15 Jan 2025
Reviews
Vox Capacitor - Album Review: Thirds
08 Jan 2025 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Thirds is the latest release from Auckland-based Vox Capacitor, "a one man jangly dad rock and indie guitar pop explosion", and is his first full-length album, having previously released two EPs.The first track is Imperfect Storm, which kicks off with a medium-paced beat, a solid rhythm section under tastefully driven guitars, both the melodic lead and the rhythm.
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Andy Bassett - EP Review: Surface Noise
07 Jan 2025 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Andy Bassett has just released a new EP, Surface Noise. Originally from the UK, he has been living in the Taranaki area since the late '80s, performing with various bands, covers and originals.
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Craig Payne - Album Review: Born Again
05 Jan 2025 // A review by Michael Durand
If you listen to the Blindboy Podcast or follow any other media by creative or neurodivergent people, you’ll know that most people hold back on creating anything because of their fear of failure, fear of judgement from others, or a fear of being defined by what they have produced rather than by who they are. (The first step is to simply get over ourselves and begin, knowing that we will certainly fail but that the only way to succeed is to start and stick with it.
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Jenni Smith - EP Review: Nightfall
05 Jan 2025 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Nightfall is the debut EP from Auckland-based Jenni Smith, and smacks of a relative unknown on the cusp of something much bigger. The four songs were written about "things that keep me awake at night", and all have their roots in the emotions surrounding relationships, whether romantic or otherwise.
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Dillastrate - Album Review: Nga Pounamu
03 Jan 2025 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Renowned Otautahi duo Dillastrate have raised the bar with their second album, Nga Pounamu, an inspired blend of cultural identity, heartfelt themes, and musical innovation. Building on their reputation as "musical weapons," Henare Kaa and Tim Driver have crafted a record that transcends genres while staying true to their Kaupapa of amplifying Te Reo Maori through music.
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The KaRs - Album Review: Home For The Holidays
27 Dec 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
With Home For The Holidays, The KaRs (The Kane and Regan show) have created a holiday album with a brilliant mix of English, Te Reo, and sometimes other languages. With 18 tracks it is long but you don’t notice as you get lost in the tracks.
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Mt Eden - EP Review: Venom
24 Dec 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Anyone who knows anything about Aotearoa electronic music will be very familiar with the name Jesse Cooper. Or as he’s better known, Mt Eden - Formerly Mt Eden Dubstep.
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Narcotic Tonsils - Album Review: You'll Get What You're Given
18 Dec 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Now, I'm just going to get this out of the way right at the start: I know these guys, their guitarist Troy is a really good mate of mine, and I used to share a house with their frontman/bassist Andy - in fact, when he first started talking about a new band he wanted to put together, back in 2019. Two years later, Narcotic Tonsils erupted into being, and swiftly became my favourite Christchurch band (apart from the ones I'm in myself, obviously).
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AvonRose - EP Review: Gruno
18 Dec 2024 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Gruno is the new 9-track EP by AvonRose, and it's nothing short of a heavy music masterpiece. I stumbled upon this band while hunting for a dark, doom metal vibe, and boy, did they deliver!
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Zuke - Album Review: Come Closer
16 Dec 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Ed Zuccollo, stage name Zuke, is a renowned producer and master of synthesisers based in Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. He’s also known for his work with the likes of Trinity Roots, is also a member of KITA, and has made marks in his solo DJing career, performing at festivals such as Northern Bass, Splore, KiwiBurn, AUM and loads more.
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Damien Binder - EP Review: Heartful
16 Dec 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Damien Binder is now well into his fourth decade of releasing music, and his third as a solo artist. He has an impressive back catalogue to show for it, and his latest EP Heartful sits admirably alongside his previous releases.
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Gig Review: Otautahi Smoke BBQ Fest @ Hagley Park, Christchurch - 14/12/2024
16 Dec 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I had a fair amount of trepidation about heading along to Otautahi Smoke BBQ Festival, the temperature was forecast to be 31 degrees, and I'm one of those folk who, as Billy Connolly so eloquently put it, is "so white, I'm pale blue". Luckily, I found a nice shady spot with a great view of the stage, and easy access to the free water station, and with a nice cool breeze blowing through, I didn't have to worry about burning to a crisp.
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16 Dec 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I had a fair amount of trepidation about heading along to Otautahi Smoke BBQ Festival, the temperature was forecast to be 31 degrees, and I'm one of those folk who, as Billy Connolly so eloquently put it, is "so white, I'm pale blue". Luckily, I found a nice shady spot with a great view of the stage, and easy access to the free water station, and with a nice cool breeze blowing through, I didn't have to worry about burning to a crisp.
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The Phoenix Foundation - Gig Review: The Phoenix Foundation @ Meow Nui, Wellington - 14/12/2024
15 Dec 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Te Whanganui a Tara’s favourite sons, The Phoenix Foundation broke the mould many times over to create their own unique templates that elevate the average pop song into something really special. For decades they’ve been making beautiful, lush, twee-pop with layers of inventive cleverness.
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AJA - Album Review: Kawai
13 Dec 2024 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Bilingual albums shouldn’t be special; they should be the norm. Or at least more common.
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Alba Rose - EP Review: First Light
12 Dec 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Kiwi soul pop creative Alba Rose has dropped her first international release after relocating to Berlin, the new EP First Light. Gaining popularity as the frontwoman of Corduroy before taking off on her solo endeavours, Rose has increasingly found success on the NZ charts and festival circuit.
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Wiri Donna - Gig Review: Wiri Donna @ San Fran, Wellington - 6/12/2024
08 Dec 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
I’ve been following Bianca Bailey’s (AKA Wiri Donna) career for some time now and her music has gone from strength to strength. Bold, melodic, indie pop with a distinctive flavour and a unique, recognisable sound, she’s managed to carve out her own niche on student and independent radio with a brilliant EP (Being Alone 2022) and a raft of great singles.
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Rachel Louise - EP Review: Wasted/Our Time
05 Dec 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
You’ve got to admire Tamaki Makaurau independent pop artist Rachel Louise (aka Rachel Mawdsley). Not only does she write and perform her own material but she’s on the publicity machine cranking out releases and flying the flag for her unique and beautiful music, too.
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Oakley Grenell - Album Review: Echoes
04 Dec 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Offspring of one of Aotearoa’s most famous songs, John Hore Grenell, and brother of Country/Folk artist Amiria Grenell, Oakley cut his teeth down in Otautahi over a decade ago under the tutelage of Jazz greats like Mike Nock. I first got to meet him back in 2008 as he was preparing to fly the ditch following the release of his lounge/funk mix-up called Moving On.
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Wet Denim - Gig Review: Wet Denim @ San Fran, Wellington - 29/11/2024
30 Nov 2024 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Everyone should devote a moment to Wet Denim. On Friday the 29th at San Fran, I embarked on the enraptured journey of hearing Wet Denim's sophomore EP On The Line live.
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Lavender - EP Review: Types Of Infatuation
29 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Types Of Infatuation is the name and the theme of the debut EP from Tamaki Makaurau based Lavender, who has been songwriting and performing from a young age, and whose style has developed into a well-crafted blend of indie folk-pop and alt-rock. Lavender has performed at many high profile events over the past few years, and if this EP is anything to go by, looks well set to go on too much bigger things again.
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Dylan Kay - EP Review: (I Could) Watch You Forever
29 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Dylan Kay is a seasoned player, having begun 35 years ago, and having been teaching for the last 25 of them, including setting up what is now Auckland's biggest guitar school, in 2012. Originally from the U.
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Search For Yeti - Album Review: Dark So Soon
28 Nov 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Search for Yeti’s first full length album Dark So Soon offers a rich banquet of genres and melodies. The record oscillates between predicting a future filled with either dread or hope, while the band either softly establishes a tender ambience or plays catchy power pop.
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The Gemini Effect - Album Review: Hotwire Babylon
28 Nov 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Hailing from Auckland’s North Shore, The Gemini Effect is a trio that brings a fresh, unapologetic energy to alternative rock. Fronted by Rob Sharp on guitar and vocals, with John Blackburn on bass and Ben Farrant on drums, the band blends influences as diverse as grunge, psychedelic rock, dub, and garage.
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Star Chart - EP Review: White Girl Whining
26 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
White Girl Whining is the sophomore EP from Tamaki Makaurau-based Star Chart, a project created and fronted by Chrissie Hart, multi-talented multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire. After an impressive career of touring the world playing on cruise ships, in hotels, and as a session musician, she returned to her hometown to finally start recording some original music that she'd been quietly working on since high school.
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Wiri Donna - Gig Review: Wiri Donna @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 21/11/2024
26 Nov 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Poneke’s Wiri Donna brought the rock to Ahuriri’s Paisley Stage, and as criminally undersized as the crowd may have been, I’m sure a few of them came away with a greater appreciation of the talents of this crew!Similarly, support act First Reserve made a number of new fans, particularly in the form of JR and Lucy, our hosts at Paisley - JR saying that he wanted to get them back as soon as possible.
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Oceanspace - EP Review: Oceanspace
26 Nov 2024 // A review by Daniel OBrien
The word psychedelic can often be overused to the point it becomes so watered down it means little more than "that's kinda buzzy", but its history in music is revolutionary and foundational. What Oceanspace has managed to capture in their self-titled EP, is not just the musical qualities of a style of music, but the inner ethos of an artistic movement.
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Jacob Blair Tait - EP Review: Our Great Nation
24 Nov 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
You wouldn't be able to guess what sort of music you’re in for just by looking at the cover artwork. Hues of aquamarine and purple dominate, and in the centre, an artistic rendering of a million marching soldiers bearing flags, albeit created using AI.
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Curlys Jewels - Gig Review: Curlys Jewels @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 22/11/2024
24 Nov 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
It’s not often you go to a rock show and most of the venue is made up of comfy eclectic couches, but the Paisley Stage is just that. Hoping to get people off the couches and warmed up for Curlys Jewels are Palmy band Bad Schematics and they have an extra long set prepared.
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CAITLIN - EP Review: Legacy
22 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Legacy is the latest in an impressive list of releases from Otautahi-based CAITLIN, an EP comprised of her last three singles and one previously unreleased track, Attention. The four songs presented here amply demonstrate her growth and maturing as an artist and songwriter, as she examines the emotions involved in some deeply personal experiences, at times laying herself bare with rawness and honesty.
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Missrosevalentina - Album Review: The Fuchsia Is Rose
22 Nov 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
While the Northern Hemisphere has come off a summer full of dance and club pop, New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere is defrosting into its own vibrant summer, a vibrant future which Missrosevalentina raves about in full force with her new electro-pop album The Fuchsia Is Rose. This album comes off the release of four singles Bouquet, Expensiveeee, I Wanna Go to London, and Crush, all of which feature on the album.
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Wendyhouse - Album Review: Puddlekopf
21 Nov 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
I received Wendyhouse’s album in the post, a homage to the old style of reviewing a record. A CD, with hand-drawn art works reminiscent of Radiohead's Kid A era, and the lyrics of poetry to accompany.
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Meff Zexx - EP Review: Tahi
19 Nov 2024 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Meff Zexx is an experimental duo from Wellington that melds minimalism, post-rock, ambient, black metal, and stoner rock into their own sound. They recently performed at Valhalla this past October and have released a new two-track EP titled Tahi.
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Patients - Album Review: Homemade Pills
19 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Homemade Pills is a new album by Patients, one of the projects of Christchurch's Aeneas Jones. As well as fronting heavy rockers PhatSak and performing with Chickenyard and When I Was Sexy, Aeneas drew together the collective Patients to play and record this latest effort.
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19 Nov 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Homemade Pills is a new album by Patients, one of the projects of Christchurch's Aeneas Jones. As well as fronting heavy rockers PhatSak and performing with Chickenyard and When I Was Sexy, Aeneas drew together the collective Patients to play and record this latest effort.
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Tom Irvine Band - Album Review: Under The Wharf
19 Nov 2024 // A review by Trevor Faville
Tom Irvine has a very healthy CV, working guitar duties with the likes of Hopetoun Brown, The Mercenaries and the Fleetwoods. For this album, his first, he has assembled a tight and cohesive ensemble with a rhythm section of Neill McCulloch (drums), Matt Shanks (bass).
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Lee Martin - Album Review: Dreamers Dawn
17 Nov 2024 // A review by Hannah Jane
Christchurch-based singer-songwriter Lee Martin has released her third studio album Dreamers Dawn – a dozen original songs crafted while dealing with personal challenges Lee faced during a time of transformation. The highs and lows are evident to the listener throughout the album, which includes highly personal lyric layered in a bed of genres from Indie Folk to Americana.
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Sam Fowles - Album Review: After Dark
14 Nov 2024 // A review by Hope Milo
With After Dark, Sam Fowles establishes himself as a master of soundscapes, digital sonics, production and storytelling. Intro instantly transports you to a fantastical planet with atmospheric ambience, laser guns, vintage drums and more.
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DarkWater - Album Review: Turning Point
13 Nov 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Turning Point is a complex, dynamic album that takes the listener on an intense ride. There are mysterious, fragile, powerful and gritty moments to discover on this ten-track offering that sounds both balanced and refined.
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Epakist - EP Review: Epakist
13 Nov 2024 // A review by Liam Davis
From the mean West Auckland streets comes the eponymously titled release from Epakist. Immediately; notes of Tool and Audioslave-esque inspired vocal prowess and bouncy guitar riffs explode to the forefront.
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Rita Mae - EP Review: Kiss The Sky
13 Nov 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
They say that your whakapapa defines you. That can be a good thing or a weighty stone around your creative neck.
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Sally Stockwell - Album Review: Little Triggers
12 Nov 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
In the new video Far & Wide (one of three planned for release) Otautahi-based artist Sally Stockwell bursts through the front door, rushes down the driveway and doesn’t stop running until she reaches the sea. The camera pans back to her two cherub angels deliberately spilling milk on the kitchen floor and jumping about on the best couches.
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Jon Toogood - Gig Review: Jon Toogood @ Double Whammy, Auckland - 8/11/2024
10 Nov 2024 // A review by pthornton08
I’m standing at the back of the dimly lit Double Whammy bar, and I’m fighting back the tears. It’s a poetic moment.
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Jan Hellriegel - Gig Review: Jan Hellriegel @ Nivara Lounge, Hamilton - 08/11/2024
10 Nov 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
As I entered the basement venue, Jan Hellriegel was amongst the audience members, chatting with each of them before the opener. Unexpected behaviour from the main act (based on my experience of going to gigs), but it was an indicator of her genuine and personable nature that we'd come to know over the next few hours.
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Crowded House - Gig Review: Crowded House @ TSB Arena, Wellilngton - 09/11/2024
10 Nov 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
A few years ago, when I heard that Crowded House had reformed and was embarking on a nationwide tour of the motherland, I jumped for joy. The band that crafted some of the catchiest songs to grace the airwaves and further spark a rivalry of ownership between Aotearoa and Australia like a political pavlova was back.
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The Nomad - Album Review: Infinite III
08 Nov 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
There was a time when Daimon Schwalger, AKA The Nomad, was on every airwave, headlining every essential EDM event. His sets at seminal gigs like The Gathering were legendary.
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Marmalade - EP Review: Sober
08 Nov 2024 // A review by Hope Milo
Marmalade’s Sober EP is a sun-soaked, genre-blending joyride full of hits waiting to be added to your new summer soundtrack. Right from its simmering drum intro, Bright sets the tone, making it clear this EP is going to be on repeat all summer.
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Michael McIlvride - EP Review: Departure
07 Nov 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
Departure is a 4 track instrumental metal EP that captures the multifaceted experience of a journey—both outward and inward. Auckland based guitarist, Michael McIlvride, has created a narrative that’s sonically diverse, combining elements of progressive metal, post-metal, and thrash with moments of atmospheric reflection and guitar prowess.
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Adam Hattaway & The Haunters - Album Review: High Horse
07 Nov 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Marking their sixth album in six years, High Horse is the latest impressive release from Christchurch powerhouses Adam Hattaway and the Haunters. Unlike the boisterous rock and roll ventures which precede it, High Horse is an intimate, eerie project made with a small group of collaborators.
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Jon Toogood - Album Review: Last Of The Lonely Gods
06 Nov 2024 // A review by Daniel OBrien
Ten years ago I saw Jon Toogood perform a solo acoustic rendition of some classic Shihad songs to an absolutely packed Hunter Lounge in Wellington. He casually walked out onto the stage with his acoustic guitar, sat down, and proceeded to smash out what is one of the most explosive and commanding performances I have ever seen.
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Salmonella Dub - Album Review: For All Things Alive
05 Nov 2024 // A review by Daniel OBrien
In the late 90's and early 2000's, Reggae and Dub formed the heart of the NZ music scene, with bands like Rhombus, Fat Freddy's Drop and Salmonella Dub (among many others) pumping out so much high quality original music that the Roots sound became synonymous with the idea of NZ music.But nothing lasts forever, and despite a few notable exceptions (Kora and TOI for example) the scene slowly homogenised into a cloying mix of chart-baiting BBQ reggae pop nonsense and vapid club hungry dance tracks.
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Gig Review: Dia De Los Muertos @ Underworld Tavern, Wellington - 02/11/2024
04 Nov 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
I walk into the Underworld Tavern and immediately see people with sugar skull makeup on and the stage set up with Day of the Dead decorations of skulls and flowers. Dia De Los Muertos is being celebrated tonight by Electric Tapestry, Ben McHardy (and band) and Voodoo Bloo.
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04 Nov 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
I walk into the Underworld Tavern and immediately see people with sugar skull makeup on and the stage set up with Day of the Dead decorations of skulls and flowers. Dia De Los Muertos is being celebrated tonight by Electric Tapestry, Ben McHardy (and band) and Voodoo Bloo.
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Drax Project - Gig Review: Drax Project @ Hunter Lounge, Wellington - 2/11/2024
03 Nov 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Local lads Drax Project have moved far away from their impromptu busking gigs on Courtenay Place, having just wrapped a near sell out headline tour across Blighty, Europe and Aotearoa in support of their super cool sophomore effort Upside (2023). And most recently, they’ve been stomping around the motu revving up local crowds, and a few Aussies stages, to much acclaim.
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Turkey The Bird - Album Review: Men, Fish, Boat
31 Oct 2024 // A review by Chris Chick
Turkey The Bird is the greatest thing to come out of Taranaki since the Jurassic age, if not, at least since the great name of theSlacks who would have thought two magnificent specimens could co-exist in such hostile conditions. But this is about Turkey The Bird and their third album Men, Fish, Boat.
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Pool House - EP Review: Sandflies
31 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Otautahi’s Pool House make an early bid for the soundtrack to this summer, with their EP Sandflies. Coming on sounding fully formed, it’s clear that they’ve done the mahi to get to where they are, and this EP promises great things.
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Springloader - Album Review: Just Like Yesterday
31 Oct 2024 // A review by pthornton08
They say good things take time. Springloader finally announce their arrival with a quality debut album.
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Appertain - EP Review: Sideways
29 Oct 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Auckland based Appertain consists of Adam Strang and David Hector, and between the two of them, they conjure up a nice big fat rock sound, "with powerful riffs and soulful lyrics". October 10th saw the release of their debut EP, Sideways, and I had the pleasure of reviewing it.
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SD-2100 - Album Review: Not Bred to Feel the Fat
29 Oct 2024 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Sam Densem, better known as SD-2100 (a brand of metal detector but that's not what he's named after), is aggressively prolific. By the time this review is published he's already released two more EP's and a compilation.
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Gig Review: Dougfest 2 - Night 2 @ Last Place, Hamilton - 26/10/2024
28 Oct 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
DougFest is back. Bigger, bolder, and heftier than the first.
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28 Oct 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
DougFest is back. Bigger, bolder, and heftier than the first.
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Gig Review: Dougfest 2 - Night 1 @ Last Place, Hamilton - 25/10/2024
26 Oct 2024 // A review by Chris Gudsell
WTFIADF? After the sellout inaugural event in 2023, Dougfest returned to Hamilton’s Last Place and being only a few door sales away from being sold out, everyone in attendance was in for a treat.
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26 Oct 2024 // A review by Chris Gudsell
WTFIADF? After the sellout inaugural event in 2023, Dougfest returned to Hamilton’s Last Place and being only a few door sales away from being sold out, everyone in attendance was in for a treat.
