Punk outfit, The Tacks. Having formed in 2019, their sound is a combination of 80's synth with a definitive punk rhythm and a whole lot of goth.
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Radio Coma - Single Review: River Flows
28 Jan 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If you’re a fan of the blues and rock n roll grooves, then you’ve come to the right place. Formed in 2016, Radio Coma is a syndicate of musicians, audio engineers, bands and artists, led by a few core members based in Auckland.
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Domes - Single Review: The Futurist
09 Jan 2020 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The new single from Domes is here. Another slab of brilliance that reaches new heights for the start of 2020.
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Fallstate - EP Review: Disorder and Symmetry
02 Dec 2019 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Well, that didn’t take long. If you haven’t heard a single note of Hardcore, Pop-Punk infused band, Fallstate before, be prepared.
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Domes - Single Review: Malady
19 Nov 2019 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Established as a bold, creative adventure with the goal of creating a record from scratch, from the opposite end of the world and all within one year, is a brave statement, let alone something to follow through with. Radically, it seems to be working if Domes' debut single, Malady is anything to go by.
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The Jordan Luck Band - Gig Review: Jordan Luck Band & Ekko Park @ Cosmopolitan Club, Pukekohe - 4/08/2018
11 Aug 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The last date in The Jordan Luck Band and Ekko Park tour came to a blinding end at Pukekohe’s Cosmopolitan Club. With the average demographic well into the forties and fifties (with a smattering of us in the younger generations) it was a night that rocked, whatever your age was.
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Deathnir - Album Review: Second Sin
09 Jul 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Deathnir (pronounced Death Near) are a four-piece thrash outfit from Hamilton and have recently released their long awaited second release, Second Sin. For anyone familiar with Deathnir's sound, you’d know that their musical influences are everything that is good in the world of metal; Megadeth, Metallica, Judas Priest etc, and while you might be thinking that anyone who tries their hand at thrash metal might just be ripping off said artists, a carbon copy of noise, well your kind of wrong.
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Skinny Hobos - Album Review: Skinny Hobos
30 May 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
After what seems like a decade of waiting in anticipation for the debut album from New Zealand’s favourite Rock duo, the wait is no more! Skinny Hobos have been a common house hold name in the world of Rock in the last few years, and unless you live under a rock, they have quite a solid reputation for working themselves ragged gigging around our fine shores to quench the thirst of bogans, rockers, metal heads, and well, pretty much everyone and everything in between, because if you haven’t yet heard the news, Skinny Hobos really are that good.
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Mild Orange - Album Review: Foreplay
01 May 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If there was one sentence that summed up Mild Orange’s sound and choice of name, it would be this, in their own words: ‘The colour orange can cause one to experience a heightened sense of optimism, a boost in aspiration, and a stimulation of warmth and happiness’ Mild Orange are a self-confessed melting pot of eclectic melodies, energy and vibrancy with smooth sounds. Hailing from Dunedin and formed by early childhood friends, Josh Mehrtens and Josh Reid, they were quickly catapulted into the music scene after only one gig together, which soon lead to a NYE set at Rhythm and Vines during the recording of their debut album, Foreplay, which leads us here.
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Solo Ono - EP Review: Rogue Planet
28 Mar 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Solo Ono are a Wellington two piece (and the occasional three-piece) indulging in some no-frills garage post pop with synth overtones, creating their own sound. Having been six years since their self-titled 2012 debut, Solo Ono have finally broken the drought with a new EP release- Rogue Planet.
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Thomas Oliver - Album Review: Live at the Crystal Palace
21 Mar 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Thomas Oliver has been around for some time, and if you haven’t ever heard of him, where have you been all these years? It’s time you take note and listen.
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How To Human - Single Review: Devil in Your Pocket
06 Mar 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
How to Human are a four-piece rock assault hailing from Wellington, ready to unleash their edgy rock on unsuspecting audiences. Pushing the limits musically and lyrically, Devil in Your Pocket is their debut single, and from the first listen, it’s crisp and exciting.
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Ghost Who Walks - Single Review: Vertigo
28 Feb 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Ghost Who Walks is the brilliance of Wellington born Guitarist, Singer and Songwriter Sam Fowles, backed by his band who play under the moniker, ‘The Ghost’ Ghost Who Walks are straight up funky blues with a host of influences ranging from Jimi Hendrix, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Sublime. Combined with a heavy, tight rhythm section and reggae and rock overtones and you have the perfect blend that moves the mind, soul, and more importantly, the body.
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Happy Hearse - Album Review: Love and Work
22 Feb 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Happy Hearse are back with their new album, Love and Work. If anyone is familiar with their debut album released last year, Mastering the Shakes, you’ll know how unique Happy Hearse’s sound is and the journey that awaits your ears.
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JCK - Album Review: Glass
01 Feb 2018 // review by Kerry Monaghan
JCK or James Castady-Kristament, a name familiar to most, especially here at Muzic.net.
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Intergracia - EP Review: Rise of The Incubus
31 Dec 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Intergracia are a Kapiti/Wellington band, and as some may remember, formally known as Magnum Opus. They deliver powerful melodic metal that you’ll love from the start.
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The Knee High Socks - EP Review: The Knee High Socks
21 Dec 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The Knee High Socks are an Auckland high school quartet that formed in 2015. Their sound is self-confessed indie, ‘math rock’, but not exactly pop, and they have just released their first self-titled EP.
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Gig Review: Paul McCartney @ Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland - 16/12/2017
17 Dec 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Opening with A Hard Day’s Night to thunderous applause and rapture, Paul McCartney didn’t waste any time in appeasing the thirty something thousand crowd that descended upon Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland last night. It was a perfect warm summer’s night with no wind that made for crystal clear acoustics, and a stage that was set up perfectly with two huge live feed screens so everyone, front, side and back got the chance to see Sir McCartney in all his glory.
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Bulletbelt - Album Review: Nine Centuries
05 Dec 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Wellington Metallers Bulletbelt are back and bring with them, their third full length release, Nine Centuries. Bulletbelt are no strangers to the Wellington Metal scene and have been kicking around for years, with a lot of respect within their genre.
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Undercut - EP Review: Take the Wheel
04 Dec 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Undercut are a recently formed Auckland Rock outfit and have just released their debut four-track EP, Take the Wheel - an EP all about taking back control. Straight off the bat, it’s clear Undercut are seasoned musicians with their concise but sharp four tracks that are punchy and riff laden, with pinches of three genres, Rock, Indie and Metal.
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The Hopkinsville Goblins - Album Review: The Hopkinsville Goblins
01 Nov 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The Hopkinsville Goblins are Back! The Wellingtonian's self-titled album is their second intergalactic collaboration of quirky sound effects, samples and lyrical connotations with continued exploration of everything out of the ordinary with that familiar shambolic confusion that is entirely their own.
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Beachware - EP Review: Twin Coast Disc Drive
11 Oct 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Beachware are from Auckland and full of fun with their electric surf pop. Their bubble gum sound is typically Kiwi and has that real beach vibe blended with 80’s synth overtones.
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Happy Hearse - Album Review: Mastering the Shakes
03 Oct 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
It happens, but not as often as I’d like, that I’ll come across a hidden gem that manages to blow my mind, musically and lyrically and leaves me feeling completely satisfied with undulated happiness and excitement. Mastering the Shakes is the 2009 debut from the self- proclaimed grunge phenomenon band, Happy Hearse.
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The Rock 1500 Countdown Party @ Powerstation, Auckland - 15/09/2017
18 Sep 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
One of the biggest nights for Rock fans recently came to an end, and while many celebrated with a well-deserved day off work to start their own festivities early, many more were fortunate to attend the place to be; The Rock’s first ever 1500 countdown party at Powerstation, Mount Eden. The beloved venue, no stranger to a Rock gig or two, was ready and waiting.