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Louis Baker - Gig Review: Small Hall Sessions w/ Louis Baker @ Tikokino Hall - 24/10/2024
26 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Making his debut in the Small Halls milieu, Louis Baker entranced the audience at Tikokino hall with an intensely soulful performance, setting a perfect tone for Te-Matau-a-Maui’s extra-long weekend. With a paradoxical combination of strength and fragility, his performance drew them in, kept them engaged, and gave them many tales to tell to those who weren’t there.
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Tess Liautaud - Album Review: Blue Mind
25 Oct 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
As the modern musical generation dive headfirst into digital production, home studios and the art of the solo performance, it’s hard to remember the days of the traditional, all-out band jam session. But Tess Liautaud’s beautiful sophomore record Blue Mind proves that lifestyle is alive and well in Otautahi.
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Wiri Donna - EP Review: In My Chambers
25 Oct 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Certified rock music incoming as Wiri Donna releases her sophomore EP In My Chambers today, Friday 25 October 2024, following the smashing success of her debut, Being Alone (2022). This time around, Wiri Donna firmly plants herself in rock territory with a bold, unapologetic sound, one driven by a blend of feminine rage, heavy guitar riffs, and searing vocals.
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Kerretta - Album Review: Angelm
24 Oct 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Auckland's instrumental rock trio, Kerretta, is back, and let me tell you, it couldn’t come at a better time. Angelm, their first album since 2018's Exiscens, which was a collection of outtakes and unreleased tracks.
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Danica Bryant - Gig Review: Danica Bryant @ Valhalla, Wellington - 23/10/2024
24 Oct 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
A Halloween themed gig with dress-up encouraged and the chance to be in a music video? It was a no-brainer that I attended Danica Bryant’s Halloween themed Acid single release show at Valhalla!
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Fat Freddy's Drop - Album Review: Slo Mo
24 Oct 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
Following on from the 2024 UK/Europe performances of their Slo Moalbum tour, Fat Freddy's Drop will be back in New Zealand for 6 upcoming shows across the country. Joined by fellow Kiwi artists TOI (Tunes Of I), Coterie, Rubi Du and DJ Logg Cabin, as well as AJ Honeysuckle, Rehekorero and Australian duo The Teskey Brothers for the Auckland and Upper Hutt shows.
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Gig Review: Louisa Williamson @ Wellington Jazz Festival @ San Fran, Wellington - 17/10/2024
22 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Louisa Williamson This gig was part of the Wellington Jazz Festival 2024 (October 16- 20). On Thursday night we climbed the stairs, bought our wines and settled in to experience the debut of an specially commissioned piece called The Chasm Where We Fall Into Each Other, written by saxophonist, composer, and band leader Louisa Williamson, as part of this year’s Wellington Jazz Festival.
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22 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Louisa Williamson This gig was part of the Wellington Jazz Festival 2024 (October 16- 20). On Thursday night we climbed the stairs, bought our wines and settled in to experience the debut of an specially commissioned piece called The Chasm Where We Fall Into Each Other, written by saxophonist, composer, and band leader Louisa Williamson, as part of this year’s Wellington Jazz Festival.
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Jon Toogood - Gig Review: Jon Toogood @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 17/10/2024
22 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
In support of his first solo album Last of the Lonely Gods, Jon Toogood visited what is almost his home-away-from-home, Ahuriri’s coolest little venue, Paisley Stage. An unfortunate cock-up on the communication front meant that I completely missed support act Jazmine Mary-apologies Jazmine!
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Midnight Green - Gig Review: Midnight Green w/ Elisa @ Ponsonby Social Club, Auckland - 19/10/2024
22 Oct 2024 // A review by Amani Sadique
A few things have changed since I last reviewed Tamaki Makaurau-based neo-soul band Midnight Green: new songs, band members, and opening act. The band are currently in the works of creating a second EP, and they teased a few songs from it on Saturday at Ponsonby Social Club, along with introducing two new faces: trumpeter Tim Baker and guitarist Mark Bulos.
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Gig Review: Machine Wreckers @ Fringe in the 'Stings @ The 118, Hastings - 10/10/2024
21 Oct 2024 // A review by Rosheen FitzGerald
Like a night blooming cactus that briefly flowers, Machine Wreckers come out about annually to wow an appreciative crowd before dissolving off to their many and varied other projects. This is a rare treat and we all know it.
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21 Oct 2024 // A review by Rosheen FitzGerald
Like a night blooming cactus that briefly flowers, Machine Wreckers come out about annually to wow an appreciative crowd before dissolving off to their many and varied other projects. This is a rare treat and we all know it.
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Fly My Pretties - Gig Review: Fly My Pretties @ Great Hall, Massey University, Wellington - 19/10/2024
21 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Halfway through the second half 'Leader and Co-founder' Barnaby Weir invited everyone to have a drink afterwards. “Come and chat.
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Lucid Shift - EP Review: Aonaran
18 Oct 2024 // A review by River Tucker
You would be hard pressed to not get excited about Lucid Shift’s debut EP, Aonaran. But be warned, this release isn’t for the fainthearted.
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Em - Album Review: Phases
18 Oct 2024 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
The deep contemplation of Em’s new album Phases is hypnotic. It shows how talented Em is not only as a songwriter but also as an audio engineer.
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Hoodaki - EP Review: Close Your Eyes It's Right In Front Of Your Ears
18 Oct 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
There’s a post on Reddit called “A True Legend”: a clip of Fox 5 News reporter Ophelia Young interviewing a lottery player, with a live patch back to the studio. “Can I ask you, sir …” She approaches the man choosing his numbers.
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Phoebe Rings - Phoebe Rings - EP Review: Phoebe Rings
17 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Go looking for the band’s earlier material and you could be scrambling. That’s because Auckland dream pop outfit Phoebe Rings have wiped the slate clean, expunging previous recordings from the internet in order to make way for their highly accomplished new EP slated to be released on celebrated USA indie label Carpark (Chelsea Jade, The Beths) this October and followed up by a short promotional tour at selected venues across the motu.
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Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie - EP Review: Mercy
16 Oct 2024 // A review by Ayla Chamberlain
Mercy is the debut EP for Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie and it sets the standard high with the first track Vulture, Vulture! starting with an epic guitar solo introducing the drums at 1:18 to make an already catchy beat before Courtnay's husky voice has you listening in awe.
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Gig Review: Ish Presents: All Folked Up @ St Matthews Hall, Hastings - 13/10/2024
16 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
On the final night of Fringe in the Stings’ brief champagne supernova, it was the turn of Ish to land their magic carpet ride back where it all began. Their journey started with an appearance at FITS and has since seen them invited to the top table, the Hawkes Bay Arts Festival itself, along the way.
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16 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
On the final night of Fringe in the Stings’ brief champagne supernova, it was the turn of Ish to land their magic carpet ride back where it all began. Their journey started with an appearance at FITS and has since seen them invited to the top table, the Hawkes Bay Arts Festival itself, along the way.
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Job Site - EP Review: The New Zealand Experience
15 Oct 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Emerging from the Waikato, high energy punk band Job Site showcases their special blend of comedic music on their latest offering, the 4 track The New Zealand Experience EP. The band plays fast and heavy throughout the recording, with rhythms that range from oi-punk, thrash music and even a little 2000’s indie rock.
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CAROUSE - Album Review: Inside Out
14 Oct 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Inside Out is the newest release and the debut album of CAROUSE, an Otautahi/Christchurch based singer-songwriter. This album is listed as a pop album; however, the easy listening, blues, folk, and country roots are obvious, especially in the instrumentation and the lush solos throughout the record.
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Swerve City - EP Review: Over Oceans
14 Oct 2024 // A review by Kris Raven
Kiwi rock alternative 4-piece Swerve City have just dropped their long awaited 6 track EP Over Oceans. A culmination of their musical journey since their beginnings, during the chaos of the early 2020's pandemic.
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Tami Neilson - Gig Review: Tami Neilson @ The Opera House, Wellington - 11/10/2024
14 Oct 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Well, here I am again. Almost a year after Tami Neilson and Dinah Lee teamed up for their Rock n Roll Revue tour of Aotearoa, our ‘Queen of Country’ is back for another celebration of the titans of her beloved genres, Willie Nelson.
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Stretch - Gig Review: Stretch and The Sinners @ St Matthews Hall, Hastings - 11/10/2024
14 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
With a hiss and a roar, Ahuriri’s Stretch, with his newly renamed entourage The Sinners, has burst back in to the public arena. The increasingly essential quick ’n’ dirty October experience that is Fringe in the ‘Stings (or FITS for the impatient!
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Reiki Ruawai - EP Review: The Message
13 Oct 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
I had the pleasure of reviewing Reiki Ruawai’s 2024 debut EP, The Message. Hailing from the iconic left-hand break beach town of Raglan, the album cover features a frolicking Reiki leaping across the sandbars.
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Gig Review: Fables & Greta O’Leary @ Meow, Wellington - 10/10/2024
11 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
On the back of the release of Spook-folk sweetheart Greta O’Leary’s latest singles Baby I’m a Singer and Baptised At The Home Computer, Greta and Fables are embarking on a bit Spring tour, with shows in Tamaki Makaurau and Poneke (and possible other gigs, too) this October. Tonight was their first stop.
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11 Oct 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
On the back of the release of Spook-folk sweetheart Greta O’Leary’s latest singles Baby I’m a Singer and Baptised At The Home Computer, Greta and Fables are embarking on a bit Spring tour, with shows in Tamaki Makaurau and Poneke (and possible other gigs, too) this October. Tonight was their first stop.
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Revulva - Revulva - Album Review: Revulva
10 Oct 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
Reading the description of this artist before I embarked on this review, I wasn’t sure what to expect by a "hedonistic whirlwind of acid jazz, Avant-funk, disco, AOR, and art pop." Now that I know, I’ve found one of my new favourites.
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Mel Parsons - Gig Review: Small Hall Sessions w/ Mel Parsons @ Otane Town Hall, Otane - 09/10/2024
10 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Maintaining an impressive fortnightly schedule after their winter hibernation, the Small Hall Sessions are this week playing host to Otautahi’s Mel Parsons. This marks her debut on the Small Halls circuit, and it’s in support of her recently released album Sabotage, these appearances being dates 15-18 of a wider national tour of 22 nights all up.
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Electric Tapestry - EP Review: Warship Across
09 Oct 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Warship Across is the third EP since their first in 2021 for Wellington-based Electric Tapestry. There is a large and diverse list of musical influences that have gone into making the Electric Tapestry sound.
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Ra Charmian - Album Review: Waiata Wairua
08 Oct 2024 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Waiata Wairua is an album that wouldn’t feel out of place performed in a late night jazz hall in some alternate history where the successes of the Maori battalion lead to a proliferation of Te Reo worldwide. The sort of interest that saw your dad singing in French in the 60's, when Mireille Mathieu was knocking about.
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Jan Hellriegel - Gig Review: Jan Hellriegel @ The Piano, Christchurch - 04/10/2024
06 Oct 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
It's always a treat to get to go see a show at Christchurch's beautiful The Piano, and sit in its stunning auditorium. Unfortunately, I arrived slightly late due to some teenage hijinks on the home front, so I missed the start of Steffany Beck's set.
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Sidewinder - Gig Review: Sidewinder w/Tusk & Awarewolves @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 28/09/2024
05 Oct 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Ahuriri’s coolest little venue, Paisley Stage, tonight played host to Poneke heavyweights Sidewinder and Kirikiriroa’s Tusk, with locals Awarewolves providing the third leg of the stool. The combination made for a great night’s entertainment, 3 bands giving it their all and doing their level best to threaten the building’s structural integrity!
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Goodspace - Album Review: Let’s Talk About Death
04 Oct 2024 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
"Let’s. Talk.
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Louis Baker - EP Review: Medicine
04 Oct 2024 // A review by Daniel OBrien
I’ve never tried heroin. But after listening to Louis Baker's new EP Medicine, I have a greater appreciation of what the experience may be like.
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Goodwill - Album Review: Kind Hands
03 Oct 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Goodwill is the solo project of producer, songwriter, and former nomad member Will McGillivray. Having been songwriting over the last couple of years since the release of the Incontrol EP, Goodwill is releasing Kind Hands, a debut album of nine tracks.
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Muriwai - Muriwai - Album Review: Muriwai
02 Oct 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Muriwai is the latest undertaking by Bob Bickerton and Ariana Tikao, a new and greatly anticipated collaboration in Aotearoa’s world of traditional music. Bob is a highly influential sound engineer, performer, educator, a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to music, and composer who has worked in the New Zealand music industry for almost 50 years.
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Ollie McLean - EP Review: Bluesrappin'
29 Sep 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Ollie McLean's debut EP Bluesrappin' is quite the experience. Recorded and produced by his friend, Ollie who is only 21 brings a sound that reminds me of a cross between old school Beck and Beastie Boys.
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Gig Review: Small Hall Sessions w/ Delaney Davidson and Barry Saunders @ Te Awanga Hall, Te-Matau-a-Maui - 27/09/2024
28 Sep 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
The opening run of the Small Hall Sessions featured the pairing of Barry Saunders and Delaney Davidson. Now, nearly 3 and a half years and around 180 Sessions later, this remarkable duo has returned to stomp the boards of Hawkes Bay’s rural hubs.
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28 Sep 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
The opening run of the Small Hall Sessions featured the pairing of Barry Saunders and Delaney Davidson. Now, nearly 3 and a half years and around 180 Sessions later, this remarkable duo has returned to stomp the boards of Hawkes Bay’s rural hubs.
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Pining Radiata - EP Review: Skin
27 Sep 2024 // A review by Trevor Faville
These days it's not unusual to see, and indeed expect, a high level of songwriting craft and instrumental skill from younger or less experienced bands. Debut recordings now tend to be polished and well-crafted affairs.
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BAYNK - Album Review: Senescence
26 Sep 2024 // A review by Amani Sadique
The sun was beaming through scratched windows of the upstairs of a double-decker bus and my skin warmed as I overlooked Broadway - no, not the New York one… the Newmarket one, unfortunately. I started to recall memories of what life in Tamaki Makaurau was like only a few weeks back - for me, it consisted of living in a flat so cold that you could see your breath as you spoke to flatmates over the table at breakfast.
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Shady Brain Farm - Album Review: ..Another Set Of Circumstances
26 Sep 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Shady Brain Farm hail from North-West Auckland — specifically Kumeu, Waimauku, and Muriwai Beach — and has been making music together since 1997. The band, Ben Furniss lead vocals, guitar, and keyboards, Paul Taylor drums and backing vocals, and Chris Vaughan on bass and backing vocals are certainly no strangers to musical diversity and are back with a new album, ...
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Marlin's Dreaming - Gig Review: Marlin's Dreaming @ Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 19/09/2024
21 Sep 2024 // A review by Samantha Cheong
The memory of a shadow, its original form stretched out threefold across the outer walls of the Hollywood Avondale, is the first and strange thing I remember from my time watching Marlin’s Dreaming on Thursday night. It’s the shadow of a singer, mic in front of him, guitar neck peeking forward.
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TOI - Album Review: Waves
17 Sep 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
Waves is the 2024 album from the 7-piece ensemble, TOI (Tunes Of I), produced by Wellington based artist and producer Neil MacLeod. Throughout the 10 tracks, you are treated to the true talent of each of these musicians; layers of guitar, trombone, saxophone, synths and keys create a tasteful blend of funk, dub and soul.
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Claudia Robin Gunn - Album Review: Little Wild Learning
16 Sep 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
The art of writing children's music is deceptively harder than people might expect. The songs are easy to listen to and lyrically simple, but they must incorporate educational vocabulary, introduce new ideas about life, and maintain a catchiness that gives young listeners a fun experience, rather than one that could be overwhelming.
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Gig Review: Small Hall Sessions w/ Dave Khan @ Poukawa Hall, Hawkes Bay - 13/09/2024
14 Sep 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
As this represents the first appearance of the Small Hall Sessions in the pages of Muzic NZ, allow me to introduce you! The Small Hall Sessions are the brainchild of Jamie MacPhail, a man with most of the interesting people in Aotearoa’s musical firmament on speed dial.
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14 Sep 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
As this represents the first appearance of the Small Hall Sessions in the pages of Muzic NZ, allow me to introduce you! The Small Hall Sessions are the brainchild of Jamie MacPhail, a man with most of the interesting people in Aotearoa’s musical firmament on speed dial.
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Frau Knotz - EP Review: Nextraterrestrial
13 Sep 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Frau Knotz is the performing name of multi-talented Lauren Nottingham, a singer, pianist, producer and composer based in New Plymouth. Having released the first of her singles in 2022, she now bestows her EP Nextraterrestrial upon then planet Earth.
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Ayla Gold - EP Review: Nuance
12 Sep 2024 // A review by Hope Milo
Ayla Gold’s Nuance EP is a dreamy, emotional ride that shows off her ability to blend indie-rock energy with deep, heartfelt lyricism. The first track, Thrills, starts things off with a dreamy electric guitar riff that immediately pulls you in.
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Jai Bartlett - Album Review: Echoes
11 Sep 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Jai Bartlett is from Wellington, where he creates his "Alternative Hip-Hop", a description that immediately had me interested. He describes his debut album Echoes as "diverse", and I had the pleasure of discovering what an understatement that is.
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Saurian - EP Review: Bled Dry
09 Sep 2024 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
From Dunedin, New Zealand comes Saurian, a four-piece hard rock band with a new EP called Bled Dry which came out Friday the 13th of September. The 5 song EP includes the band's latest 3 singles, Devil Among Men, Down at the Crown, and Park Bench.
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Zed - Album Review: Future Memory
04 Sep 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
You know the name, and you know the sound of Zed, but did you know that here in 2024, the Christchurch icons are back with a new album? Because even though it has been 21 years, they never really stopped making music.
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Blake - EP Review: I'm Doing Fine!
04 Sep 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
Blake's I’m Doing Fine! bursts to life with Red Hearts.
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Festival Review: Great Sounds Great Review 2 @ Wellington - 31/08/2024
03 Sep 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Six iconic venues. Twenty eight acts.
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03 Sep 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Six iconic venues. Twenty eight acts.
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Festival Review: Great Sounds Great Review 1 @ Wellington - 31/08/2024
02 Sep 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Back again, this time during the heart of the Capital’s deepest, darkest days – August. And tonight, it definitely put on a real show of the elements with torrential rain and cyclone force winds hosing down every crack and cranny of the city.
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02 Sep 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Back again, this time during the heart of the Capital’s deepest, darkest days – August. And tonight, it definitely put on a real show of the elements with torrential rain and cyclone force winds hosing down every crack and cranny of the city.
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Peace Love Perfection - Album Review: Nirvana Is Peace
29 Aug 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Nirvana Is Peace the debut album from Wellington native and multi-instrumentalist Anthony Barnao’s project Peace Love Perfection – a 50 minute trip around psychedelia, EDM, jazz and mysticism. These are mostly instrumentals with low key dance grooves or classic jazz rhythms, Rhodes pianos, retro synths, funk bass lines walking across octaves, claves, shakers and central to the picture, Barnao’s inspired saxophone playing.
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Voodoo Bloo - Album Review: Dead-end Rodeo
28 Aug 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Rodeos, at least in this country, aren’t perceived as sport nowadays. If the term is used at all in New Zealand it usually refers to a metaphor for an intense struggle to survive or to conquer the unconquerable, if but for fleeting moment.
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Louisa Nicklin - Album Review: The Big Sulk
26 Aug 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
Fresh to the turntable is the second full suite release from Tamaki Makaurau songwriter and graduate of Te Koki New Zealand School of Music Louisa Nicklin. Regular gig attendees may already know Nicklin from her time playing with Dimmer and Mermaidens, tucked in the back providing robust rhythms on their trusty six string.
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Nathan Grey - EP Review: Greatness
24 Aug 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
Greatness EP is the August 2024 release from Nathan Grey, a multi-talented artist hailing from Taupo (Ngati Tuwharetoa). This 4 minute 12 second debut was produced by Beatspun LTD which is a studio based in Tamaki Makaurau.
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Rob Joass - Album Review: Faultlines
21 Aug 2024 // A review by Sickshooter.jpg
I believe something fundamental changed in both the music industry, and the public consciousness, when Taylor Swift released Folklore in 2020, bear with me here. Folklore created space in the top 40 for a more stripped down sound, with more focus on lyricism and emotion.
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Nathan Haines - Album Review: Notes
18 Aug 2024 // A review by Tim Gruar
The whakapapa of Nathan Haines' 11th studio effort, his first since 2014, stretches back over a decade and features a through-line narrative from his iconic London Jazz Café days to his darker moments battling throat cancer and brighter days as a new parent. The signposts of Haines career are as easy to read as neon in the darkness.
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Festival Review: Go Live! Festival @ Town Hall, Christchurch - 17/08/2024
18 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Christchurch City Council's Winter music festival, Go Live!, is now in its fifth year.
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18 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Christchurch City Council's Winter music festival, Go Live!, is now in its fifth year.
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The Early 20’s - EP Review: Vultures
16 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Whilst citing influences so broad and diverse as to be "way too many" to list, and those influences are drawn from "anywhere and everywhere", The Early 20's will have you believe that at the end of the day, they're a punk band. Defining one's band's genre can often be difficult, especially in cases like this where a multitude of influences are at play.
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Sidewinder - Album Review: Talons
15 Aug 2024 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's Sidewinder are back and bringing the heavy with their sophomore album Talons, following up from 2022’s diverse and solid debut album Vines (see review here). In four years, Sidewinder have built a strong foundation and reputation within the Aotearoa music scene, with heavy national touring as well as supporting international artists.
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Al Park - Album Review: Monkey
15 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Al Park is an integral part of the Christchurch music scene, woven deep into the fabric of the city's musical history. From his early days in the punk scene, through to packing houses with either Louie and the Hot Sticks or with The Latter Day Sinners, manning the counter at the iconic Echo records or behind the bar at his legendary venue Al's Bar, and being a champion of many of the exponents of the "Lyttelton Sound", Al has contributed immeasurable amounts of time, energy, and soul into his passion for music.
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Black Smoke Trigger - Album Review: Horizons
14 Aug 2024 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
Horizons by Black Smoke Trigger is a great album to listen to all the way through and with every listen I notice something new. I would be foolish to attempt to put into writing everything that is great about this music, but I have attempted to express my thoughts and feelings about each of the whopping 12 songs.
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Shepherds Reign - Gig Review: Shepherds Reign @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 10/08/2024
12 Aug 2024 // A review by Samantha Cheong
“What genre are you all here for?” Polynesian band Top Shelf asked the crowd shortly as they finished their supporting set.
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Shepherds Reign - Gig Review: Shepherds Reign @ A Rolling Stone, Christchurch - 8/08/2024
10 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I was stoked to get to go check out this show, it was my second time seeing both bands on the bill, so I had fairly high expectations. Those expectations weren't just met, they were blown right out of the water.
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The Wax Birds - Album Review: A Steady Hope
08 Aug 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
The Wax Birds are an acoustic, country-folk duo based on the West Coast of Canterbury. Originally from Yorkshire (UK), the duo took advantage of the down time, during the chaos of 2020, to create their own unique sound and brand of country folk ballads as well as reinventing some of their favourite and most inspired cover songs.
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Tavita & Bay Road - Tavita & Bay Road - EP Review: Tavita & Bay Road
08 Aug 2024 // A review by Hope Milo
Tavita & Bay Road deliver a standout debut in their self-titled EP, blending a range of genres from funk to reggae, to R&B/soul, into a rich and fresh sound. Lay It Down, the band’s debut single, kicks off the EP with a funky bass riff that you can’t help but groove along to.
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Kath Bee - Album Review: Simple Action Songs for Babies to 2yrs for Learning & Fun
07 Aug 2024 // A review by Hope Milo
Kath Bee’s Simple Action Songs for Babies to 2 yrs for Learning & Fun offers an engaging and educational experience designed specifically for the youngest of listeners. It's clear that Bee has a real talent for creating interactive music that captures the attention and imagination of toddlers.
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Hateseeker - EP Review: More Songs About Sex And Death
02 Aug 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
First of all, I just want to say how much I appreciate a really good band name, and I reckon Hateseeker is one of the best I've heard in quite a while, one of those "man I wish I'd thought of that" names. It's a pretty safe bet that you know what you're going to get, with that name.
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Black Comet - Gig Review: Black Comet @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 26/07/2024
02 Aug 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Ahuriri’s Paisley Stage was the setting for the Looking for a New Planet tour appearance of Black Comet, Laughton Kora’s ensemble of funky rock monsters, and the Comet took in its trail a whole new body of fans! Introductory duties fell to Willsy and Friends, the elastic combo I’ve previously mentioned in these pages.
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Hadees Drudge - Album Review: The Mind Lies When The Soul Dies
01 Aug 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Hadees Drudge is quite an anomaly in Wellington’s metal scene. Forgoing a second guitarist, they proudly rock one guitar in a genre where that’s almost unheard of.
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Bad Schematics - Gig Review: Bad Schematics @ Moon, Wellington - 26/07/2024
27 Jul 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Fresh from picking up numerous awards in the recent National Battle of the Bands competition, Bad Schematics have embarked on a North Island tour including Tauranga, Auckland and their hometown Palmerston North, to promote their newest album,C O L L I D E. Tonight, along with winners of the competition for this year, Adoneye, finalists Donal and The Bucks and last year’s second place winners, Dave and the Dirty Humans, Bad Schematics hit Wellington’s favourite underground alternative music venue and pizzeria, Moon.
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Gig Review: Wellington Invasion @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 20/07/2024
25 Jul 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Bringing a touch of Poneke vibes to Ahuriri’s Paisley Stage, The Bravo Uniform Mikes, with their partners in crime Adoneye, continued their mission of bringing the noise. And what a noise!
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25 Jul 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
Bringing a touch of Poneke vibes to Ahuriri’s Paisley Stage, The Bravo Uniform Mikes, with their partners in crime Adoneye, continued their mission of bringing the noise. And what a noise!
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Written By Wolves - Album Review: The Lighthouse
25 Jul 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
After the success of their 2019 debut, Secrets, Written By Wolves deliver a sophomore project with teeth. Described as one of the most exciting up-and-coming rock acts in the country, The Lighthouse is a cinematic specimen of the world-class electro-rock band they are quickly becoming.
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Lucy Gray - Album Review: whole life waiting
24 Jul 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Seventeen year old singer-songwriter Lucy Gray from Otautahi, New Zealand has landed on the NZ Hot New Music Charts, and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world hears. Gray’s whole life waiting EP is versatile and compelling.
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TRiPS - TRiPS - Album Review: TRiPS
24 Jul 2024 // A review by Scarlett Walsh
The self-titled 2024 album TRiPS is the debut release from duo Barnaby Weir and Andy Christiansen. The pair have collaborated with an impressive list of supporting talent to create a psychedelic rock fusion delight.
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Amanaki - EP Review: Embers
22 Jul 2024 // A review by River Tucker
Amanaki might not be a household name yet, but along with their indie label, North Supply Co., they’re definitely on track to grab your attention.
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Cairo Knife Fight - EP Review: Dream Season
19 Jul 2024 // A review by Paul Goddard
Cairo Knife Fight have been around a while and been through a lot. Spawned in NZ and now based in the U S of A it has been a journey full of highs and lows.
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Floyd Marsden - Gig Review: Floyd Marsden @ Valhalla, Wellington - 18/07/2024
19 Jul 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Although technically a sad affair, (as it was to be final of Floyd Marsden’s string of local shows promoting her album The Disco Lizards), the atmosphere in Valhalla was uncharacteristically filled with retro vibes but the usual friendly faces. In support for this show was Adult Friends, spearheaded by vocalist/guitarist Jackson Kidd who was also the producer of The Disco Lizards.
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Menzies - EP Review: Spaghetti Land
18 Jul 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Menzies are a four-piece melting pot of marvellously talented folk from Wellington, comprised of Chris Brown (Friendlies), Miles Sutton (Welcomer, Prizegiving), Doug Kelly (Girl Boss), Nikita Piper (Friendlies, Androgynous Lemon). They have just released their debut EP, Spaghetti Land, to riotous applause, fanfares, parades in their honour, a 21 gun salute, and the keys to the city.
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Matt Langley - Album Review: As Real As You Want It To Be
18 Jul 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
From Dunedin, but currently residing in Japan, Matt Langley is an artist who has already made an impressive impact on the New Zealand music scene, and with new album As Real As You Want It To Be, he's certainly poised to consolidate that position. Matt is an acclaimed and awarded songwriter, and has a weighty list of artists he has collaborated with, toured with, or supported, including names like Lindon Puffin, The Eastern, Martin Phillipps, Sir Dave Dobbyn, and Head like A Hole.
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Thousand Limbs - Album Review: The Aurochs
16 Jul 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Thousand Limbs has been on the scene now for a few years (since 2016) and have gained quite the following since, for their powerhouse of instrumental metal. Now, if you are also a fan of Kerretta and Nine Inch Nails then Thousand Limbs will be right up your alley.
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Napoleon Baby - EP Review: Unworthy Boys
15 Jul 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
The debut EP from Napoleon Baby, Unworthy Boys, is here, and what a release. The Tamaki Makarau trio have delivered a well-crafted and honed effort that explores our life and times and the frustrations and injustices they come with.
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Diaz Grimm - Album Review: Maui & The Sin
11 Jul 2024 // A review by Sickshooter.jpg
Diaz Grimm, a pioneer of trap rap and EDM in Aotearoa brings statesmanship, righteous anger and vulnerability with his third album; Maui & The Sin, and the music is only part of the story.A splash has been made by Grimm’s use of AOT (Album Ownership Tokens) as a funding method and his new look as an AI avatar, but what’s behind the hype?
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Psycho Gab - EP Review: Crazy Talk
11 Jul 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
Psycho Gab, formed in early 2023, this five-piece, neo-soul band based in Tamaki Makaurau, the group claim to have cultivated a unique sound formed at the crossroads between soul, RnB, jazz and pop, leaving endless possibilities of smooth grooves up for exploration. Ridiculously accomplished musicians, who would not be out of place in a Washington DC late night jazz scene.
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Fan Club - EP Review: Towards The Sun
09 Jul 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
2024 is set to be another monumental year for Tamaki Makaurau’s Fan Club. Just last year they claimed a multitude of awards, including the top prize at Raise Up’s New Found Sound, and placing first in the Auckland Central Final of the SmokeFree RockQuest.
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Drax Project - Gig Review: Drax Project @ Powerstation, Auckland - 6/07/2024
08 Jul 2024 // A review by pthornton08
“What you see is what you’re going to get. Cut the bullshit.
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SKILAA - Album Review: Tiger In The River
04 Jul 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
SKILAA’s sound is a unique blend of RnB, alternative, progressive folk, and hip-hop. The band began writing together in late 2017 after meeting through Auckland University’s Jazz programme.
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Silk Cut - Silk Cut - Album Review: Silk Cut
02 Jul 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Having already released two EPs, and then followed up with full length album Our Place In The Stars, Silk Cut have returned to titillate your earholes with a brand new, self-titled album. The line-up of two guitars, bass, and drums also has shared lead vocals, and delivers a heady blend of 60's psychedelia and 90's guitar-based pop/rock.
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Cherry Slits - Cherry Slits - EP Review: Cherry Slits Are Back
01 Jul 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
So, there's a wee bit of a story to go with this one, and it's been a lot of fun to review. Nicola Cheeseman Is Back is a new play by Kathryn Burnett, detailing the story of a 50 year old woman having a midlife crisis, who decides to get her '80s punk band, Cherry Slits, back together.
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Marsha - Album Review: In Circles
01 Jul 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Marsha hail from my hometown of Christchurch, and I'm a tad ashamed to say I hadn't actually heard them up until now, but I'd heard many good things about them. In Circles is their debut album, containing some previously released singles, and has been in the works since 2021, and all the painstaking care that was put into its creation is evident in every note of every song.
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L.A.B. - Gig Review L.A.B @ Globox Arena, Hamilton - 29/06/2024
01 Jul 2024 // A review by pthornton08
Matariki is a time for all to, pause, reflect and celebrate success. What better way to celebrate the Maori New Year than spending an evening with some of Aotearoa’s finest musicians.
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Lost Tribe Aotearoa - Gig Review: Lost Tribe Aotearoa @ Yot Club, Raglan - 28/06/2024
29 Jun 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
It was a bittersweet night in Raglan on Friday the 28th of June as a crowd gathered to farewell The Yot Club one last time. What a sendoff it was!
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Anna Coddington - Album Review: Te Whakamiha
27 Jun 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Te Whakamiha is the newest eight track album from the multitalented Anna Coddington. Named after a loose translation of her band The Appreciations, this album is fun, groovy, and incredibly danceable.
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Devilskin - Gig Review: Devilskin @ The Factory, Hamilton - 21/06/2024
23 Jun 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
Walking through the main entrance to The Factory on Friday night, you could be forgiven for thing you’d stepped onto battlefield before the carnage. With a packed house only a few minutes after doors opened - an impressive feat for Kirikiriroa - and the mist from the fog machine descended across the stage.
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Miss French - Album Review: The Trials And Tribulations Of Miss French Part Two
21 Jun 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Miss French is the performing name of Julie Foai, who spent 20 years touring the world with South Pacific band Te Vaka, and managed them into securing a contract with Walt Disney Pictures. Having released her debut solo album in 2016, The Trials And Tribulations Of Miss French, Pt.
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Taveets - EP Review: WINT/HER
21 Jun 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Taveets has been steadily releasing singles and EPs since 2019, including 2023's Balcony Nights EP which could almost be considered album length at seven songs. The Wellington-born and raised Samoan/Futuan artist/rapper has just released his latest HipHop/RnB offering, WINT/HER, the five songs looking at love and relationships from different angles, and in different moods.
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Nur Peach - Album Review: Syncopate
21 Jun 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Coromandel Peninsula's Nur Peach is fresh off a bachelor's degree in Pop Music and is immediately "gathering momentum" to realize her dream of releasing an album. Syncopate is an eclectic pop-folk and adult contemporary record full of motivational coming-of-age material, produced in collaboration with Auckland's Scott Seabright.
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Luna Shadows - Album Review: bathwater
19 Jun 2024 // A review by Trevor Faville
Luna Shadows' new album bathwater arrives on the back of considerable momentum from their previous work. Currently based in Los Angeles, since releasing the single Hallelujah California in 2016, Luna Shadows has garnered considerable attention, some serious press and impressive listening numbers.
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Devilskin - Gig Review: Devilskin @ ToiToi Opera House, Hastings - 15/06/2024
18 Jun 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
On a chilly Te-Matau-A-Maui evening, Devilskin brought the warmth to a capacity crowd at Hastings’ ToiToi, with the help of a few friends. Probably the loudest the old girl’s been for some time, as they celebrated the 10th anniversary of the release of debut album We Rise.
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South for Winter - Album Review: Of Sea and Sky
17 Jun 2024 // A review by Hannah Jane
Recorded and produced in Nashville TN alongside two-time Grammy award-winner, Matt Leigh, Of Sea and Sky is a beautiful offering from folk-rock trio South For Winter. New Zealander Nick Stone, Colorado native Dani Cichon (Stone), and Michigander Alex Stradal are three multi-instrumentalists and songwriters.
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Gig Review: Bitta Batta @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 14/06/2024
16 Jun 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
The weather outside was frightful, but inside the coolest little venue in Ahuriri, things were anything but, as the soulful Bitta Batta were making their debut on the Te-Matau-A-Maui stage! Such ventures require a supportive hand in their genesis, and tonight that fell to the amorphous collective that is Willsy and Friends.
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16 Jun 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
The weather outside was frightful, but inside the coolest little venue in Ahuriri, things were anything but, as the soulful Bitta Batta were making their debut on the Te-Matau-A-Maui stage! Such ventures require a supportive hand in their genesis, and tonight that fell to the amorphous collective that is Willsy and Friends.
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Devilskin - Gig Review: Devilskin @ The Hunter Lounge, Wellington - 13/06/2024
16 Jun 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
It’s been a hot minute since my last encounter with the Hunter Lounge. Memories of O-Week, indie-pop and rap shows still linger.
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Silcrow - Silcrow - EP Review: Silcrow
14 Jun 2024 // A review by River Tucker
Aiming for the stars, Silcrow’s seven-track EP merges American-style rock with a touch of Seattle grunge in a well-produced release that will appeal to many generations of music lovers, but mainly to those whose musical awakening happened sometime in the 90’s.As well as changing their name from Close To The Bone to the much more kick-arse Silcrow, these four young guys from Auckland have been working hard on the live circuit (bar a short hiatus during lockdown) to get their songs fully dialled in and ready for the studio.
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Dónal Gunning - EP Review: Born To Perform
13 Jun 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Dónal Gunning's travels, since leaving his native Ireland, have seen him eventually relocate to Wellington, where he has been regularly gigging as a solo artist, and with backing band The Bucks. The Bucks are comprised of a collective of Wellington session musicians and have also accompanied Dónal on two north Island tours, delivering fun and energetic shows.
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SuperMild - SuperMild - EP Review: SuperMild
11 Jun 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
SuperMild is a busy band playing lots of venues and entertaining crowds with their blend of reggae tinged psychedelic rock. Their debut, self-titled four song EP is out now, and it spans the many sounds the band can summon with just three members.
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Crowded House - Album Review: Gravity Stairs
10 Jun 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
In a moment we’ve all been waiting for, Crowded House, who need no introduction have released their new album, Gravity Stairs. It’s only been a little over two years since their last offering, Dreamers Are Waiting (2021) and it seems fans just can’t get enough.
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Valere - EP Review: Gold Dust
10 Jun 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Christchurch performer Valere has built an impressive catalogue over the past decade, and her latest EP Gold Dust is no exception. Informed by recent years of experiences with motherhood, marriage and familial love and loss, Valere rediscovered the simplicity of songwriting on the guitar, and has now shared six powerful tracks motivated by this artistic return.
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Carb On Carb - Gig Review: Carb On Carb @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 08/06/2024
10 Jun 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Carb On Carb are currently on a tour of Australia and New Zealand, which will see them perform five dates in each country. Touring is right at the heart and soul of their drive as a band, having seen them perform extensively throughout New Zealand, Australia, Asia, and the USA.
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Take Hold - EP Review: Stay Down
10 Jun 2024 // A review by Kris Raven
Aotearoa melodic hardcore alumni Take Hold, have returned with brand new music, dropping four of five tracks as a single format prior to the release of their self-produced, 5-track EP entitled Stay Down. This method has fast become the norm in the world of modern music releases and streaming.
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Toby Sussex - EP Review: Weather Dependent
08 Jun 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Toby Sussex’s debut EP Weather Dependent is a compact and ultimately satisfying set of singer-songwriter style reflections on life, death and relationships. It has catchy melodies and is well performed and produced, signalling at the outset that Sussex has what it takes to produce a full album in the singer songwriter genre.
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Ms. Mia - EP Review: Living In The Shadows
06 Jun 2024 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Born in Manila and residing in Auckland, Mia Caintic AKA Ms. Mia has just released her 5-track debut EP Living In The Shadows.
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Big Sima - EP Review: Early In The Peace
06 Jun 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The Underground King, AKA Big Sima, has just released a new EP in collaboration with Boomtown, a follow-up to 2022's full length album, Stereotypes Of A Polynesian Misunderstood. Big Sima has been relentlessly busy making a name for himself over the last few years, and that work ethic has seen him win support slots for Busta Rhymes, Bone Thugs 'n’ Harmony, Guru (Gangstarr), Mobb Deep and Cypress Hill.
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Georgia Lines - Album Review: The Rose of Jericho
06 Jun 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
It would appear that Georgia Lines has waited too long to not take the release of her hotly anticipated debut, a once in a lifetime event, by the horns. The self-titled route will not suffice, especially when the artist is turning her imperishable dedication and vulnerability into an audible mark on both Aotearoa and international music.
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Mel Parsons - Album Review: Sabotage
06 Jun 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
A dark, unique voice in both writing and music, Mel Parsons has blessed us with a gorgeous 8-Track Album dubbed Sabotage. The album has a mellow and intimate opener with Circling the City, already diving head first into my interpretation of the album's themes of anxiety and how it influences self-sabotage.
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Government Pest - EP Review: Vol. 3
05 Jun 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Formed from the ashes of local bands, Hellborne and Wall of Silents to name a few, Government Pest have been on the scene since 2014 and have never failed to amaze fans with their solid metal offerings and swag of albums over the years. 2024 is no different and they’re back again with a new EP, Vol.
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Anecdata - Album Review: Obsolete
05 Jun 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Anecdata is a one man band, Dan, who proves without a shadow of a doubt that a single person can be far more prolific than a band of many members. He has recorded nine albums and a number of singles, dabbling in various genres (grunge pop as well as new wave inspired rock) and done covers also including New Zealand classic Sierra Leone, originally by Coconut Rough, and two Beatles covers (I Am The Walrus, and Things We Said Today).