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Gig Review: Pukekohe High School Compilation Release Gig @ Pukekohe High School - 06/09/2017
11 Sep 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Little Leviathan are three talented teenagers from Pukekohe High school who are on the road to great things with their brand of foot stomping Heavy Rock. The band is just one of the many talents to come out of Pukekohe High, and part of the school’s music project Mondays Rock, a programme aimed at encouraging and supporting budding musicians and artists in the school.
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New Age Leper - EP Review: The Day The Stranger Came
07 Sep 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
New Age Leper hail from Wellington and are something of a commodity with their eclectic sound of Rock with enough softness, that even small children would enjoy. Expecting the unexpected would sum it up the best.
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Sea Mouse - Album Review: Sea Mouse
01 Sep 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Sea Mouse is the solo project of Wellington Singer/Songwriter, Seamus Johnson. A musician who is no stranger to Wellington’s live music scene with an impressive ten-year track record performing as an artist and with other bands.
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Ammp - EP Review: This Chaotic Symphony
29 Aug 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hailing from Wellington, Ammp is a four-piece, pop-rock, indie outfit full of melody, warmth and eagerly awaiting your listening ears. If you’re familiar with the band’s debut album, From The Back Of The Sun, you’ll recognise the same clear, harmonious vocals from Andrew Masseurs and the effortless musicianship from the rest of the band, Matthew Powell (guitars) Jason Murphy (bass) and Andrew Richardson (drums).
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Aaron Carpenter and The Revelators - Album Review: Pretty Lies
13 Aug 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Bluesy, gritty and honest with plenty of swag best describes Aaron Carpenter and The Revelators’ debut album, Pretty Lies. The quintet hail from Waiheke Island, also known as "wine island", only a ferry ride away from the bright lights of Auckland.
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Gig Review: Hanson @ Town Hall, Auckland - 27/06/17
28 Jun 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Celebrating 25 years of Hanson togetherness, and 20 years since the release of their debut, Middle of Nowhere, the official Middle of Everywhere tour finally reached Auckland, and if you’ve ever been curious to hear what a few thousand (mostly female) screaming Hanson fans sounded like, then Auckland Town Hall was the place to be last night. The Town Hall is a majestic, beautiful heritage building with lavish Edwardian Baroque design and plush interior, there is a sense of something special when you see anything in such a spectacular setting and just added an extra touch of class to an outstanding night.
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No Sky - EP Review: i
05 Jun 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Indie is an interesting genre of music. I think of it like a seeing an experimental piece of art.
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Violet Highway - EP Review: Breathe
25 May 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Auckland band Violet Highway have a new EP, and it’s a punch to the face, in a good way. The 5 track EP, Breathe, is an assault to the senses, making no apologies for its extreme catchiness and superb musicianship.
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Mishap - EP Reivew: Not Feeling This
01 May 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Mishap are back with their second EP, Not Feeling This, and straightaway, I have to say, I really dig this band. It’s my first introduction to these punk power pop trio from Wellington, and they have been kicking around since early last year (2016).
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Checaine - EP Review: Symbols
01 May 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hamilton rock quartet Checaine are back and they're making some noise about it. Their latest slab, Symbols is a follow up EP to their 2014 debut, Turn the Stone and my ears were not disappointed.
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Kenington - Album Review: Going Nowhere (Faster Than You)
27 Mar 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Going Nowhere (Faster Than You) is the debut album from UK born, Auckland based musician, Kenington. A slab of pure honesty and melody is laced throughout the eleven tracks coupled with refined lyrical ability gives this album a soft and quite beautiful feel.
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Devilskin - Devilskin @ Stampede Bar and Grill, Papakura - 16/12/2016
23 Jan 2017 // review by Kerry Monaghan
For the first time, Stampede Bar and Grill in Papakura hosted its first Rock gig. The unlikely establishment, known more for its BBQ style cuisine and Friday night DJ’s, stepped out of the box with a night of difference.
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Tablefox - Single Review: Under A Broken Smile
23 Nov 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
On the eve of their forthcoming EP, Tablefox are back with their new single, Under A Broken Smile. If you’re a fan Tablefox’s sound, you’ll hear another slab of perfectly crafted indie rock, tinged with melody and oozing sweetness.
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Devilskin - Album Review: Be Like The River
02 Nov 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Devilskin are back and sounding more ferocious than before. Be Like The River is their new album, due for nationwide release on 11th November.
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Bakers Eddy - Single Review: Big Man
02 Nov 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Wellington Rockers Bakers Eddy are back with their latest single, Big Man. Their signature sound of rise and fall crescendo’s, crunchy riffs and sing-a-long vocals is what makes Bakers Eddy such a great band to listen to.
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GT42 - GT42 - Album Review: GT42
19 Sep 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
GT42 is a Wellington duo that deliver a hypnotic blend of edgy melodic rock that is flawless and brilliant. GT42 is their self titled debut album and is comprised of fourteen sublime tracks that defines their 80s and 90s crunchy riff laden melodies, with a tinge of pop.
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The Hopkinsville Goblins - Album Review: Posts From Planet Earth
26 Aug 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The Hopkinsville Goblins are a Wellington artist/band representing a mish mash of genres under the guise of Alternative Rock, but in many ways, vary far from that. It’s a little difficult to pinpoint whether the Hopkinsville Goblins are merely a gimmick, or actually serious with this album, Posts From Planet Earth.
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Tricks & Sleeves - Album Review: Locked Out Of Space
26 Aug 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Locked Out Of Space is the debut album from indie rockers, Tricks & Sleeves, showcasing the bands ethereal Pop melodies and infectious hooks. Following on from their self-titled debut EP, Tricks & Sleeves seem to be going from strength to strength, and are a band that I hope are very aware of their talent and future potential.
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Ceolskog - Album Review: Made In My Bedroom 2
19 Aug 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The second coming of Made In My Bedroom 2 from Ceolskog, AKA Adam Helliwell is another superbly crafted slab of Folk Metal, tinged with uniqueness and filled with potential. Following on from its predecessor, Adam has stepped up to the plate and come forth with a more riff laden album.
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Ceolskog - Album Review: Made In My Bedroom
02 Aug 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Ceolskog is the brain child of solo artist Adam Helliwell and Made In My Bedroom, is, as the title suggests, a home made album.I'm always open to listening to genres that not often cross my path and I liked the cross pollination assault that Adam has created.
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Violet Highway - Single/Video Review: Desire
20 Jul 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Violet Highway is an up and coming, infectious Auckland band with some seriously swag sounds and a cool look to boot. In their latest single, Desire, depicting a night in the lift of a lone Taxi driver (or Uber driver!
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Evangel - EP Review: Sea Of The Dead
29 Jun 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If you haven't yet heard of Metalcore four-piece, Evangel, keeping read, you're about to find out. The quartet originally hail from Hamilton and formed in 2007.
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Villainy - Gig Review: Villainy @ Galatos, Auckland - 16/04/2016
29 Apr 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Galatos is an almost hidden secret venue when you consider its location, but I was pleasantly surprised with its vast interior once inside. With great acoustics, it was a great spot to be catching Villainy as part of their Dead Sight tour around the country, along with City of Souls and Decades.
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The Datsuns - Gig Review: The Datsuns @ Kings Arms, Auckand - 1/04/2016
15 Apr 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
It’s not easy getting them all in the same country at the same time, but back for the first time since 2014, Kiwi rock n roll pioneers, The Datsuns still know how to put on a damn good show and fill a crowd. Kicking off the night with support from Bloodbags.
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His Masters Voice - Gig Review: The Forge Of His Masters Downfall @ Kings Arms, Auckland - 5/03/2016
17 Mar 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The warm air and the promise of a great line up set the night for The Forge Of His Masters Downfall at the Kings Arms March 5th. A clever play on words featuring all three bands in the title (can you guess them all?