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Gig Review: Voom, Reb Fountain & Vera Ellen @ The Great Hall, Wellington - 1/06/2024
04 Jun 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Audiences in Te Whanganui-A-Tara can rejoice to the sound of a new venue, one that is already so ingrained in the identity of our city and the culture within. It’s just so fitting that The Dominion Museum Building at Massey, a structure which has seen generations pass through its doors to take their place, would cradle three mammoth musical groups in its first ever ‘rock n roll show’.
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04 Jun 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Audiences in Te Whanganui-A-Tara can rejoice to the sound of a new venue, one that is already so ingrained in the identity of our city and the culture within. It’s just so fitting that The Dominion Museum Building at Massey, a structure which has seen generations pass through its doors to take their place, would cradle three mammoth musical groups in its first ever ‘rock n roll show’.
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Gig Review: Voom, Reb Fountain & Vera Ellen @ Powerstation, Auckland - 2/06/2024
04 Jun 2024 // A review by Samantha Cheong
Brent Eccles’ alleged idea for a three headliner tour of Aotearoa featuring cherished and acclaimed Flying Nun artists Voom, [Vera Ellen} and Reb Fountain is nothing short of genius and an historical accomplishment. There was a packed turnout at Auckland’s The Powerstation on the Sunday of King’s Birthday weekend, consisting of many adults near or in middle age.
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04 Jun 2024 // A review by Samantha Cheong
Brent Eccles’ alleged idea for a three headliner tour of Aotearoa featuring cherished and acclaimed Flying Nun artists Voom, [Vera Ellen} and Reb Fountain is nothing short of genius and an historical accomplishment. There was a packed turnout at Auckland’s The Powerstation on the Sunday of King’s Birthday weekend, consisting of many adults near or in middle age.
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Aotearoa Music Awards 2024
02 Jun 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Thursday 30 May, 2024 was a wonderful night for our music industry. The Aotearoa Music Awards were being held for the first time at the Viaduct Event Centre, and for the first time in two years.
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02 Jun 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Thursday 30 May, 2024 was a wonderful night for our music industry. The Aotearoa Music Awards were being held for the first time at the Viaduct Event Centre, and for the first time in two years.
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Thomas Powers - Album Review: A Tyrant Crying In Private
01 Jun 2024 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
This stunning 14-track debut solo album from Thomas Powers, of The Naked and Famous fame; A Tyrant Crying in Private is intense yet delicate, holding sadness and beauty in equal measure, deliciously gorgeous in all its glitched and distorted goodness. Parts of the album feel very heavy emotionally, particularly the neo-classical instrumental pieces, which have a vast cinematic effect.
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Craig Payne - Album Review: Face The Music
31 May 2024 // A review by pthornton08
Craig Payne sounds like a man who has found his happy place. The Christchurch-based singer songwriter is back with his fifth studio album Face The Music.
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Liam Gonen - Album Review: Expiration Date:
30 May 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
The debut album from Liam Gonen - Expiration Date: has found its way onto my review list today. Liam released his first single Judas back in 2022, and while there may be a bit of a vibe shift to the melody with Expiration Date: from his previous work, his unique vocal style and lyrical work are still prominent on this latest release.
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Dan Sharp - Album Review: Between The Brave, Bold and Given Up
30 May 2024 // A review by Ben Ruegg
The opening track of Dan Sharp's album named Between The Brave, Bold and Given Up sounds familiar in a good way. It's like coming home after a long day, with cold weather and rain, but opening a door to warmth and comfort.
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The Bravo Uniform Mikes - EP Review: Punching Darts & Breaking Hearts
28 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The Bravo Uniform Mikes AKA The B.U.
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Claemus - EP Review: Mercurial
27 May 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Mercurial, is the latest 5- track EP from Wellington powerhouse Claemus, and what an instalment it is! At some stage or another in New Zealand music, you would have heard this trio of talent.
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Havening - Double Album Review: Wavelengths of Light
26 May 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Big things are happening for Bonnie O'Donnell. Under her alias of Havening, she’s been eagerly crafting bucketloads of electronic music, releasing them all as not one, but two albums.
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Ben Lloyd - Album Review: Leap of Faith
26 May 2024 // A review by Peter-James Dries
For over 30 years, this self-taught rocker from Mt Maunganui has been writing music. Now, for the first time since 2013, we finally get to hear his songs.
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Turkey The Bird - Gig Review: Turkey The Bird @ TET Cue Theatre, Inglewood - 23/05/2024
25 May 2024 // A review by Sickshooter.jpg
I for one am glad to see the banjo making a comeback, although my metalhead friends make me feel that I may be alone in this opinion, Turkey The Bird puts these fears to rest. So when I was given the opportunity to photograph and review their gig at Inglewood's Cue Theatre I was frothing..
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Polite Company - Album Review: Please Go Wild
24 May 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
I guess it’s not a surprise that after the Mutton Birds (Dominion Road, Anchor Me, etc.) all the members went on to further greatness: David Long to scoring movies and the Labcoats, Ross Burge to play drums for virtually all of New Zealand’s musical royalty, and Don McGlashen to solo notoriety.
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Parallel Park - Album Review: Growing Taller
24 May 2024 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
Growing Taller from Parallel Park is a very interesting listen. To call it indie pop rock is like putting it into an existing box when it’s something unique that deserves to proudly stand alone.
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Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields - Album Review: I Remember You
24 May 2024 // A review by Hannah Jane
I Remember You is the recently released collaborative offering from multi award winning Americana/Folk duo Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields. Over ten delightful songs, this record weaves stories of loss and love together with a strong sense of connection to the places they call home.
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PARK RD - Album Review The Novel
23 May 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
It’s easy to see why Auckland five-piece, PARK RD is making some noise, figuratively and literally with their debut album, The Novel. Heavy on the indie, but far from light with solid guitar riffs and pop and funk sensibilities, PARK RD are a great example of solid musicianship.
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The Dirty Tones - Album Review: Sweet Thang
23 May 2024 // A review by Paul Goddard
For me, Blues music is the real soul music. It has storytelling like Country and folk music and passion like Rock music, but at its core it gives a window into the soul of the people creating it.
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Saurian - Gig Review: Saurian @ Darkroom, Christchurch - 18/05/2024
21 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Dunedin's Saurian are on a sacred mission: To do anything they can to assist in saving beloved and iconic Dunedin music venue, The Crown. Nearby developments threaten The Crown's ability to host live music, and what better way to spread the word but through song, thought Saurian, and rightly so, too.
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Carb On Carb - Gig Review: Carb on Carb @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 17/05/2024
19 May 2024 // A review by LouClementine
Carb On Carb took to the Wine Cellar stage in Auckland on Friday night to showcase their album Take Time which was released on the same day, 17 May, 2024. As soon as I heard this band I instantly thought they would be amazing live, and I wasn’t wrong.
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C. Zukey - Album Review: Stone Fruit
18 May 2024 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
The sparkling new debut Stone Fruit by C. Zukey is a full-hearted reflection of feelings and a gentle sting of honest self-internalization.
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Devilskin - EP Review: Surfacing
17 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
At this point in their career, Devilskin scarcely need any introduction. However, on the freakish, bizzaro-world chance that you're not already familiar, the high-octane, fire-breathing, badass rock & roll juggernaut four-piece formed in Hamilton in 2010 and have been kicking arse and stealing hearts ever since.
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Sam Bambery - Album Review: Rubricator
16 May 2024 // A review by Samantha Cheong
"A ‘rubricator’ was a copyist or scribe in the Middle Ages, whose role was to etch rubrics and eye-catching typography (typically in red ink) to signify important passages of a book such as changes in time, concept or setting. Sam Bambery’s second studio album of the same name captures the anxiety and intricacies living in a “postmodern world where nothing is truly new, just our individual expression”.
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Carb On Carb - Album Review: Take Time
16 May 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Carb on Carb was a busy, touring band until the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. While promoting their first two full length albums, For Ages and their self-titled debut, James Stuteley (drums / vocals) and Nicole Gaffney (guitar / vocals) toured as far as Japan and the US, as well as extensively throughout New Zealand.
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Ekko Park - EP Review: Let's Talk About Last Night... The End of the World
16 May 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
Ekko Park's new EP Let's Talk About Last Night... The End of the World - released on May 10th, 2024 is the first release since their UnMute EP in 2022.
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The Advocators - Album Review: Songs From An Endless Night
14 May 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
The self-proclaimed hillbillies and misanthropes of Northland, NZ, release their debut album Songs From An Endless Night. On first listen, you could be forgiven into thinking that The Advocators hail from the deep southern US terrains of the Mississippi or grew up playing on the Tennessee bar scene.
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Living Clipboards - Album Review: All Over Tawa
13 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Coming together through the vibrant Wellington indie scene, alternative rock band Living Clipboards' Mark Williams, Denise Roughan, and Jim Abbott are already well known from acts such as The 3Ds, MarineVille, and Ghost Club. The basic guitar, bass, and drum tracks were recorded over one weekend in the band's rehearsal space.
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Casual Healing - Album Review: Driftwood
13 May 2024 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
When you fly Air New Zealand, there may be a chance you have heard one of the latest singles Mauri Tau from Wellington based musician Nikau Te Huki, who goes under the name of Casual Healing on his 12-track solo project titled Driftwood. This is one of two tracks released from the self-produced debut album.
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Triggar Happy - EP Review: Testify
13 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Triggar Happy is the reinvention of Regan Tucker, from traditional Country artist into an exponent of the Country/Hip-Hop scene, under the guidance of Auckland's Royalty Music Group. Growing up on a farm in Otorohanga exposed a young Triggar Happy to the Country stylings of artists like Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and George Strait.
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Samantha Josephine - Album Review: Your Unbelievable Head
12 May 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Samantha Josephine is an artist for true lovers of the lo-fi, bedroom mumbling, punk-inspired indie internet underground. The alternative singer-songwriter blends elements of punk and rock with phrases that rhyme and convey almost nothing concise and everything feeling.
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Amiria Grenell - Gig Review: Amiria Grenell @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 10/05/2024
12 May 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Amiria Grenell is a name synonymous with Folk music here in New Zealand. With a series of beautiful albums under her belt, Christchurch locals were treated to an incredible live performance which celebrated Amiria's fourth album The Winter Light, and her new single The Ghost In You.
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Ant Tarrant - Album Review: Beachtopia
10 May 2024 // A review by djnamehere
I assumed that the album Beachtopia by Ant Tarrant would have a tropical pop feel to it, and this was pretty accurate. This seemed to be an upbeat and love themed EP.
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Ardon England - EP Review: That's Camp
09 May 2024 // A review by djnamehere
As you can probably tell, That's Camp by Ardon England would most appeal to LBGTQA+ listeners. This is a six track EP.
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Floyd Marsden - Album Review: The Disco Lizards
09 May 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
After two years in the making, Floyd Marsden releases her latest ten track album, The Disco Lizards. Although listed as alternative rock, this album features so much more than just that.
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Tower Of Flints - Gig Review: Tower of Flints @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 4/05/2024
08 May 2024 // A review by Rob Harbers
On a Saturday night with many entertainment options for the people of Te-Matau-A-Maui, a select audience was treated to a triple bill of quality artists at the sweet little spot that is the Paisley Stage.First up was Te Whanganui-a-Tara’s Spinning Lights, making their East Coast debut.
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Beat Rhythm Fashion - Album Review: Critical Mass
07 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Beginning life in Wellington's post-punk Terrace scene of the late 70's and early 80's, Beat Rhythm Fashion went on an ostensibly indefinite hiatus in the mid 80's, only to reform 35 years later. Brothers Nino and Dan Birch had been the cornerstone of the trio in its heyday, but sadly Dan passed in 2011.
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Elidi - Gig Review: Elidi @ Churchills Tavern, Christchurch - 4/05/2024
07 May 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Churchills Tavern was the place to be on Saturday night, where Christchurch prog metal heavyweights Elidi held their fundraiser for their latest album. Elidi have recently made a big name for themselves, touring the country with well-known metal acts including Pull Down The Sun and Crooked Royals.
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Tess Liautaud - Gig Review: Tess Liautaud @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 4/05/2024
06 May 2024 // A review by LouClementine
Otautahi-based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Tess Liautaud took to the stage of the Wine Cellar, a basement venue, on Karangahape Road, on an autumnal Saturday evening. Tonight was the Tamaki Makaurau show of her nine-date nationwide Gold Digger tour.
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Libbianski - Album Review: Useless Splendour
03 May 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Unless you haven’t been paying attention, there’s a shoegaze revival occurring right now in Wellington. Many new bands are defining themselves as part of this subgenre of rock; namedropping band names such as Slow Dive, My Bloody Valentine or Swervedriver and leaning into the tenants of the tradition such as utilising effect pedals to create a lush, heavily affected guitar sound, and of course, looking at their shoes whilst playing (where the name of the style originates).
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TheSlacks - Album Review: Information Ape
02 May 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Scott Armstrong (vocals, rhythm guitar), Mark Armstrong (vocals, lead guitar), Blake Gibson (vocals, bass guitar) and Zane Greig (vocals, drums) are collectively TheSlacks, Taranaki's answer to the question "What do you reckon a cross between Johnny Cash and Sublime would sound like?" Information Ape is their new album, their third after 2003's Suppressed Inventions and 2014's Welcome To The Rolling Vibe, and they're embarking on a 4-date tour to coincide with New Zealand Music Month to support it, their mums think they play Folk-Rock, they themselves think they play Country-Ska, but apparently they actually play Adult Contemporary Pop...
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Lee Mvtthews - Gig Review: Lee Mvtthews @ Christchurch Town Hall, Christchurch - 27/04/2024
02 May 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Christchurch residents were treated to a huge night of EDM at the stunning Christchurch Town Hall on Saturday night as Lee Mvtthews performed the Christchurch leg of their tour, bringing along with the award-winning producers, was a hand selected bunch of talented artists which made a truly amazing show. Leading the charge for the support acts was Messie, an up and comer with a huge following.
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Bad Schematics - Album Review: C O L L I D E
01 May 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Manawatu might seem one of the unlikeliest places to find some damn good alt-rock pop punk, even more so when you add elements of metal, but stranger things have happened and I’m here to tell you it’s true, and their name is Bad Schematics. Not a name that may be familiar (yet), but they are a pretty determined bunch, having released their debut EP, Keep Your Gods in a flurry of a few short weeks, in 2023.
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Just One Fix - EP Review: Submit or Death
30 Apr 2024 // A review by Kris Raven
Auckland's premier thrash lords Just One Fix make a triumphant return with new EP Submit or Death. Having warmed their fanbases palate with two singles, the true to form and heavy hitting Your Own God Now and Gods and Devils.
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Levity Beet - Album Review: Levity Beet And The Aotearoa All Stars
30 Apr 2024 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Golden Bay's multiple award-winning children’s music artist Levity Beet is well regarded in his field. Three times APRA Children's Song of the Year winner and two times Tui Children's Musician of the Year, he knows a thing or two about producing heartwarming, entertaining and amusing music which captures the hearts and minds of our children.
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Moider Mother - Album Review: Miracle Healing Crusade
28 Apr 2024 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
"Take a pinch of Raincoats, add a tablespoon of early Swans, sauté in the first Stooges album and add half a brick. Put it in a sock.
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Ha the Unclear - Album Review: A Kingdom In A Cul-De-Sac
25 Apr 2024 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
If I could choose one word to sum up Ha The Unclear’s recent album release I would have to go with the word “inspiring”. And if I could throw a few more together in a kind of haphazard stream-of-consciousness way, I would add that A Kingdom In A Cul-De-Sac is oozing with creativity, quirky humour, plumbing the depths of musical understanding, and coming back up to the surface with a gift - permission to be one’s authentic self.
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The Feel Good Service - EP Review: DirtyFunknSoul
24 Apr 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Funk, soul and disco music seem to be so defined by their blueprints of the 1970's and 1980's that almost any serious modern attempt at them risks sounding nostalgic. As if these genres lived and died in history, and now we may only pay tribute to them – rather than contribute any further.
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Alexander Guy - Album Review: Last Call At The South Sea Hotel
24 Apr 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
Wellingtonian singer-songwriter Alexander Guy releases his new album Last Call At The South Sea Hotel on April 18th. The first official studio album from Alexander Guy, who has previously released a live album Vogelmorn Bowling Club in 2023.
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Banana Mundo - EP Review: Intercultural Appreciation Day
23 Apr 2024 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Banana Mundo are a collective band situated in New Plymouth (West Coast NZ) and hailing from various places around the world. The band comprises members from Argentina, Uruguay, Venezuela, France, Switzerland and New Zealand.
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Aro - Album Review: He Rakau, He Ngarara
21 Apr 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Tamaki Makaurau based husband & wife duo Charles & Emily Looker, otherwise known as Aro, escape genre boundaries on their fourth body of work, He Rakau, He Ngarara. Aro's waiata draw from country and folk, jazz, and shades of haka, making for a collection that often purposefully creates sonic whiplash in a stunning exploration of sound and kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga.
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Parasitic Infestation - EP Review: Promo EP
21 Apr 2024 // A review by River Tucker
If you’re looking for some great metal music, you’ve come to the right place. Hardworking up-and-coming band Parasitic Infestation, who specialise in Brutal Death Metal, are set to make your ears bleed with their latest promo release, consisting of three deliciously heavy songs (plus bonus tracks) that I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
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Dragon - Gig Review: Dragon @ Town Hall, Christchurch - 18/04/2024
20 Apr 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Dragon is a name long since synonymous with rock & roll in Australasia, and the band is currently enjoying an 8-date tour in celebration of their 50th anniversary. Starting April 12th in Invercargill, the tour will work its way slowly up the country, to wind up in Auckland on April 27th.
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Sin City - Album Review: Another Round
19 Apr 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Sin City’s Another Round is new music for audiences who know that music’s best days are behind us. From first note to rock n’ roll lifestyle, Kiwi songwriting duo Nick Armstrong and Jack Beesley with Aussie musicians Christopher Hockey, Andrew Blackman, and Cameron Hicks embody a bygone era, channeling those influences into original songs that cozy comfortably alongside your nostalgic country, soul and rock 'n' roll bangers of the 1960's and 70's.
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Repairs - Album Review: Disappointing Sequel
19 Apr 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
The following might be words that relate to the sound and feel of Disappointing Sequel, the second album from Repairs, out this week: tension, discordant contrarianism, tearing metal, nosebleeds, morse code, ensemble yelling, guitar feedback, aneurisms, anarchy machines, absolute defiance ….In case you didn’t know there’s a revolution coming and its being led out by Martin Phillips, James Milne and Nicola Edwards.
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Where's Jai - EP Review: Avenues
18 Apr 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
For some artists, first time is not the charm. Debuts are often messy and lacking vision as the group or artist continue to figure out their sound and their way in the industry.
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Sounds Escape - Album Review: Midnight Drive
18 Apr 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Sounds Escape is the solo project of Logan Wedgwood, an Auckland based drummer, guitarist, and composer. Sounds Escape started coming into being during lockdown, and having released two EPs since 2022, Midnight Drive is his debut full length album.
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Sam Cullen - EP Review: Love Again
18 Apr 2024 // A review by Paul Goddard
When I first heard this brand-new EP from Invercargill native Sam Cullen, I was immediately reminded of another famous Sam who has an equally famous last name (Fender).The four songs on the Love Again EP have a familiarity and similarity with roots going back to Springsteen and the well-trodden stadium rock road but there is also something in the songs on Love Again that could only be grown in New Zealand.
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AOSI - EP Review: Prima Materia
18 Apr 2024 // A review by Liam Davis
You may never call AOSI boring.I listened to this EP: Prima Materia (Latin: First Matter) in my car while on a lunch break and I can say it's the most thought provoking, interesting and creative effort I've seen come out of the NZ music scene this far.
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Swamp Rat Collective - EP Review: Flash Sneakers
16 Apr 2024 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
The Swamp Rat Collective is a dirty, matted tangle of influences from the guitar music of the era between the late 80's and early 2000's. The project is a collaboration between Paul Cowsill (rhythm and bass guitar) and Adam Gatt (lead guitar) that crosses the ocean, comprising parties from Auckland, New Zealand as well as London, UK.
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Bach Musica NZ - Gig Review: Bach Musica NZ @ Auckland Town Hall - 14/04/2024
15 Apr 2024 // A review by LouClementine
The historic setting of Auckland Town Hall, with its long and celebrated history of live music, was the ideal location for Bach Musica NZ. This was the first of a program of performances taking place throughout the year and bringing to the stage some favourite classical music pieces.