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Tokyo Rock Machine - EP Review: Batteries Not Included
06 Jan 2016 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Tokyo Rock Machine are a three-piece London-based, Kiwi band with straight up and down good old Rock n Roll. This is their first EP, Batteries Not Included.
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Ctrl Freak - Album Review: In Retrospect
06 Dec 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Originating from Auckland, Ctrl Freak is a self-produced project by musician Richie Bennett. In Retrospect is his first solo album and straight off the bat, it is nothing short of spectacular.
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Tablefox - Album Review: Objects
26 Nov 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
A superbly crafted album that is emotional and powerful. Tablefox are a five-piece rock band skilfully blending elements of indie, folk and pop to create in what I can only describe as a brilliant debut album.
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BigBomBo - EP Review: BigBomBo
26 Nov 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Auckland newcomers, BigBomBo are Rock n Roll titans with a Spanish flair. Their debut five track EP recorded earlier this year is an eclectic medley of great riffs and melody that is infectious, leaving your head bobbing and toes tapping.
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Helgorithms - EP Review: Realisation // Revelation
03 Nov 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Helgorithms is a three piece metal assault on New Zealand’s music scene bringing a unique blend of experimental post metal to life. Their debut EP, Realisation // Revelation was released a few months ago but after discovering there had been no review done for this EP, I jumped at the chance.
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Ekko Park - Album Review: Know Hope
29 Oct 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Nominated for best Rock Album at the 2013 New Zealand Music Awards is an achievement many New Zealand bands hope to have at least once in their career. For Auckland band, Ekko Park, it came a lot sooner than anticipated.
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Sol3 Mio - Album Review: On Another Note
29 Oct 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Sol3 Mio is possibly one of New Zealand’s finest classical music trio at the top of their game. While classical music isn’t my preferred genre I certainly can appreciate the musicianship in it, which is why I decided to take this review on.
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Gig Review: Metalliance - The Paradox Tour 2015 @ Kings Arms, Auckland - 25/10/15
27 Oct 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The future of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Touring and Promotion has launched! Before I had even set eyes upon this much needed event/music promotion, I too had often pondered the hope that something new and exciting in Music Promotion would come in the near future.
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Hunt The Witch - Gig Review: Hunt The Witch @ Backbeat Bar, Auckland 10/10/15
12 Oct 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
For anyone who hasn’t yet ventured into the small but perfectly formed Backbeat Bar on K Road, be sure to go check it out. For a venue that’s very much blink and you’ll miss it, it’s quickly been added to my list of great music venues around Auckland.
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Hunt The Witch - EP Review: Into The Black
08 Oct 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hunt The Witch are an Auckland quartet who unabashedly make great Rock music. For this I thank them.
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Villainy - Album Review: Dead Sight
16 Sep 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Auckland rock monsters Villainy are back with a follow up to 2012’s debut, Mode. Set.
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Stretch to Mould - EP Review: Painting Faces
11 Sep 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Stretch To Mould are no strangers to releasing good rock music. Their debut album Shadows was released in 2012 and packed a solid punch of hard hitting riffs and was laced with melody, but now they’re back again with a bigger sound and if you haven’t heard their music yet, now would be a good time to pay attention.
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Medusa Glare - Single Review: Rock Your World
19 Aug 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hamilton Rock outfit Medusa Glare may still be relatively new on the music scene, but they’re quickly gaining a following. Their second single, Rock Your World is good, insanely good.
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Bakers Eddy - EP Review: Plastic Wasteland
01 Aug 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Bakers Eddy hail from Windy Wellington, and their debut EP has just landed to my awaiting ears. Plastic Wasteland shows the capabilities of a young band who have worked solidly to become a tightly oiled machine with infectious riffs, melodies and flair.