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Chasing Titans - Album Review: Infinite Paradox
15 Apr 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Infinite Paradox, is the latest release from Auckland 3-piece Chasing Titans. The 10- track album makes this the second instalment following the release of their debut EP late 2022, when listening to the EP, this album becomes a story of evolution in the band's sound and presence.
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Luke Buda - Gig Review: Luke Buda @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 13/04/2024
15 Apr 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Christchurch locals were treated to a great evening of outstanding music, played by some great musicians including The Phoenix Foundation founding member Luke Buda, at Space Academy on Saturday night. Space Academy is known for being a small intimate bar, which set the tone perfectly for the night and music ahead.
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disposable - Album Review: heaven
14 Apr 2024 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
As I prepared to review disposable’s debut project heaven, I knew I would be embarking on a journey. I set myself up in an armchair, with a sunbeam warming my eyelids as I lay back and surrendered myself to the world that disposable crafted - feeling as nervous as I was excited.
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Seafog - Album Review: Slow Death
14 Apr 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Port Chalmers four-piece Seafog have been with us for a few years now, pumping out some very well received doses of cross genre guitar type stuff — Raise Your Skinny Fist (2016), Dig It On Up (2017) and Animal Lovers (2019) — that each seemed to be spawned from a world none other than Port Chalmers itself. This week sees the release a further full album from the same place, Slow Death.
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Guilt Grip - Guilt Grip - Album Review: Guilt Grip
12 Apr 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Tamaki Makaurau Auckland four-piece Guilt Grip present here, available in the unconventional medium of cassette tape, their first full length self-titled album. It’s an abrasive listen that suits the surreal collaged artwork by Lia Boscu, and one that proudly and loudly celebrates the band’s passions and values.
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Electric Tapestry - Gig Review: Electric Tapestry @ Valhalla, Wellington - 11/04/2024
12 Apr 2024 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
I have seen Electric Tapestry before, last year in December at Meow and I believe the Valhalla venue autographs the metal/rock band’s strength just a bit more. The scenery of the music is not necessarily that deep for those who enjoy the quiver of rock, but it was something I noticed.
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Steffany Beck - EP Review: Pillars
11 Apr 2024 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi based country pop singer-songwriter Steffany Beck is back with her EP Pillars, out today, 12th April, 2024. Her latest body of work since 2019’s Blue Eyed Girl, Beck has spent the last few years working hard, honing her craft and making waves in the Christchurch music scene.
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Ghost Score - EP Review: 00
11 Apr 2024 // A review by djnamehere
I found Ghost Score's new EP 00 to have a variety of sound. Even though, this was a four track EP, some of the tracks sounded quite different to each other.
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Becca Caffyn - EP Review: Hallways
10 Apr 2024 // A review by Daniel Jones
Two years on from her debut releases Stair Kids and Replacement Blonde, Becca Caffyn is back with a new mini EP Hallways. Written at Depot Sound, during a series of sessions facilitated through NZ On Air’s New Music Development initiative, Hallways was produced by Becca Caffyn and Noah Page.
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Chasin Wolves - Chasin Wolves - Album Review: Chasin Wolves
04 Apr 2024 // A review by Chris Chick
If you like your music hard, fast and in your face, this is the album for you. I had to bath myself three times after the first listen just to calm down my ever-increasing dopamine hit.
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Matt Hay - Album Review: Dog and Pony Show
02 Apr 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Matt Hay may not be a name you’re familiar with yet. Well, better late than never.
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Stonehurst - Album Review: Wild Visions
01 Apr 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Christchurch resident band Stonehurst are certainly no strangers in the ever-evolving music scene we have here in New Zealand, and with their latest six-track album Wild Visions, they prove why they are our country’s finest!Stonehurst’s, current line-up is Tim Hunt, Dave Hunt, Rhyz Bell, and Jay Arthur, and with their song writing, and musicianship, they show us why… their music is hard hitting, catchy, well written, and delivered.
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Stretch to Mould - Gig Review: Stretch To Mould @ The Welsh Dragon, Wellington - 30/03/2024
31 Mar 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
The building once described as Wellington’s ‘fondest inconvenient convenience in the land’ by one commentator, The Welsh Dragon Bar (and Scorpio’s Restaurant) has been known as a few different things throughout it’s nearly 100-year history. From the original public convenience for Wellingtonians and its tramways employees and passengers when it was first built in 1928, to a theatre prop space, tea house and café, and for many years now, a unique but tiny Taj Mahal looking music venue, in the middle of the road on Cambridge Terrace.
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Midwave Breaks - EP Review: Standing Inside Out
24 Mar 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Midwave Breaks. The Tauranga duo that has what feels like a boundless creative energy, while also fitting in an impressive touring schedule that is here, there and everywhere.
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Cian - EP Review: All New Ways Of Life
22 Mar 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
All New Ways Of Life is the introductory offering from Wellington-based Hardcore Metal outfit, Cian. Connor Matthew (Guitar, Vocals), Navah Chapman (Guitar), Dylan Jonkers (Bass, Vocals) and Zed Ramsay (Drums) have delivered four raging slabs of blistering-hot Metal on this EP and are hungry to take over the world with their punishing, riff-laden sound.
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Jackie Bristow - Jackie B And The Mini Band - EP Review: Summertime
22 Mar 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Jackie Bristow has had a career on a continuous upward trajectory, since being discovered at the tender age of eight, in her primary school's choir. In the time since then, she relocated to Australia, and then on to Nashville in the USA, regarded by many as that nation's "music capital".
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Fraser Ross - Album Review: Thunderhead
21 Mar 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Thunderhead is the indie-folk new album release from Otautahi singer-songwriter Fraser Ross, and it is wonderfully expansive, and beautifully attentive. The storytelling is intricate, and the sound is cohesive, transporting you to rolling hills and small corner street dairies in places that feel like the middle of nowhere.
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The Knids - Album Review: Monochrome
18 Mar 2024 // A review by Deprivacy
Monochrome is the fourth album by Tauranga 3-piece The Knids. The Knids consists of, Michael Baxter, Corinne Rutherford, and Chris Shennen, three musicians with a heap of talent, which you can hear throughout this Album.
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Gig Review: Homegrown 2024 @ Wellington Waterfront - 16/03/2024 Part 2
18 Mar 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
With nothing of last night's rainstorm in sight except puddles in the asphalt, the sun warmed the air to counter the day's cold breeze. There was plenty of talk of a cold snap on the way, but I was confident my tee and hoodie combo would suffice.
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18 Mar 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
With nothing of last night's rainstorm in sight except puddles in the asphalt, the sun warmed the air to counter the day's cold breeze. There was plenty of talk of a cold snap on the way, but I was confident my tee and hoodie combo would suffice.
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Gig Review: Homegrown 2024 @ Wellington Waterfront - 16/03/2024 Part 1
17 Mar 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
By some miracle, Homegrown 2024 hits a home run and finds Welly on an infamous good day this Saturday, 16th March. That sun is blazing down as the fairground rides and colourful outfits roll out onto the waterfront.
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17 Mar 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
By some miracle, Homegrown 2024 hits a home run and finds Welly on an infamous good day this Saturday, 16th March. That sun is blazing down as the fairground rides and colourful outfits roll out onto the waterfront.
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DARTZ - Album Review: Dangerous Day To Be A Cold One
14 Mar 2024 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
From recent years and escapades, it’s fair to say that DARTZ have come a long way from writing about their disdain for scorched almonds and the habitability of a dingey Riddiford Street flat. The Band from Wellington, New Zealand have secured themselves as a shared-household name and champions for the plight of the everyday kiwi with songs like Steal from the Supermarket hammering home nationwide frustration over a duopoly ripping New Zealanders off for basic essentials in exchange for record profits, and perhaps, most memorably, the hilariously justified mockery of a certain South Auckland-based church head drilling his flock for tithings to fund his Tesla S Series in Pray for Prey.
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Coast Arcade - Gig Review: Coast Arcade @ The Tuning Fork - 09/03/24
14 Mar 2024 // A review by Chloe Tredgett
Coast Arcade put on an incredible show on Saturday night with openers Double Parked and Fan Club.The eager crowd arrived early with a long line outside before the doors opened.
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Amiria Grenell - Album Review: The Winter Light
12 Mar 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Otautahi folk singer Amiria Grenell boasts many accolades to her name, and her new album The Winter Light will surely add to the pack. This is a cozy collection of classic folk songs, grounded in nature, family and the endless search for true peace.
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PHNX - EP Review: PHNX
11 Mar 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Aotearoa, look out for a rising star on the horizon.Under his stage name PHNX, 18-year-old singer-songwriter and producer Phoenix Simpson has released his self-titled debut EP and it’s a gem.
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PRINS - Gig Review PRINS @ James Hay Theatre, Christchurch - 09/03/2024
10 Mar 2024 // A review by djnamehere
I last saw PRINS at a nightclub. The nightclub crowd was the typical demographic that I party with.
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The Flaming Bridges - Album Review: Fear and Loathing in Oamaru
07 Mar 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Authentic, pared back, and captivating, The Flaming Bridges’ new album Fear and Loathing in Oamaru in an incredibly captivating collection of folk songs and stories. This album expertly flips between songs where the focal point of the songs are simply the voice of Matthew P Schobs and layered guitar and complex instrumental landscapes.
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Lava - EP Review: Lava
29 Feb 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
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Ersha Island - EP Review: Back To Our Roots
29 Feb 2024 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Classically trained duo Dani and Tee are Ersha Island, Auckland based musicians with a contemporary style which has been described as indie-folk. They began their journey in Guangzhou, China on Ersha Island, hence their name.
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Ben Ruegg - EP Review: Ben Ruegg
29 Feb 2024 // A review by Steve Shyu
Ben Ruegg is one of the most hard-working people I personally know. He's a Muzic.
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The Mons Whaler - Album Review: Hold My Gun
29 Feb 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The Mons Whaler were formed in the Taranaki area, by Hemi Coates (vocals & guitar), Andre Peri (percussion & backing vocals) and Phil Hoskin (bass, guitar backing vocals). Multi-talented Courtnay Low joined forces with them, on keys, backing vocals and lead guitar.
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Boardgames for Blondes - Album Review: On The Run
25 Feb 2024 // A review by djnamehere
I found the band Boardgames for Blondes to be a natural sounding band, as opposed to modern day electronic music. The majority of the lyrics are actually understandable, unlike some other modern pop songs out there.
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Bird Machine - EP Review: Hey Human
25 Feb 2024 // A review by Danica Bryant
Their name is animal, but their music is undeniably human. Bird Machine's latest release is a five-track collection of shoegazing pop-rock, composed by husband and wife duo Luke and Jenna Grbin.
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Fool of Stars - Album Review: The Everything Under Your Feet
16 Feb 2024 // A review by Catherine Bullock
A perfect introduction, Acrylic Monday is a lyrical, mostly instrumental beginning to a killer new album, The Everything Under Your Feet by Fool of Stars. The opening song showcases each part of the band, the lyrical guitar, sparkling drums and synthesisers, and a taste of the raw vocals yet to come on the album.
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The Transits - Album Review: The Transits
13 Feb 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
The Transits self-titled debut album is a result of 3 talented musicians who sucker punch with passion, creativity and consistency, and that’s just the opening track. With members across two countries (Dom Antelme (vocals, bass) and Tyrone Smith (drums) from Auckland, New Zealand and Ryan Lunn (vocals, guitars, synths) in Durban, South Africa, respectively.
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Empyrvore - Album Review: Nadir: Empyrean
12 Feb 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Nadir: Empyrean is the latest release from Wellington-based Empyrvore, and their first full length album. It has been a labour of love for its two creators, Jared and Mike, who followed the complete DIY path for recording, mixing, mastering, and releasing...
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Tower Of Flints - Album Review: Live at Paisley Stage
12 Feb 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
The true proof that any band is worthy of praise is the live act. Recalling my own introduction to certain musicians, the quality of a live album would often be the deciding factor of whether I would continue to follow a band.
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Grant Haua - Album Review: Mana Blues
12 Feb 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
If you’re not paying close attention, it would be easy to think Grant Haua has a bout of the blues. His new 2023 album Mana Blues follows closely behind his 2022 release Ora Blues at the Chapel Vol.
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Ravenhall - Album Review: Brother
09 Feb 2024 // A review by Chris Chick
Listening to music should evoke an emotional response, to evoke a response that is both positive and uplifting is very difficult to do. I am sure those at the top of their game can argue that it is a talent that comes easy to them, but all the unseen variables that come into play through just living, making friends, going through the highs and lows of life.
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Oliver Birch - Album Review: To Remember
08 Feb 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Auckland based musician, Oliver Birch is back with his second unveiling, the ten tracked album, To Remember. Another slab of self-written, produced, mixed and performed by Oliver Birch and confirmed as a concept album about the coming of age, and the trials and tribulations that come along with it.
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Mr Sterile Assembly - Album Review: HELLo
06 Feb 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
New Zealand's globetrotting punk rockers, drummer/vocalist Kieran Monaghan and bassist/vocalist Chrissie Butler, release their sixth and final album twenty-two years, two months, and five days from the date of their inaugural show.In 2001, Mr Sterile Assembly was an unlikely three-piece; guitar, drums, and trombone.
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Plagueditch - EP Review: Save Me A Spot In Hell
06 Feb 2024 // A review by Liam Davis
New Zealand is having a hard time being a peaceful picturesque country when we keep exporting some of the most genre-bending, crushing metal to date; and Plagueditch dropping their debut release; does not help this -- Mind you this is an amazing problem to have.Save Me A Spot In Hell blends the brutality of dark rock and the percussive precision of industrial metal- for an amalgamation of evil and foot, tapping, headbanging appreciated goodness.
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Daniel Ashcroft - Album Review: Chica De La Bum
05 Feb 2024 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Daniel Ashcroft is a multi-instrumentalist, producer and composer based in Feilding.His musical goals are simple: He wants to play every instrument he possibly can, explore every genre and collaborate with as many singers as possible.
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IVY - Gig Review: Ivy @ Darkroom, Christchurch - 02/02/2024
03 Feb 2024 // A review by djnamehere
Ivy Christchurch show opened with Ragweed and closed with a DJ duo playing house tracks. Ragweed was more of a head bangy set.
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Festival Review: Auckland Folk Festival 2024
02 Feb 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Auckland Folk Festival 2024 overcame the fallout from the Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods of 2023 to deliver a successful marriage of folk and frivolity. Featuring five stages and a variety of international and local folky favourites from 9am - God's hour, the all ages and stages crowds had more than enough to entertain.
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02 Feb 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Auckland Folk Festival 2024 overcame the fallout from the Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods of 2023 to deliver a successful marriage of folk and frivolity. Featuring five stages and a variety of international and local folky favourites from 9am - God's hour, the all ages and stages crowds had more than enough to entertain.
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The Boondocks - EP Review: The Boondocks
01 Feb 2024 // A review by Brad Miller
Reviewers can sometimes fall into the trap of being either overly critical or offering nothing but cringe worthy praise when writing. When it comes to this latest effort put forward by Auckland two-piece (Scott Parker, vocals and bass and Branden Pritchard, drums) The Boondocks, the high praise is well deserved and genuine.
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Marmalade Skies - Album Review: When I Wake Up
01 Feb 2024 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
There’s a gleaming warmth from local Kiwi band Marmalade Skies and their debut Album When I Wake Up. Set to be released on February 2, 2024, right in the middle of summer, the band will head for a tour around the North Island.
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Gig Review: Ministry of Folk @ Auckland Folk Festival - 26/01/2024
30 Jan 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
The Ministry of Folk brought a smorgasbord of top NZ talent to the 51st Auckland Folk Festival. Known as the “alternative folk club”, The Ministry platformed a variety of folk-infused singer-songwriters.
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30 Jan 2024 // A review by Maggie Cocco
The Ministry of Folk brought a smorgasbord of top NZ talent to the 51st Auckland Folk Festival. Known as the “alternative folk club”, The Ministry platformed a variety of folk-infused singer-songwriters.
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Metanoia - EP Review: Green Peaceful Lake
30 Jan 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
During the pandemic some said that isolation, the loss of communal music experiences – and perhaps for some, the chance for reflection – brought about a growth in the supply and demand for ambient music. How else to relieve existential dread and balm the soul?
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Mister Unit - EP Review: There's Always Someone With A Bigger Schtick
30 Jan 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Mister Unit’s third offering, after one EP and an album, is a six strong EP filled with inventive riffs, clever lyrics and catchy melodies. Oh yes, and lots of great guitar solos.
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Pale Flag - EP Review: Imperium
29 Jan 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
With a lot of misconceptions about deathcore, it’d be easy to lump Pale Flag into “one of those bands” based on the sub-genre alone. Luckily, I love metal in the most extreme and Pale Flag just so happen to create deathcore of the finest, which makes it even better to enjoy.
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Mister Unit - Gig Review: Mister Unit @ Valhalla, Wellington - 18/01/2024
21 Jan 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
An emotional night for many, Valhalla hosted Mister Unit's album release party on Thursday with a three-band line-up. Emotional because the conclusion of work on a recording always is, whether or not it is a celebration, especially so on the dense, powerful and ultimately nostalgic six track album by the headlining band; but more than usual perhaps, because one member who featured on the album was no longer with us.
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Dave and The Dirty Humans - Gig Review: Dave and the Dirty Humans @ Fringe Bar, Wellington - 13/01/2024
15 Jan 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Dave and The Dirty Humans are not a band that fades in memory next to the many other current Wellington bands the capital scene appears to be teeming with. Not only is the name a mouthful, but their live shows are memorable, and their songs seem familiar by drawing heavily from the near past (read, the 90’s and 2000’s).
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Samuel Keen - Album Review: Metamorphosis
07 Jan 2024 // A review by Kerry MB
Samuel Keen is a Christchurch based singer/songwriter that has been on the scene for a few years now, creating a musical path that is solely his own. With his fingers in all the pies, he is also part of Christchurch bands, The Snake Behaviour and Hecates Cult that lies somewhere between hard rock and heavy metal.
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Lung - Lung - Album Review: Lung Cancer
07 Jan 2024 // A review by Nicholas Clark
The legendary 90’s grunge band Lung recently returned to playing live gigs after a hiatus from 1994 until the 2010’s. In 2022 they released Bad Acid Soundtracks II which offered newer versions from their earlier records (like 3 Heads on a Plate and Cactii) but featured the impressive drumming from frontman Dave White’s son, Zak.
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HOIHOI - EP Review: Tahitahi
06 Jan 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Whatever defines post-punk in our times — post-Trump, post-covid, post-war, pre-war, pre-Trump — perhaps isn’t too clear to most of us, as long as it’s loud, raucous, and anti-whatever the current thing is. Christchurch band HOIHOI are working on a current version of that definition for us with their new EP Tahitahi – four tracks of guitars and vocals, half in Te Reo Maori and half in English, two thirds an uprising, one third introspection.
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06 Jan 2024 // A review by Michael Durand
Whatever defines post-punk in our times — post-Trump, post-covid, post-war, pre-war, pre-Trump — perhaps isn’t too clear to most of us, as long as it’s loud, raucous, and anti-whatever the current thing is. Christchurch band HOIHOI are working on a current version of that definition for us with their new EP Tahitahi – four tracks of guitars and vocals, half in Te Reo Maori and half in English, two thirds an uprising, one third introspection.
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David Edwards - Album Review: Electric (Yang) / Acoustic (Yin) - 2CD Compilation 1998-2023
30 Dec 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Fiffdimension is the name under which Dave Edwards records and performs, having released the debut album Scratched Surface back in 1998. He's certainly been busy since then; I think I counted around 40 releases listed on his website.
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King Cruel - EP Review: Creeper
22 Dec 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Creeper is the debut EP from King Cruel, a 'Psychedelic Stoner Doom Metal' trio from Auckland. According to Encyclopaedia Metallum, the line up consists of Evan Cooper on drums, Josh Hodgson on guitars, and Luke Oram on vocals.
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Eden Mulholland - Album Review: A Bee Might Bite My Nose
21 Dec 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Funny, Kooky and gently melancholic at times is one description of respected Australasian composer, songwriter and collaborator Eden Mulholland (Ngati Porou). His most recent release is channeled by a very cute teddy bear.
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Yann Le Dorré - Album Review: The Circus is Closed
19 Dec 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
“We are Sex Bob-Omb and we're here to make you think about death and get sad and stuff!” - Scott Pilgrim vs.
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Subset BC - Album Review: Subset BC
16 Dec 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Here’s an interesting little thing from Gisborne. A funky little band with three bass players.
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Electric Tapestry - Gig Review: Electric Tapestry @ Meow, Wellington - 14/12/2023
15 Dec 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Electric Tapestry takes traditional rock and adds a revitalised soundwave of numerous styles. What I first observed was how well-bound the band was on stage as they were equipped and prepared to showcase their harmonies, rhythms and styles.
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Albi & The Wolves - Album Review: Light After The Dark
15 Dec 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Light After The Dark with its baker’s dozen of tunes is an infectious album that will uplift your soul. Award-winning indie folk stars Albi & the Wolves have created something of a wandering marching band for their third studio album which has made its way onto vinyl – one tick off their hopefully ambitious bucket list!
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Fool's Lagoon - EP Review: Fool Me Twice
14 Dec 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
We are so lucky to have yet another New Zealand band sound like molecules in a jar that bounces pieces of pop, rock and funk all into one. Fool's Lagoon has a new EP called Fool Me Twice which was recorded in the simplicity of a family home in Eastern Bays, Auckland.
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Hecates Cult - Album Review: The Path Of Night
14 Dec 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The Path Of Night by Otautahi Christchurch band Hecate's Cult was recorded, mixed, and mastered by the utter weapons at Audioganic Studios, and it's pretty easy to see why so many local artists are queuing up to have them do the same. Hecate's Cult are a bare-bones three piece, with no backing vocals, backing tracks, samples, or anything other than the sounds produced by drums, a bass, a guitar, and a voice.
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Bevan Mical - Album Review: Division & Difference
12 Dec 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Since 2017 Bevan Mical has been busy. Hailing from the small Waikato town of Turua, he’s now onto his fourth full-length album, this one entitled Division & Difference.
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Gig Review: The Best of Come Together @ The Civic Theatre, Auckland - 9/12/2023
12 Dec 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Get your heads around this line-up: The singers: Jon Toogood, (lead and backing vocals), Julia Deans (lead and backing vocals), Dianne Swann (lead and backing vocals and occasional guitar), Samuel Flynn Scott (vocals and guitar), James Milne (lead and backing vocals), Milan Borich (Mick vocals) The players: Jol Mulholland (guitars and vocals), Brett Adams (lead guitar and vocals), Mike Hall (bass), Matthias Jordan (keyboards), Alastair Deverick (drums), Finn Scholes (trumpet, clarinet and percussion), Nick Atkinson (sax and percussion). Stopped spinning?
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12 Dec 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Get your heads around this line-up: The singers: Jon Toogood, (lead and backing vocals), Julia Deans (lead and backing vocals), Dianne Swann (lead and backing vocals and occasional guitar), Samuel Flynn Scott (vocals and guitar), James Milne (lead and backing vocals), Milan Borich (Mick vocals) The players: Jol Mulholland (guitars and vocals), Brett Adams (lead guitar and vocals), Mike Hall (bass), Matthias Jordan (keyboards), Alastair Deverick (drums), Finn Scholes (trumpet, clarinet and percussion), Nick Atkinson (sax and percussion). Stopped spinning?
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The Death Spell - Album Review: The Death Spell
12 Dec 2023 // A review by River Tucker
There’s a real whisky drinking, bare knuckle fighting edge to the self-titled debut album by The Death Spell, kicking off with Nail You Higher Than Before. Obviously, song lyrics are in your face on this track, especially for any Christians in the audience, but you couldn’t ask for a better intro to the musical style of this Auckland-based band.
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Zed - Gig Review: Zed @ The Church, Christchurch - 8/12/2023
11 Dec 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Zed are back! 23 years after the release of their triple-platinum, number one debut album Silencer, they have finally returned, after a couple of teaser reunions over the years.
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Mermaidens - Gig Review: Mermaidens @ The Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 8/12/2023
11 Dec 2023 // A review by Samantha Cheong
With the theme of sourness scattered throughout their self-titled album, Mermaidens left the same exciting taste in our mouths during their performance of their record at The Hollywood Avondale. Their music pops with a fizzing sort of sourness from confectionery, one which demands to be felt, is addictive and elicits a visceral reaction.
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Peyton Morete - Album Review: The End To The Beginning
11 Dec 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Poneke artist Peyton Morete goes big with her self-produced album The End to the Beginning, a high-concept collection following the ups and downs of a life and the cyclical nature of the world. The record encompasses a variety of genres from cinematic soundscape pieces and acoustic pop to elements of rap and R&B, all held together by Morete's charismatic vocal performance.
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Em - EP Review: Cloud City
10 Dec 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Emily Wheatcroft-Snape AKA Em is a singer songwriter, recording and mix engineer from Tamaki Makaurau. Her career thus far flaunts some serious musicality, working industriously towards her unique goals as an artist.
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Moofish - Album Review: Entropia
08 Dec 2023 // A review by djnamehere
The music that is on Moofish's newest album Entropia consists of slow songs. Honestly, I couldn't really understand most of the lyrics, but that is not rare with music these days.
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A Crude Mechanical - Album Review: Discourse
08 Dec 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Shane Warbrooke doesn’t believe in lyrics, because of the risk of lyrics being hi-jacked and meanings bent to suit ideologies which he doesn’t like. Well, such ideologies which most of us don’t like, truth be known, but then again, Beethoven didn’t write lyrics, so the freedom of speech counter argument only goes so far.
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Furniss Brothers - Album Review: Drift Away
08 Dec 2023 // A review by Chris Chick
The Furniss Brothers comes to us with the 12-track album Drift Away, which is really apropos to how my mind felt whilst listening to this beauty. I am not going to lie, at one point I was so relaxed, I feared my heart had stopped.
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The Man Shamz - Album Review: I Call Myself The Man
08 Dec 2023 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
"Hip-Hop is dead."That phrase is often thrown around among modern scholars of the genre.
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Elmo Strauss - Album Review: In My Sleep
08 Dec 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Elmo Strauss began writing, recording and producing music in the format he describes as a ‘One Man Band’ since 2021, with the release of debut album Light and Dark. In My Sleep is his latest collection and is a logical follow on from the first album, in terms of the sound and the process.
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Darren Pickering Small Worlds - Album Review: Volume Two
07 Dec 2023 // A review by Maggie Cocco
Following their acclaimed debut, Volume One, Darren Pickering Small Worlds continues their investigation of the intersection between cinematic aesthetics and electronic textures within the framework of contemporary jazz. The Otautahi (Christchurch, New Zealand) based jazz quartet featuring Mitch Dwyer (guitar), Mitch Thomas (drums), Pete Fleming (bass), and Darren Pickering (piano), perform works composed by pianist Darren Pickering as well as re-imagined versions of select works.
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Curlys Jewels - Album Review: Curly Jewels
06 Dec 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's Curlys Jewels have recently dropped their full-length long player, Curlys Jewels. A staple in live music scene of Aotearoa, along with a fierce loyal Wellington fan base, Curlys have gone from strength to strength in the last few years, releasing a string of well received, radio bangers throughout the independent and mainstream waves, with every release in my view topping the last in terms of song writing, production and performance.
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Amber Carly Williams - EP Review: 21 Roses
04 Dec 2023 // A review by Lucy Gray
From starring in Pop and R&B on NZ show ‘Popstars’, to self-releasing her indie-pop EP 21 Roses, the Christchurch-based musician Amber Carly Williams has really found her feet. With her new EP 21 Roses she has completely rebranded her musical persona.
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Broke - EP Review: Douse Another Care
04 Dec 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Broke are a five-piece from Taranaki who love to jam and make great music together. What started out originally as a solo project by Hamish McDonald (lead guitar and vocals) and resulted in a self-written, recorded and produced debut album Momento Mori in 2021, eventually paved the way for the lads to make it official and start creating new music together.
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Festival Review: The Others Way @ Auckland - 01/12/2023
02 Dec 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Music venue haven that Karangahape Road is, it’s the perfect location for a festival takeover. Stopping short of closing the main street The Others Way festival seeks to fill every venue, at times simultaneously, with music.
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02 Dec 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Music venue haven that Karangahape Road is, it’s the perfect location for a festival takeover. Stopping short of closing the main street The Others Way festival seeks to fill every venue, at times simultaneously, with music.
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Troy Kingi - Gig Review: Troy Kingi & The Room Service @ San Fran, Wellington - 25/11/2023
29 Nov 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
With his seventh album unleashed upon the world, and my subsequent review following suit, it's sufficed to say that I have been thinking about Troy Kingi a lot over the past few weeks...even more so than usual.
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Demons of Noon - Album Review: Death Machine
28 Nov 2023 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
As I sat down to listen to Death Machine, and give my review to Demons of Noon’s debut album, I found myself immediately entranced, but also worried that I was in over my head. While I’m a lover of anything heavy, and I knew I was well equipped to provide my own takes on the project, I feared that a body of work of this scope would require a deep understanding of Metal and its sub-genres that I simply don’t possess, so I took it to the one place I knew would be able to provide a rich, and in-depth look into any and all things Metal: a professional kitchen at closing time.
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French For Rabbits - EP Review: In The End I Won't Be Coming Home
28 Nov 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
French For Rabbits have done it again with their 4-track EP, In The End I Won’t Be Coming Home. This chamber dream indie pop EP is not to be missed.
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Crash - Album Review: Crash
28 Nov 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Akin to their name, Crash has debuted with a bang with their release of their lost self-titled album! An underdog story right out of a movie, this album was finished in 1996, but was dropped from their label just before their release, only to now release their music today.
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The Snake Behaviour - Album Review: Youthanise
27 Nov 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Christchurch's The Snake Behaviour have been slithering around the local scene long enough to make them well-recognized live veterans. Influenced in equal measures by heavy rock, metal, and punk, TSB have been plugging away tirelessly doing the self-funded thing, and by all accounts having a whale of a time along the way.
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Mermaidens - Gig Review: Mermaidens @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 26/11/2023
27 Nov 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Space Academy is one of my favourite places and it was the perfect venue for this sold-out show. I was fortunate to arrive early enough to get one of a few seats, as it was quickly full to 120-head capacity.
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Maggie Cocco's Science for Sociopaths - Gig Review: Maggie Cocco @ Lopdell Theatre, Tititrangi - 22/11/2023
27 Nov 2023 // A review by Shade
Whatever came out of the pandemic, it stranded some amazing talent here long enough for them to enrich our musical world. Down into the Lopdell labyrinth, a buzz of age-spanning expectancy waited for two of these: Maggie Cocco and her accompanist for the tour Bonnie Schwarz who would add much more than just ‘sad cello’ to tonight’s epic cycle of piano songs.
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27 Nov 2023 // A review by Shade
Whatever came out of the pandemic, it stranded some amazing talent here long enough for them to enrich our musical world. Down into the Lopdell labyrinth, a buzz of age-spanning expectancy waited for two of these: Maggie Cocco and her accompanist for the tour Bonnie Schwarz who would add much more than just ‘sad cello’ to tonight’s epic cycle of piano songs.
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VÏKÆ - Album Review: Love Games Deluxe
26 Nov 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Auckland artist VÏKÆ never stops with her busy musical output, with her latest release Love Games Deluxe serving as another welcome entry in her catalogue. It's a project that perfectly encapsulates her brand of singable yet strange, weird yet wonderful, asking you to dance with the threat of dragging you if you resist.
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MOHI - Album Review: Elements of Aroha
26 Nov 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
MOHI is a bilingual artist, bending music and language to bear his soul. His new album Elements of Aroha circles its recurring motif of love as a force of nature, connecting people to the land in a tranquil musical journey.
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Betsy and The Reckless - Album Review: Salty
26 Nov 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Salty is the debut album of Taranaki-based quartet Betsy and The Reckless. I've seen their style described as both "a fusion of reggae and soul", and "an RnB twist on Kiwi roots", but even that doesn't completely sum up this glorious musical melting pot.
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Albi & The Wolves - Gig Review: Albi & The Wolves @ The Piano, Christchurch - 24/11/2023
26 Nov 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
This was my first time attending a show at The Piano, a beautifully appointed concert venue in Christchurch's CBD. It was also my first experience of Albi & The Wolves, so I had no real idea of what a treat of a night I was in for.
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The Phoenix Foundation - Gig Review: The Phoenix Foundation @ Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 24/11/2023
26 Nov 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
This is a first of many things. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen The Phoenix Foundation play live.
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Sanoi - Album Review: Echoes Of Home
25 Nov 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Electronica offers no escapism for me. It’s more of what I already have.
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Sam Higham - Album Review: Jam Fish
20 Nov 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
Poneke’s Sam Higham has just released his debut solo album Jam Fish. With an audacious precocity belying his mere 26 years, this one-man production threatens to smash many preconceptions, and burrow its way into your head with its multi-faceted attack, one that would fall, for want of a better position, into the arena of ‘progressive’.
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Dub Asylum - EP Review: Time & Space EP
19 Nov 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Dub Asylum is the musical alias for Peter McLennan, former member of 90's reggae-thrash-punk-ska mutants the Hallelujah Picassos. Now working solo, Peter McLennan's Dub Asylum is a musical mash-up of dub reggae, hip-hop and funk.
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Velvet Arrow - Album Review: Songs of Solitude
17 Nov 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
A Song Of Hope & Fear would normally be a contradiction in terms unless darkness prevails and light shines through, which is an appropriate metaphor for the debut album from Whangarei’s Velvet Arrow and the opening song, with Dan Stenhouse’s husky voice helping us through the night against a ghostly horror wail from Hannah Jane. After all it’s just a song to help you through the night, just the words that speak, it’s not real.
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Troy Kingi - Album Review: Time Wasters: Soundtrack to Current Day Meanderings
16 Nov 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Another year, another Troy Kingi album. With no strings attached, we can anticipate the next annual instalment into his episodic run of the 10/10/10 Series – 10 albums in 10 years, in 10 different genres.
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Jupita - EP Review: Want You Back
16 Nov 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Julia Morris is a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter hailing from Auckland, stepping out as indie-pop soloist Jupita on the debut EP Want You Back.Whilst the opening track's title Anxiety might fool you into thinking this will be a heavy moment and collection, this number is actually incredible fun.
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The Fuzzies - Album Review: Cupid
15 Nov 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
The Fuzzies are a three-piece self-described ‘Alternative pop trio’ from Auckland. Collectively Niki Maera (Mary), Kelly Michael (Tabula Rasa, Enshrine) and Andrew Maitai (Powertool Records, Joed Out) bring the momentum of considerable experience into the music on this album.
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Don McGlashan - Gig Review: Don McGlashan @ OneOneSix, Whangarei - 8/11/2023
14 Nov 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Back at my favourite musical venue up here in Whangarei tonight… OneOneSix is a community space beautifully set up for intimate shows suited to an attentive listening audience. If you live in Northland and haven’t been here yet, come join us!
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Gig Review: Atomic: Women of Rock @ The Civic, Auckland - 11/11/2023
13 Nov 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
What a feast of nostalgia we’ve had from Liberty Stage (Simone Williams) these past few years, as New Zealand’s finest have Come Together to cover the classic albums which made the soundtracks of our youth. In addition to this, there have also been special tributes like Tami Neilson’s rock ‘n roll party with Dinah Lee, just last month.
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13 Nov 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
What a feast of nostalgia we’ve had from Liberty Stage (Simone Williams) these past few years, as New Zealand’s finest have Come Together to cover the classic albums which made the soundtracks of our youth. In addition to this, there have also been special tributes like Tami Neilson’s rock ‘n roll party with Dinah Lee, just last month.
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Ebony Lamb - Gig Review: Ebony Lamb @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 10/11/2023
12 Nov 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Singer songwriter Ebony Lamb treated the tightly packed Auckland, Tamaki Makaurau crowd to a night of new music from her self-titled debut solo album. The gig was part of a seven-date Aotearoa tour which began October 27th, and finished in Paekakariki on Saturday, November 11th.
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Erny Belle - Album Review: Not Your Cupid
10 Nov 2023 // A review by CuillinHearty
Erny Belle brings us yet another stunning piece of work in the form of Not Your Cupid, Belle’s sophomore album.The album opens with Bowman, a mesmerising musical composition featuring the sitar.
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Dimmer - Album Review: Live At The Hollywood
09 Nov 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Wow, not very often that we see alive album these days, an unusual beast, but that’s we have, a 14-track monster from Dimmer, recorded from last year’s sold-out trilogy at the Hollywood Avondale. Which, if you didn’t get to go last year, you can still see on December 2nd at the Powerstation, unless, like me, you are going instead to The War on Drugs.
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Starving Millions - EP Review: VII
07 Nov 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's Starving Millions have recently released their new EP VII, their first new recorded music since 2018's VI. While I have heard and seen their name throughout Aotearoa's venues, posters and word of mouth, I have never properly listened to their music.
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SNRXG - EP Review: True Story
06 Nov 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Huntly born and raised artist SNRXG keeps the quality tracks coming with this 6-track EP True Story. Collaborating with top-notch local talent, the production on all of these tracks is mint.
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Lizard Prom - EP Review: Thanks For Everything I Had A Wonderful Time
06 Nov 2023 // A review by CuillinHearty
Lizard Prom's EP, Thanks For Everything I Had A Wonderful Time, is a captivating dive into the moody, atmospheric realm of rock music, characterised by dreamy textures and an undercurrent of aggression. With five tracks that deliver chaotic and hypnotic qualities, this EP is a noteworthy addition to the Aotearoa (New Zealand) music scene.
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Hollie Smith - Gig Review: Hollie Smith @ One One Six, Whangarei - 4/11/2023
05 Nov 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Hollie Smith made a low-key entrance to the stage for her solo and intimate evening of music in Whangarei last night. There was a relaxed and casual vibe to the sold-out show, and the crowd responded well to Hollie’s candid delivery.
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Jessica Leigh - EP Review: Lightbeam
03 Nov 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Wellington based Nelsonian, singer, songwriter and producer Jessica Leigh has recently released her third EP Lightbeam. Changing tack from her previous EP in 2021, the acoustic guitars and strings have given way to full synthpop sound with an 80's inspired vibe.
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Infinity Ritual - EP Review: II
02 Nov 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
The New Plymouth-based stoner groove metal group Infinity Ritual has put on quite the show for us here. Their new EP II is an experiment, if nothing more; a show of catchy 'metallised' Arctic Monkeys' riffs bootstrapped with addictive grooves and an ever-changing atmosphere is definitely the pinnacle of underground music in NZ.
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The Honeybee Rocket Scientists - Album Review: VITA est CIRCO
02 Nov 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
The Honeybee Rocket Scientists are a two-piece Auckland Rock n Roll band that are nothing like you’ve heard before. A seamless and unique twist on surf rock combined with a hint of electro, grunge, punk, grunge and a healthy dose of distortion and melody.
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emerson kole - EP Review: Haunted
01 Nov 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Cleverly releasing her spooky EP Haunted on Friday 13th of October, emerson kole's new five-track collection proves how well-thought-out her artistry and sound is, with a dark alternative pop sound soaked in reverb and creepy production.Haunted invokes the feeling of walking alone at night, hoping like hell you'll make it home safe.
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Dave and The Dirty Humans - Gig Review: Dave and the Dirty Humans @ The Welsh Dragon, Wellington - 27/10/2023
31 Oct 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
If you’ve attended even a handful of live music events in the capital these past two years, chances are you’ve seen or heard of the alternative heavy rock band, Dave and the Dirty Humans. They’re the kind of band you might rave about the next morning, groggily and inaccurately trying to describe their style as both heavy and funky, metallic but not really metal, direct and brutal at times but complex and harmonious the next second.
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Imperial April - Album Review: Imperial April
31 Oct 2023 // A review by Lucy Gray
The signature sound of Imperial April is a sound we’ve all been desperate for more of, since their debut in 2020. With several successful singles each year and their debut EP An April Christmas, Imperial April have teased the possibility of a longer body of work for a while.
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Junior Junior - EP Review: In the Light
30 Oct 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
The sound of Junior Junior belongs to a summer night gig in Aotearoa. The band grew their talent in Hawkes Bay and Tamaki Makaurau and with pleasure, they sound reminiscent of the Arctic Monkeys.
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Saurian - EP Review: Octopedal Rock Unit
30 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Dunedin's Saurian have just released Octopedal Rock Unit, a five-song collection of rock & roll that's fun and full of melody, but also ballsy and thunderous. Saurian released the entirely self-produced album Brooding in 2020, having formed in 2015.