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Sonic Delusion - Album Review: Without Warning
25 Jul 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
New Plymouth based band Sonic Delusion sound a little unexpected as their band name suggests, but upon listening I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to enjoy this album. Without Warning is the band’s not-yet-released third album, and it’s a sensual delight to the ears for anyone who enjoys folk with something a bit different.
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Illuminus - Album Review: Until The End (Remastered)
14 Jul 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Explosive, heavy and fast sums up Auckland trio’s Illuminus and their assault of noise that descends as opening track, The Machine erupts into life. Illuminus have decided to go back and re-master their 2012 debut album, Until The End.
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Illuminus - Album Review: Fading By Degrees
13 Jul 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
When Auckland band Illuminus released their debut, Until The End in 2012, it was their unique sound that received rave reviews by many. This latest offering, Fading By Degrees has the same progressiveness that will keep the fans happy.
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Mucus Kids - EP Review: Mosh 4 Jesus
18 Jun 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Unabashedly crude yet oddly fantastic. Auckland trio Mucus Kids have released their newest EP, Mosh 4 Jesus and it’s a brilliant assault on the eardrums.
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Gatherer - Album Review: Heavy Hail
18 Jun 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Heavy Hail is a delicious album. A sensory overload of everything you want, and the yet undiscovered.
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Cheshire Grimm - EP Review: Cheshire Grimm
06 Jun 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Hamilton/Melbourne trio Cheshire Grimm are ones to watch with the flurry of attention surrounding their debut self titled EP that was released a few months ago. A wicked blend of genres can be heard from rock, pop and metal.
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The Diamond Dead - Single Review: Dumb
19 Jan 2015 // review by Kerry Monaghan
2015 is the start of great music already, and what better way to kick start summer than with a new single from Hawkes Bay’s finest rock-metallers, Diamond Doll. In 2013, this female fronted band released their debut EP, Plus None, a hard hitting assault of heavy noise and the perfect blend of melodic heaviness.
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Armed In Advance - Interview: Stitches
27 Dec 2014 // interview by Kerry Monaghan
Stitches are performing at the Music is Dead launch party on 17 January 2015 alongside Fire At Will, Static Era and Dead End Boys. Kerry interviewed Hugh (bass) about their 2014 EP Harder Times and their plans for the future.
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Shihad - Newsletter Interview: Shihad
25 Nov 2014 // interview by Kerry Monaghan
Shihad recorded their first album Churn almost 21 years ago and ever since then, they have proven time and time again that they are one of New Zealand's leading Rock bands. They describe their new album FVEY as "total brutality from start to finish".
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Black River Drive - Quicksand Album Review
31 Oct 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Quicksand is Kiwi rockers Black River Drive’s most recent release. It’s a decent hit of hard driven riffs, melody and everything that made you like them in the first place.
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Dragonstone - Dragonstone EP Review
21 Oct 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Dragonstone is a two piece Wellington duo, exploding with potential in the most primitive way. The three tracked self titled EP doesn’t give enough away.
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The Datsuns - Bad Taste Single Review
25 Sep 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The first single to be lifted from Kiwi favourites, The Datsuns' sixth album, Deep Sleep, is sure to please. With a hilarious and really well done Claymation video (with the band all looking like they have dreadlocks) the single, Bad Taste is a foot stomper of a tune with classic Dolf De Borst trademark throaty vocals and booming riffs.
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Devilskin - We Rise Album Review
06 Sep 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The long awaited debut from Kiwi rock metallers, Devilskin in all its glory. Finally!
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This Flight Tonight - Never After Video/Single Review
29 Aug 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
A beautifully simplistic song and video clip sums up this delicate gem by artist, Ralph Warren Engle. The video depicts the acoustic guitar playing Engle inside a home, intercut with segments of a happy, smiling woman, who often looks contemplative.
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Parents - Low Life Album Review
25 Aug 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Gritty, dark and raw best sums up Auckland quartet Parents. Ravaging your ears with full force noise obliteration with opening track Change, Parents are no strangers to a Black Flag/Burzum medley of assault.