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Newzerror - Album Review: Behind The Mask
30 Oct 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Newzerror is a powerhouse couple that combine atmospheric, melodic industrial metal. Formed in 2021 and originally part of Bay of Plenty metal band, Ten Tonne Terror.
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DARTZ - Gig Review: DARTZ @ Darkroom, Christchurch - 27/10/2023
28 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I'd been really looking forward to this show already, having heard a few tracks by DARTZ. I have a young bass student who keeps me updated with current Kiwi punk bands, and she'd played me a handful of tracks from The Band from Wellington, New Zealand.
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Killergrams - EP Review: Lonely Nights In A Little Town
27 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Someone walked out, and Tom Maxwell has lost his mind, in a gentle, acoustic way. Then his mind explodes in a cacophony of chaos, which might just be what it feels like, losing something that important.
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CyberManic - Album Review: Cut To The Core
25 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Cut To The Core is the debut album from Christchurch's Cybermanic, a two-piece (although currently in the throes of becoming a three-piece, with a new bassist furiously learning the bass lines) Industrial Rock/Metal band. Formed in 2019 by James Williams (vocals/guitar) and Hannes Danielsson (drums), Cybermanic spent most of 2022 preparing for and recording the album and they are about to start travelling the South Island to promote it.
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Frei - EP Review: Emergence
24 Oct 2023 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
It's not often that I hear something that I struggle to define with some sort of genre but Emergence by Frei really has me stumped. I must say, that's not a bad thing at all, in fact I totally welcome it.
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CRYSTAL - EP Review: Dead Ends
24 Oct 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Dead Ends is CRYSTAL's four track sophomore EP, and is a wonderful mix of electronic pop, indie, trap, and hints of punk. The vocals are very stylistic, moving through various digital effects including artistic autotune, and a vocoder, which creates a very interesting and distorted edge to the songs.
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D.C. Maxwell - Album Review: Lone Rider
24 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
I’ve Been Wrong, but every once in a while, someone comes along and knocks you out. Random violence is not what this is about, but D.
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Julian Temple Band - Album Review: Tunnels
23 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
What tunnels have I been hiding in? Here’s a band from Dunedin with now seven albums out and first time for me.
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Cloudy - EP Review: Raincloud
23 Oct 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Released on the 20th of October, Raincloud is the newest EP on Kiwi-Austrian artist Cloudy’s discography. Raincloud opens on the first song, On The Edge, introduces us to the lush, mellow, and wide stereo field featured on the album.
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Princess Chelsea - Gig Review: Princess Chelsea @ Neck Of The Woods, Auckland - 19/10/2023
20 Oct 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Princess Chelsea began her international Everything Is Going To Be Alright tour, at Neck of the Woods in Auckland with a full house on Thursday 19 October. Bringing her 2022 album of the same title in its entirety to the stage, with her band Jasmine Balmer, Joshua Worthington-Church, David Harris, Joe Kaptein, Kate Tindall, and Simeon Kavanagh-Vincent.
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Throng - EP Review: Decoherence
20 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
You know that thing where the letter B has a personality, or words have textures and colours? That’s called synaesthesia.
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Swallow the Rat - Album Review: South Locust
20 Oct 2023 // A review by Brad Miller
One of the things I love about this gig is that I regularly get introduced to new (to me) artists, and every now and then, there’s a standout. That’s what happened with Swallow The Rat.
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Li'l Chuck the One Man Skiffle Machine - Album Review: SO/LO
20 Oct 2023 // A review by OLDER
September 29th 2023 saw the release of David Thorpe, A.K.
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Bridges - EP Review: Twenty Something
19 Oct 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Indie-pop starlet Bridges is a creative based in Tamaki Makaurau, now debuting with the high drama of her first EP Twenty Something. Developing as an artist for several years, this project speaks perfectly to the character that the real-world Rachel Hamilton is ready to transform into as the one and only Bridges.
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Speech Act Theory - Speech Act Theory - EP Review: Speech Act Theory
18 Oct 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Auckland based alt-electronica project Speech Act Theory released their debut self-titled EP on the 29th of September. Founded in 2019, Speech Act Theory is the brain child of multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer Pete Hickman.
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Tami Neilson - Gig Review: Tami Neilson @ The Civic, Auckland - 13/10/2023
15 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s Friday night at The Civic and the vibe is rock ‘n’ roll as the immaculately costumed The Up-Doos jive on stage and launch into the Bobettes’ Mr Lee (the one before they shot him). The Up-Doos are a party band paying homage to the girl groups of the 50's and 60's.
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Beastwars - Gig Review: Reign of the Beast @ Whanganui Musicians Club, Whanganui - 13/10/2023
15 Oct 2023 // A review by River Tucker
If you're into metal music, the Musicians Club in Whanganui was the place to be last Friday night for a feast of auditory delights to satisfy even the hungriest of souls. Brought to you by Lost Art and Panhead beer, Beastwars and Shepherds Reign headlined an epic concert that was set to bring the house down on the first leg of their not-to-be-missed Reign of the Beast tour.
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Bloody Hell - Album Review: Blood Metal
13 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Bloody Hell (I mean, even the name is awesome. I love a really good band name, and 'Bloody Hell' is one of the best Metal band names I've ever heard) are from Christchurch, which as we all know, is a seething hotbed of musical talent.
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Ryan Fisherman - Album Review: Country EMO
13 Oct 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
When initially asked if I could do a review of this album, to be perfectly honest I’d never heard of Ryan Fisherman. But having had its silky charms beguiling my ears for the past few weeks, his is definitely a name I want to hear more from!
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The Mentalist Collective - Album Review: Signal Hill
13 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Here’s a great new band from Dunedin, a collective of mentalists who write and perform and presumably subscribe to mentalism, which is a kind of magic but with psychology at its core. They might play tricks on you, but it’s for a good cause.
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1 Drop Nation - Album Review: Moment In Time
12 Oct 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
The sophomore album Moment In Time is wrapped in a groovy haze as one of Aotearoa’s stellar talents, 1 Drop Nation, went further with their latest album which is electrically robust. This album arrived just after the band's self-titled debut album came out at the end of 2022.
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Beastwars - Album Review: Tyranny of Distance
11 Oct 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
One of Aotearoa's finest acts, Beastwars are set to release their 5th album Tyranny of Distance upon the world and damn, you better get excited. Their previous record, IV dropped in 2019 following on from a series of concept albums laid out by the band over the last decade.
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Levi Patel - EP Review: Jeremy Redmore & Levi Patel - Migrations
10 Oct 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Jeremy Redmore is one of the most recognizable voices in NZ music of the last decade, in part thanks to his tenure as the singer and main writer of a little local band called Midnight Youth but has since evolved into an extremely distinctive and transposed independent solo artist. Partnering with Levi Patel, one of Aotearoa’s budding composers/producers, they have crafted the Migrations EP to be a short burst of remarkably gentle and captivating exploration that will stand apart to their other works, but still demonstrate their distinctive emotional intensity.
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Bad Jelly Collective - EP Review: WESTBOUND&DOWN
10 Oct 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Bad Jelly Collective is the brainchild of 'Bad Jelly' Ben. Tucked away in his Huia road Home Studio in the Waitakere Ranges, Ben weaves his psychedelic soundscapes together with the creative forces of his team of musical mates.
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Fortress Europe - Album Review: Old World
10 Oct 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Have you ever been torn between listening to Mozart or Periphery? Does Epica have too much of that darn singing for your tastes?
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Tami Neilson - Gig Review: Tami Neilson @ St. James Theatre, Wellington - 06/10/2023
09 Oct 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
It’s one thing to experience an increasingly rare high-attendance Rock n Roll Revue, but it’s another thing entirely to have been successfully transported into a time period decades before your existence. In a freshly renovated St James Theatre, Tami Neilson’s Rock n Roll Revue marks my first time back in the lush venue since my childhood – an experience that somewhat lines me with the rest of the crowd in association to these songs and performance style.
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Arahi - Gig Review: Arahi: Te Tokotoru @ Big Fan, Auckland - 6/10/2023
08 Oct 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
My first visit to Big Fan, the new studio complex in Kingsland with a small gigging area out front. It’s the first gig on a brief NZ tour for Te Tokoturu, the latest project from Arahi, one of the most exciting new singer/songwriters to emerge out of lockdown.
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Michèle Ducray - EP Review: Throne Of Mine
05 Oct 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Mysterious and sinister themes such as horror combined with the colourful characteristics of circus life are the inspiration behind emerging dark-pop artist Michèle Ducray's debut EP Throne Of Mine. The balance of both dark and light create a fresh and original sound that is complex as it is identifiable.
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Three Islands - Album Review: Resolution Island
03 Oct 2023 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
Listening to Resolution Island by Three Islands is like dreaming while awake. An eloquently crafted musical dreamscape to lose yourself in completely.
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Sandtrap - EP Review: Colder Moments
03 Oct 2023 // A review by OLDER
Auckland based Sandtrap have released their debut EP Colder Moments comprising 5 tracks which is on rotate as I write, filling my headphones with rather splendid aural delights. Sandtrap are Jimi Terei on drums, Kainoa Ogilvie on vocals, Luca Keltie on bass, and Luke Bennett on guitars.
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Everlasting Bonfire - EP Review: EB EP
02 Oct 2023 // A review by IShadowcasterI
Carl Watkins looks to continue his musical journey post Daisy Chain Halo with a new sound that still provides the same passion and intensity as his previous project. The result is Everlasting Bonfire, and in this instance, the debut EP simply titled EB EP.
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Claudia Robin Gunn - Album Review: Firefly
02 Oct 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Working in music education gives some insight into what challenging area that Children’s Music can be. The first essential consideration is simply coming to terms with the makeup of the audience, and knowing that children, whanau, and teachers are combined into particularly unique ‘demographic’.
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Stray Dogs - Album Review: Stay Loyal
01 Oct 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
I feel there’s something extra in the old school pop punk waters lately with Blink 182 hitting our shores early next year, and Sum 41 releasing new music too for the first time in four years. It’s an exciting time if you’re a millennial, and for those of us who were teenagers in the early 2000’s, pop punk (and nu metal) reigned.
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Summer Thieves - Album Review: Cigarettes in Space
29 Sep 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
I rediscovered Summer Thieves during the recent Going Global showcases down in the cellars on K Road, and was mightily re-impressed, although slightly irked to discover that I missed their second album during the fog of lockdown. But not to worry, they are back with their third album Cigarettes in Space which opens with a deeply funk bass riff propping up a Spaceship with echoes of Major Tom translated into modern day thievery.
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Bulletbelt - Album Review: Burn It Up
28 Sep 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Though nobody can claim they know every Kiwi metal band to have ever existed, to know anything about heavy music in Aotearoa, the name Bulletbelt should at least ring a bell. To say their career thus far has been impressive is an understatement.
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End of an Empire - Album Review: Best Laid Plans
25 Sep 2023 // A review by River Tucker
It’s been a couple of years since End of an Empire released their favourably reviewed debut album, Within, Without in 2020. Since then, the Wellington-based four-piece have obviously put their time to good use by writing Best Laid Plans, which is arguably one of the finest Hardcore releases to come out of New Zealand this year.
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ISLA - EP Review: Low
21 Sep 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
As the winter smog begins to lift over Aotearoa, Auckland singer-songwriter ISLA releases her ode to seasonal depression, Low. This is an EP of smooth, delicate dream-folk, from an independent artist backed by her "band of sisters" clearly deeply impassioned by the music just as their frontman is.
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Tim Finn - Gig Review: Tim Finn @ Christchurch Town Hall, Christchurch - 20/09/2023
21 Sep 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I'm still on a high, from this show. Still totally amped up about it.
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Phorrest - EP Review: On My Way
19 Sep 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Tuning into the new EP from Auckland hip hop artist Phorrest, the intro track does well to set the scene for the rest of the EP. But wait, why is the title track of the EP in brackets and labeled Intro (On My Way!
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Amila - EP Review: Life Changes
19 Sep 2023 // A review by Samantha Cheong
Just in time for the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and Chilean Independence Day, Kiwi-Chilean artist Amila debuts her EP Life Changes. Produced by Dan Martin, the five-track collection is a bilingual blend of dance-ready pop ballads, Latin beats and promising songwriting.
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Lost Vessels - EP Review: Things I Never Said
19 Sep 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Auckland 5-Piece Lost Vessels have recently released their debut EP Things I Never Said, comprised of five tracks that stand out amongst the crowd, a passionate offering of high energy, accessible, engaging punk fueled rock. All This Time, their first single release, is an absolute banger of a track to open this EP and introduce the world to Lost Vessels.
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Cheap Sav For Dead Friends - EP Review: Cheap Sav For Dead Friends
19 Sep 2023 // A review by OLDER
Tamaki Makaurau’s Indie rock-pop band Cheap Sav For Dead Friends have released their self-titled, self-recorded, self-produced, and self-engineered debut EP which includes their September 2023 single Emotional. Joe Dekkers-Reihana and Jack Buchanan head up the vocals, guitar work and song writing with Sam Clavis on bass and Taylor Hall on drums.
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Sam Heselwood - EP Review: Home Is Where The Heart Is
19 Sep 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Ex rugby player turned singer-songwriter Sam Heselwood has recently released his 5 track EP Home Is Where The Heart Is. Originally from Christchurch, the indie-pop musician has delivered poignant, beautifully composed music which aims straight for the heart.
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Clementine Valentine - Gig Review: Clementine Valentine @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 16/09/2023
16 Sep 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Clementine Valentine took to the Whammy stage in Auckland on the fourth and final date of their nationwide album release tour. Their new album entitled The Coin That Broke The Fountain Floor, was released through Flying Nun Records in August 2023.
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K'Shore - Album Review: Grief Sessions
14 Sep 2023 // A review by Daylen Schmied-Pape
I had no idea what I was getting myself in to. When I agreed to review K’Shore’s 5-track album Grief Sessions, I believed I would be reviewing a short hip-hop album.
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Model Home - Album Review: ...And Nobody Made A Sound
12 Sep 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Model Home’s new album wastes no time opening the listener into their soundscape in ...And Nobody Made A Sound; The new album teeming with swinging beats and sparkling guitar parts as well as a solid voice that empowers and uplifts the listener.
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Furious Cartel - EP Review: Medication
12 Sep 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
If you haven’t yet heard of Furious Cartel, then you’ll want to after this review. Formed from the embers of 90’s metal pioneers, Subtract and Furious George, Joel Facon and Bryce Wood have teamed up with Andrew Langsford to bring us Furious Cartel.
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Matt Joe Gow - EP Review: Closer To Tomorrow
11 Sep 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
In early 2023, Matt Joe Gow released album number 4, Between Tonight And Tomorrow, to widespread critical acclaim. Not only did that include 5-star reviews, Matt also took home the 2023 MLT Songwriting Award.
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Danica Bryant - Gig Review: Danica Bryant + Band @ Moon, Wellington - 10/09/2023
11 Sep 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Sunday evening was gritty and thundering despite the great weather. After pulling the front door of the Moon bar in Newtown, Wellington, I get a warm lilac smile from artist Danica Bryant and a sweet “Thank you for coming!
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Nick Burson Band - Album Review: Hindsight
08 Sep 2023 // A review by OLDER
In July 2023 Christchurch based musician Nick Burson released his album Hindsight as the Nick Burson Band featuring himself on all guitars and vocals, Rosanna Burdett on drums, Alister George on bass and keyboards and Steffany Beck on vocals on Best Dreams. Produced by Alister George, Hindsight is comprised of nine Country Blues Rock tracks including previously released singles Should Have Let You Know, Can't Believe It’s Come To This, Best Dreams, Bad World and Ever Be Enough.
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Yurt Party - Yurt Party - Album Review: Yurt Party
07 Sep 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
It sure isn't summer, and this is really not the Balkans, but Yurt Party’s new self-titled album refutes that. Back with another one of them Balkan rocking beats, Yurt Party’s debut is jazzy, erratic, and full of zest and energetic grooves, with flavour notes of ska, dub, and bergamot.
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SD-2100 - EP Review: SD-2100 vs The World
05 Sep 2023 // A review by JamieDenton
Hailing from Kirikiriroa (Hamilton), the multi-talented artist Sam Densem has showcased his versatility across a spectrum of musical genres and styles. Sam's approach to his craft involves crafting distinct packages of music, each with its own unique flavour and character.
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Gig Review: Loserpalooza Festival @ Totara Street, Mt Maunganui - 2/09/2023
05 Sep 2023 // A review by Mattmyth
Lethargic are on first at 12pm, and they’re the reason I had to be at the flatmate’s house to leave Auckland when you could still see your breath in the air. Lethargic, as the singer would tell us after their first song, are new and hungry for our drugs.
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05 Sep 2023 // A review by Mattmyth
Lethargic are on first at 12pm, and they’re the reason I had to be at the flatmate’s house to leave Auckland when you could still see your breath in the air. Lethargic, as the singer would tell us after their first song, are new and hungry for our drugs.
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King Cass - EP Review: Old Days EP 1.0
03 Sep 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Hunter "King Cass" Wilson has hinted at releasing two EPs before the end of 2023, following up on a handful of singles released since 2019's The Awakening (From Dark To Light), his debut album. I reviewed one of those singles here, the catchy laid-back grooves of Yea Yea.
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Going Global Review: Day 2 Showcase
03 Sep 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Saturday night at the Whammy trinity and we know the score. Artists in the round, although we are the ones moving underground, 20 minutes tops, immaculate precision.
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03 Sep 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Saturday night at the Whammy trinity and we know the score. Artists in the round, although we are the ones moving underground, 20 minutes tops, immaculate precision.
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Going Global Review: Day 1 Showcase
02 Sep 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The Going Global Music Summit brings together a host of international music industry folk and they talk about the industry. It’s organized by IMNZ (Independent Music NZ) and the NZ Music Commission.
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02 Sep 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The Going Global Music Summit brings together a host of international music industry folk and they talk about the industry. It’s organized by IMNZ (Independent Music NZ) and the NZ Music Commission.
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Dr. Reknaw - EP Review: Portal
31 Aug 2023 // A review by CuillinHearty
After an almost two-year hiatus, Dr.Reknaw makes a triumphant return with their latest enchanting EP, Portal.
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Evan Silva - Album Review: Reihana Street
31 Aug 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Out of the blue, nearly 60 years in the making, lands Reihana Street in my inbox with an extraordinary back story. Evan Silva was an altar boy gone wild, a Mission Bay mafiosi, and a singer/songwriter from the mid-sixties, starting at age 13 singing pop songs, before settling into soul and then selling that soul to the excesses of the 60’s in Kings Cross centred Sydney, sailing close to the edge, before epiphany struck, and overnight, life changed.
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The Larry Normans - Album Review: Dirty Living
30 Aug 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
The Larry Normans are a hard rock/garage band that has been in and out of the music scene since 2000, when they formed at a party in Auckland City. 2005 was the release of their debut album and after a solid gigging history the band went into hiatus in 2010, reforming in 2019.
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Mana Mushroom - Album Review: Mana Mushroom
30 Aug 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
Poneke’s Mana Mushroom’s eponymous self-titled debut EP has emerged into the world, and it’s a banger! Showing the benefit of a long period of gestation in the live arena, this impressive instrumental collection has its aim stated as “to stimulate listeners' senses in a way which evokes a sense of wonder about the world and our place in it", and it achieves this aim.
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Strawpeople - Album Review: Knucklebones
29 Aug 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
For the first time in 19 years, slick electro-pop duo Strawpeople (Fiona McDonald ex-The Headless Chickens, and Paul Casserly) have released an album sparking early 2000's nostalgia. Knucklebones is a fusion of their iconic sound mixed with a collection of entirely new material.
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Six Twos - EP Review: Anchors
29 Aug 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
The quintessential So Cal punk rock scene has always been a prominent and thriving scene, and it appears it’s alive and well even over our shores, and in particular, Mount Maunganui. Six Two’s has been a band since 2020 in the thick of multiple lockdowns and a shared love of punk rock in general and this is their second EP, Anchors.
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No Life - EP Review: Delinquent
28 Aug 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
No Life returned to us with a 6-track EP. Band members DJ Fieldes, Mitch Blair, Connor Dickson and Kahi Bettridge have found gold with Delinquent.