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Nick Ferretti - Never Leave Your Lover Alone Album Review
20 Jul 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The name may not be familiar to some, but his voice will be. Listening to Nick Ferretti, you stop, whatever it is you’re doing and just listen.
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The Flaming Mudcats - Mistress Album Review
18 Mar 2014 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The Flaming Mudcats return with another brilliant slab of their eclectic roots infused tunes, full of toe tapping, good soul feeling stuff. Craig Bracken’s jazzy vocals ring true and clear on their second offering, that makes you turn the volume up that little bit louder.
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Five Mile Town - Other Ghosts EP Review
29 Nov 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Bittersweet expectations - two words that spring to mind on the first listen of Auckland quartet, Five Mile Town. A strong vibe of Mumford and Sons blends effortlessly with some heavy rock overtones on stand out on fourth track- Cigar and a 78, a stellar song that shows the bands true mark, and by far my favourite.
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Rose and The Wooden Hearts - Digging Holes Album Review
09 Oct 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Simple and charming; just a few choice words to sum up the overall vibe, of indie folk rockers, Rose and the Wooden Hearts. A refreshing change from the more male dominated role in Indie; female vocalist, Rose Fischer, bringing a sweet melody that gives the rest of the Wooden Hearts a light, feminine feel.
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Needless Cane - The Sun Did Not Shine EP Review
23 Jul 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Alternative metal in Wellington is not a dying scene; in fact, it’s very much alive when you have local act, Needless Cane and the release of their latest offering, The Sun Did Not Rise. This seven track EP brings that heavy, yet melodic sound that conjures up instant dark imagery and blackness, before swiftly bringing a strong industrial sound that finishes off the last three tracks.
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Jesse Sheehan - How The Light Gets In EP
29 Jun 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Still relativity new in Wellington’s music scene, Jesse Sheehan is fast shedding some light as to why he’s about to become the next big thing in the Capital’s indie scene. This young talent is creating a stir in the indie folk world, just having released his second EP; How The Light Gets In.
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The Diamond Dead - Plus None EP Review
03 Jun 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
EP’s are perfect for the reason that they leave you wanting more as soon as the last track finishes, but you’re left with the feeling that it wasn’t long enough to placate your ears. If you have never experienced that feeling, you will with Hawkes Bay foursome, Diamond Doll band.
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Newtown Rocksteady - Goin' Steady Album Review
21 May 2013 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Rewind a month or two back and you’ll feel like its summer all over again, with the new offering from Wellington favourite, Newtown Rocksteady and their second EP release Goin’ Steady. Putting forth some sweet soulful mixes, you can hear the smooth blend that makes these Newtown locals a big name for some of NZ’s finest reggae roots and grooves.
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Melic - Nowhere I'd Rather Be EP Review
19 May 2012 // review by Kerry Monaghan
It’s easy to see why London based Kiwi rockers, Melic have opted 'Nowhere I’d Rather Be' for their first single off their upcoming third EP, also named 'Nowhere I’d Rather Be'. The first thing that catches your attention is the simple but infectious soft hook, laden with melody, that gives way to some catchy strong vocals, from vocalist and guitarist, Mark Hitchcock.
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The Johnny Possum Band - Short Summer Album Review
05 Mar 2012 // review by Kerry Monaghan
A beautiful arrangement featuring mandolins and violins makes The Johnny Possum band stand out in their eclectic mix genre of folk pop rock, with a lots of melody and feel good vibes. Short Summer is the band’s fifth album to date, comprising of vocalist, Bryan Peters, Margaret Pickering, Sean Whitaker, Keith Taylor and Jonathan Rosanowski.
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Burning Embers - Open Road Demo EP Review
05 Mar 2012 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If the sound of heavy drums, crunchy riffs and melody catches your ear, then look no further than Wainuiomata rockers, Burning Embers. Despite being unsigned, the seasoned musicians have been around for a good three to four years, gigging almost anywhere they can and rocking out audiences with their mix of heavy rock, tinged with toe tapping melody and lots of impressive solo’s that would give Slash a run for his money.
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Geoff Ong - Pictures EP Review
14 Dec 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
If you haven’t yet heard of up and coming talent, Geoff Ong, you will soon, with the release of his first EP, Pictures, making quite a name for himself in pop. Pictures, is a great mix of pop soft rock melody, just in time for summer and those long hot days, giving listeners just a glimpse of what Geoff Ong is capable of musicially as an artist.
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The Flaming Mudcats - Gave You What You Wanted Album Review
03 Dec 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Otis Redding, Leadbelly, Muddy Waters, just some of the late greats of 1950’s American Blues. Fast forward to New Zealand 2011, and The Flaming Mudcats could soon be amongst them.
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The Bats - Free All The Monsters Album Review
08 Nov 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
The first thing I notice when popping in The Bats new release, Free All The Monsters, is the distinct ‘Dunedin sound’ to which The Bats have been a part of, in their impressive thirty year career to date. Less is more with jingly guitars and loose drumming, summing up the Dunedin Sound perfectly.
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Bond Street Bridge - Spring Summer Awesome Winter Album Review
16 Oct 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
As a self confessed novice to some styles of the Indie genre, I wasn’t sure what to expect when popping in Bond Street Bridge’s second effort; Spring Summer Awesome Winter, but I was pleasantly surprised at the unique melody and softness of opening track ‘Aimless’ with its Mark Lanegan-esque style vocals that is suited to the blues/indie folk genre; one man band wonder, Sam Prebble is the man with the voice, string arrangements, mandolin and guitars behind Spring Summer... his follow up album to 2008’s The Mapmakers’ Art.
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Kerretta - Saansilo Album Review
01 Oct 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Experimental rock from Auckland, Kerretta, has been making quite a scene overseas lately with their powerful live shows and heavy instrumental sound. Anyone familiar with their debut album, 'Vilayer', released in 2009 will be reminded of the potential that inevitably has followed in the shape of their second album, 'Saansilo', released September 18.
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Acoustic Gig @ Bar Medusa, 18 August 2011
04 Sep 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
A freezing cold and windy Thursday night did little to deter the crowd from a hearty acoustic set courtesy of NZ Live Entertainment at Medusa. A last minute change of plan saw Darrel Vickers, vocalist for bands; Funkacybin and Smashed Potatoes (the latter originally scheduled to play) bash out a beautiful acoustic set of originals with awe and depth.
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The Adventures Of Mikejoffa - Eventures EP review
26 Jul 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Upon seeing Adventures of Mikejoffa at their Eventures EP launch gig at Medusa back in May, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect before they took to the stage, as I only had heard snippets of a song or two. An hour and a half later I was grinning from ear to ear at what I had just heard, so I was excited to finally get my hands on their EP.
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Kyuss Lives! @ Hunter Lounge, Wellington - Sunday May 15 2011
25 May 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Stoner rock, desert rock, acid rock; doesn't matter what you call it, there's no mistaking the sound of Kyuss when they hit the Hunter Lounge in Wellington, Sunday Night. The Hunter Lounge is a venue I'm not familiar with, located within Victoria University grounds, it boasts its own cafe and bar; a pretty classy place during the day, come nightfall and it transforms into the perfect venue for gigs, comedy nights and other events.
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The Adventures Of Mikejoffa - Eventures EP Release Gig @ Bar Medusa, Wellington on 6 May 2011
25 May 2011 // review by Kerry Monaghan
Making my way to Medusa bar on a freezing Friday night, I arrived with the happy notion of discounted drinks and my long awaited copy of Adventures Of Mikejoffa’s EP, Eventures, thanks to Doug ten Broeke. Familiar to Medusa’s small but perfectly formed size, I was a little taken back at the vacant space I could see all around me, wondering when or if it was going to start filling out by the time metal titans Red Dawn took to the stage.
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