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Don McGlashan - Gig Review: Don McGlashan @ Artworks Theatre, Waiheke Island - 26/08/2023
28 Aug 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Don McGlashan warmed up the Waiheke Artworks centre on Saturday night with a magical journey through the past 40 years of the art of The Don. The newly appointed (but not yet anointed) Hall of Famer was in modestly ebullient form as he thanked his Lucky Stars in his opening song.
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Robin Kelly - Album Review: Shadowman
28 Aug 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Based in Auckland, Robin Kelly has released a new album into the world, and it’s already available to listen to. Shadowman is Kelly’s 6th album, with his extensive discography going back to 1998.
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Lester - EP Review: Lost and Found
28 Aug 2023 // A review by JamieDenton
Tamaki Makaurau / Auckland-based MC Lester (ex-Round Buddha) is not a new name within Aotearoa New Zealand’s independent music scene. Indeed, Lester has carved a distinct presence for himself since his early releases in 2017.
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Craig Payne - Album Review: Never Say Never
23 Aug 2023 // A review by OLDER
Craig Payne – born in France, formative years lived in the UK and now very much resident in Christchurch has a new 10-track album out on November 5th (2023) titled Never Say Never. Reading Craig’s back story, it becomes immediately clear he has been a very prolific artist over nearly five decades both playing live and recording.
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Lot.12 - Lot.12 & Personal Igloo - EP Review: Who Killed Nigel?
23 Aug 2023 // A review by Brad Miller
7 years after their last release Lot.12 are back and stronger than ever with their sophomore EP Who Killed Nigel?
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Sofia Machray - Gig Review: Sofia Machray @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 19/08/2023
21 Aug 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Sofia Machray brought her Language of Flowers show, the last of a five-night nationwide tour, to Whammy Bar in Auckland. Machray has recently released her debut 6-track EP and tonight was the premier of her music for Tamaki Makarau.
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Grym Rhymney - EP Review: This Is What Your Hands Were Made For
19 Aug 2023 // A review by Samantha Cheong
Three years after their first short player The Shadows We Cast Years Ago, Auckland band Grym Rhymney released their second EP This Is What Your Hands Were Made For via Swamp Kult Records. The metalheads share a precise and melodic five-track record of energetic and sincere proportions in the culmination of their two-year project.
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Hummucide - Album Review: Tides
18 Aug 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Hummucide are a well established group of musicians originally based in Wellington (although now working round the world) “Heavy Jazz” is the way they describe their sound, and that's an accurate phrase- and a rather nifty one, too. Tides is the group's first full length album release and it's the result of an extensive and extended process of crafting and refining.
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Cautionary Tales - Album Review: Cautionary Tales
16 Aug 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Cautionary Tales is an alt-rock band based in Aotearoa, via Berlin and New York. It's an art-rock outfit built around the type of myths and legends where somebody gets screwed over for riding a scorpion or not tipping an old lady.
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Sofia Machray - Gig Review: Sofia Machray @ Meow, Wellington - 11/08/2023
13 Aug 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
On Friday, I had the pleasure of being a part of the bustling crowd at the Te-Whanganui-a-Tara leg of Sofia Machray’s Language of Flowers EP Release Tour! The night began with Mirror Ritual’s dreamy, percussion-heavy rock.
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Gig Review: Lunar Intruder @ Moon, Wellington - 12/08/2023
13 Aug 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
As always, the line-up at Moon in Newtown, Wellington is out of this world on a Saturday night. Amidst their ‘Good Dogs Go To Heaven’ tour, the aptly titled Lunar Intruder are up from Christchurch, for a show supported by Tarik Rahim and Bleach that has no trouble pulling a buzzing crowd in from the cold.
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13 Aug 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
As always, the line-up at Moon in Newtown, Wellington is out of this world on a Saturday night. Amidst their ‘Good Dogs Go To Heaven’ tour, the aptly titled Lunar Intruder are up from Christchurch, for a show supported by Tarik Rahim and Bleach that has no trouble pulling a buzzing crowd in from the cold.
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Shepherds Reign - Album Review: Ala Mai
11 Aug 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Aotearoa's Shepherds Reign are set to deliver their long-awaited new album Ala Mai to the world and set their place on the global musical landscape of heavy music as a band set for greatness. Known for blending various metal subgenres and Polynesian sounds that creates their overall concept, Ala Mai delivers hard and heavy head banging riffs, complex guitar arrangements and powerful and striking vocals that encapsulate universal themes of life, love, family, loss, and culture.
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System Corporation - Album Review: Foundation & Method
09 Aug 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Hailing from Hamilton, System Corporation is an eclectic indie rock outfit that definitely colour outside the lines and execute it well. Foundation & Method is their debut album and if you’re looking for a solid, out of the box sound with fantastic production and arrangement, you need to jump on this now.
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Dead Shrine - Album Review: The Eightfold Path
08 Aug 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
What I love the most about reviewing one-man bands and artists is the thrill of knowing you are about to hear something extra special and truly mind blowing. Dead Shrine is no exception, and as the one-man band brainchild of Craig Williamson (formally of Datura, Arc of Ascent, Azazel) you know it’s going to be a good ride.
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Tom Lark - Gig Review: Tom Lark @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 5/08/2023
07 Aug 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Tom Lark recently brought his Brave Star tour to Tamaki Makarau along with his band and support from K M T P. Lark has been absent from both touring and releasing music for a number of years.
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The Rising Tide - Gig Review: Inferno - Youth Rock & Metal @ The Stomach, Palmerston North - 5/08/2023
07 Aug 2023 // A review by River Tucker
It’s not often that you get treated to a mid-winter concert where nearly every metal genre is being performed. But that’s exactly what happened at The Stomach in Palmerston North last Saturday night where four bands gave it their all in a rip-roaring all-ages show that will undoubtedly leave the hundred or so people who attended with lasting impressions.
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Vox Capacitor - EP Review: Variance
07 Aug 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Variance is the promised follow-up to the Hindsight EP from Auckland-based solo artist Vox Capacitor.Solo in the truest sense: everything is created, performed, produced, engineered, and mixed by Vox Capacitor (aka Steve McBride) himself.
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day13n - Album Review: /7/13/7/
06 Aug 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
I’m too old for this world. We’ve devolved to the point where music is only as good as the soundtrack to your 10 second TikTok, and the thirty thousand copies recycling the idea.
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Sonia & Nigel - Album Review: Sweet Paname
04 Aug 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
In the middle of last month, just in time for Bastille Day, Sonia Wilson released the digital version of her paean to Paris, Sweet Paname. Sonia is Franco-American, born and educated in Paris, and now resides in Auckland after a peripatetic period of travel.
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Sofia Machray - EP Review: Language Of Flowers
01 Aug 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Wellington based Sofia Machray has been described as an “eclectic master of indie singer-songwriter gone rouge,” her recently released debut EP Language Of Flowers consists of 6 ethereal indie dream-rock tracks which have been beautifully constructed. Inspired by her love of flowers in particular the similarity in evolution between human nature from tiny seed to full bloom.
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Jiahu Symbols - EP Review: For The Good Times
01 Aug 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The Jiahu Symbols are an early language form found on 16 distinct markings discovered in China in the late 1980's and estimated at 6000 years old. Not thought to be joined up writing, more a precursor.
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Crooked Royals - Gig Review: Crooked Royals @ Big Fan, Auckland - 29/07/2023
30 Jul 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Crooked Royals set a precedent for Auckland home shows last night, Packing a sold-out crowd into an intimate venue, Big Fan, in the sleepy suburb of Morningside. Each supporting act brought in what felt like a puzzle piece into what Crooked Royals’ soundscape is, the venue-shattering line-up of Stacked, All I Seek, and Finger Tight opening for the aforementioned powerhouse act.
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T. G. Shand - EP Review: Cinnamon
28 Jul 2023 // A review by Samantha Cheong
The Cinnamon EP is the five-parter passion project of Annemarie Duff. Honed over three years, Duff’s plan to extend her shoegaze and dream pop discography into an album were "scrapped" into a short player that focuses on eliciting a musical and emotional journey.
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Will McClean - Album Review: Don't Forget to Breathe
28 Jul 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Out of the underground hip-hop scene of Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington comes Will McClean, who over the past handful of years has garnered accolades on his recorded music and performances. Having shared stages with Kiwi icons Troy Kingi, Che Fu and Diggy Dupé, Will seems determined to keep the momentum and create new releases.
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Cloudy - Single Review: On The Edge
27 Jul 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Laidback and soulful, Kiwi-Austrian performer Cloudy's new single On The Edge is a unique singer-songwriter track traversing many a genre. From bedroom pop to indie rock, it's a cohesive, expressive release introducing her hotly awaited sophomore EP.
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SKRAM - Gig Review: SKRAM @ Big Fan, Auckland - 22/07/2023
26 Jul 2023 // A review by LouClementine
SKRAM blew up Big Fan in Auckland on their Strawberry Dream Tour. Billed as "an explosive pop music spectacle", they didn’t disappoint, the energy was palpable.
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AJSCeleste Music - Album Review: Gold
26 Jul 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
AJSCeleste Music may be a totally unique creator in the Aotearoa music scene. An extremely experimental songwriter crafting material from her home studio, her quirky blend of almost spoken-word lyricism and kaleidoscopic sounds fills a very specific niche.
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You, Me, Everybody - Gig Review: You Me Everybody @ Tuning Fork, Auckland - 23/07/2023
25 Jul 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
A nice cosy seating arrangement greeted us on Sunday night to contrast the winter gloom as the Tuning Fork opened its doors nice and early for a night of music from old friends. You, Me, Everybody are on tour to celebrate the fame and attention they have been receiving since having a song chosen for the Netflix series Sweet Tooth, and so now we are paying attention to them and they to us!!!
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Valkyrie - Rebel Reid - EP Review: Hiria
25 Jul 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Beautifully produced, Rebel Reid’s acoustic EP Hiria feels laid back, gorgeous, and expansive, filling ears with rich backing vocals and lush guitar. Known as a member of the band Valkyrie, Rebel Reid released her debut EP on the 14th of July, aligning with Matariki, in memory of her beloved mum.
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And$um - Album Review: The Heroic Adventures of And$um & Lui Mill
21 Jul 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Following a string of acclaimed singles, Otautahi Christchurch Hip-Hop artists And$um and Lui Mills have released a brand new collaborative album of seven tracks named The Heroic Adventures of And$um & Lui Mill. The two rap artists have been kicking around the Christchurch Hip-Hop scenes for years, and have put together this LP as a result of their longtime friendship.
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Orangefarm - Album Review: Inheritance
21 Jul 2023 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
Inheritance is the long awaited debut album from Wellington indie rock outfit Orangefarm. The band is the vehicle for the ongoing musical offerings of front-man Nigel Mitchell, who is well settled and respected in the Wellington musical landscape.
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NOVA - EP Review: Songs From Home
20 Jul 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Hailing from the Wellington region, NOVA is a unique retro, disco soul pop medley comprised of members, Bryn Van Vliet, Eliza Pickard and joined by other musicians, Phoebe Johnson, Conway Jeune and Luther Hunt. Songs From Home is their second EP off the back of 2021 self-titled EP, and if you’re into tunes with layers, plenty of harmony, melody and fine musicianship, look no further.
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James Constable - Album Review: Interesting Times
20 Jul 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi indie singer-songwriter James Constable released his second album Interesting Times on the 16th of June. This ten track album follows on from the 19 years old’s debut Tui, which I had the pleasure of reviewing when it was released in 2021.
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Beacon Bloom - Single Review: Fallen Flower
19 Jul 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Fallen Flower is a recent collaboration between New Zealand's Beacon Bloom and L.A.
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Mitch and his Guitar - Single Review: Mine In My Mind
18 Jul 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Mitch and his Guitar is a solo musical artist from Hawera in Taranaki, diversifying from wedding singing to deliver original soft pop songs inspired by the likes of Ed Sheeran, Passenger and Hollow Coves. Mine In My Mind is one of three tracks which will be followed by his debut album.
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Like Angels - Album Review: Your Day Will Come
18 Jul 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Like Angels is the new solo project from Lyttelton based Robert McLean, and was also the title track of his previous release with his band How to Kill, back in 2010. Robert has taken time away from music but is now back home and has written and self-produced an 88 minute album of progressive apocalypse in Killswitch studios (now that seems appropriate) in Lyttelton.
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SACHI - Single Review: Whole Again
17 Jul 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
SACHI are an electronic dance duo made up of Nick Chrisp and Will Thomas. Whole Againis their first music release of 2023.
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Jazmine Mary - Gig Review: Jazmine Mary w/ Vera Ellen @ Wunderbar, Lyttelton - 15/07/2023
17 Jul 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Lyttelton's Wunderbar was a wonderful setting for this show, my friends and I luckily there early enough to get good seats in the intimate, candle-lit warmth. I don't know if it was sold out or not, but it must have been pretty close, there was a decent crowd there to see Jazmine Mary and their band.
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The New Existentialists - Single Review: Invocation
16 Jul 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
The New Existentialists, a doom metal band known for their dark and atmospheric soundscapes, have just… Wait a minute… No. The New Existentialists are really not a doom metal band, and they’re really not known for their dark soundscapes… They’re more known as stalwarts of a bygone era.
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GZ - EP Review: The Story Behind the Realness
16 Jul 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Purportedly an artist with many pseudonyms, GZ is a rap artist active as a part of the Auckland hip-hop diaspora. Though safe to assume he’s had a considerable presence over the years under multiple stage names, I wasn’t able to unearth much in the way of artist info relating to GZ, except images of the man himself looking like a force to be reckoned with.
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Gig Review: Catherine Bullock + Danica Bryant + Jeline @ Valhalla, Wellington - 12/07/2023
13 Jul 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
These three artists brought something divinely emotional to Valhalla on Wednesday night. Each of these Wellington-based artists had something to say and a lot of friends to say it to.
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13 Jul 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
These three artists brought something divinely emotional to Valhalla on Wednesday night. Each of these Wellington-based artists had something to say and a lot of friends to say it to.
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Joseph E Harrison - Album Review: Therapy For A Cynic
12 Jul 2023 // A review by OLDER
Joseph E Harrison, originally from Sheffield in the North of England, came to Aotearoa in the late nineties and has for the best part of forty years been performing and song-writing on both sides of the world. Now resident in Wellington, his new album Therapy For A Cynic released on all major platforms on July 5th is, to quote his own concise words, “a collection of songs spanning the last twenty-five years, reimagined and reworked through years of studio time and live performance.
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Wednesday's Girlfriend - EP Review: Cards
11 Jul 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
Wednesday’s Girlfriend have hit the ground running with their electric debut EP Cards, filling out their wall of sound with dynamic vocal melodies, incredible guitar licks, and a beat that’s meant to be danced to. Get your friends together, roll the windows down in your car, and put this EP on blast.
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No Reply - Single Review: Departure Lounge
11 Jul 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
No Reply has mixed an enchanting rhythm that honours classic hip-hop and Reggae. The Tauranga-based band has released their debut single Departure Lounge which is not only funky but inquisitive.
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day13n - Single Review: PA1N x SAG3
11 Jul 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Listening to Day13n’s new single PA1N x SAG3 is the stuff of nightmares, with a dark and edgy musicality underpinning the intensely whisper-screamed lyrics. The song is divided into two halves, which nicely illustrates the forces of duality that are at play in the mind of the artist.
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Jazmine Mary - Gig Review: Jazmine Mary @ Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 08/07/2023
10 Jul 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Jazmine Mary enchanted the fully seated Hollywood theatre in Avondale on Saturday night celebrating their new album Dog. But first up was an elegantly attired Julia Deans bringing us some new songs from her next album due out later this year.
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Mahoney Harris - Single Review: I Don't Have To Move From Here
10 Jul 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Mahoney Harris' beautiful new folk number I Don't Have To Move From Here is an airy, light track celebrating the worth of knowing your boundaries and personal needs. Working alongside producer Wayne Bell and masterer Oliver Harmer, the Waiheke-based artist has crafted a beautiful follow-up to her previous series of singles.
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Rowdy's Rose - EP Review: From The Flames
08 Jul 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
During the 2020 lockdown, many exciting independent bands came to light. Rowdy’s Rose, a husband and wife duo from the Waikato consisting of Blair and Rosie Shaw are one of them.
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Gig Review: Crushfest @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 07/07/2023
07 Jul 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
So it was down to Tuning Fork for the first night of the second Crushfest festival. Tonight was going to be Wellington and Auckland bands, and then some of the same will be playing at the second night in Wellington next month.
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07 Jul 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
So it was down to Tuning Fork for the first night of the second Crushfest festival. Tonight was going to be Wellington and Auckland bands, and then some of the same will be playing at the second night in Wellington next month.
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Shaun Malloch - Single Review: Been Long
06 Jul 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
Two years after the release of his self-produced debut Take What You Can, Shaun Malloch returns with the cruisy, indie-pop track Been Long. Aptly named, the song presents itself as a laid-back salutation as Shaun re-enters the airwaves; ardour that says “hey, how have you been?
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Bazurka - Album Review: Novi Grad All Stars
06 Jul 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
Te-Whanganui-a-Tara’s Bazurka back up their cool-as-fuck name with a refreshingly distinct sound, one that brings the spirit of the Balkans alive in contemporary Aotearoa.Their new album, Novi Grad All Stars, opens with a flourish of brass, leading in to a delicate violin threnody, which then segues into a syncopated groove, in which all the players are given their opportunity to shine.
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Tone6 - Single Review: Close Your Eyes
05 Jul 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Tone6 are a vocal group from Auckland, consisting of Kirita Leavasa , Selevasio Tu'ima, Peachez Vetenibua, Seletute Tu'ima, Viliami Tupa'i and Shaelyn Togafiti , who began working together when attending Saintzup Performing Arts School. The collective experience and ability of these singers belies their youth, and while Close Your Eyes is just their second release, it's a powerful and assured musical statement.
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Fictional Response - Single Review: Moonstruck
05 Jul 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Fictional Response, the brain child of multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Richie Bennett is back with a cracker of a new single, Moonstruck. Moonstruck is the first release for 2023, following a slew of genre bending singles released throughout 2021-2022 and packs a massive nostalgic punch for this listener.
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Mismatch - Single Review: Burn
04 Jul 2023 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
A thunderous tom roll drumbeat pans through the stereo field and immediately Mismatch’s latest track, Burn has my attention. A few bars later, the full band comes in, fronted with a simple ostinato lead guitar line which gives a hint of what’s to come later in the track.
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Guardian Singles - Album Review: Feed Me To The Doves
03 Jul 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
Tamaki Makaurau’s Guardian Singles are keeping the spirit of punk alive and kicking with their sophomore album, Feed Me To The Doves.From the first minute of opener Chad and Stacey, with its references to the peculiar blend of bitterness and displaced envy that is the incel hallmark, it’s clear that here is a band with much to say, and they’re going to make damn sure you can’t ignore them!
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Bush Lawyer - Single Review: Daisy
03 Jul 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
With a name like Bush Lawyer, the curiosity is definitely piqued to check out this band, a four piece who hail from Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington, and their second single, Daisy. With a self-confessed sound of 'surf rock, reggae and ska’ they have hit the nail on the head there.
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Dan Sharp - Single Review: Interstellar Runaway
02 Jul 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Interstellar Runaway, written with Sam Bartells, is Taupo-based songwriter Dan Sharp’s latest single. This song offers more of the soulful, blues inspired pop he has become known for.
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SJD - Gig Review: SJD w/ Beachware @ Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 30/06/2023
01 Jul 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Sean James Donnelly (SJD) brought his Sweetheart tour to Tamaki Makaurau and presented his latest release, his ninth album, Sweetheart. SJD is low-key specialist artist: a musician, songwriter and producer who, through his compositions, seems to make music which takes life (gently) by the horns and wrestles with it.
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Skitch Hiker - Single Review: Slippery Wet Handshake
30 Jun 2023 // A review by Paul Goddard
Wow.Just when you have given up on music and banging your head against a brick wall wondering why Taylor Swift is more popular than toilet roll during a pandemic something like this comes along.
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The Artist Red - Album Review: Gemini Woman
29 Jun 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Hopefully, I can be forgiven for not hearing the name Dionne Stanbridge, or her artist name, The Artist Red until now, but the good news is, I get to dive in head first with her debut album, Gemini Woman. And what a package to unravel.
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Magic Factory - Album Review: Deliver The Goods
28 Jun 2023 // A review by OLDER
June 23rd 2023 saw the release of the sophomore album by Tamaki Makaurau's own Magic Factory entitled Deliver The Goods. Seven words into the press release I’m reaching for a dictionary to find out what ‘sophomore’ means – the first result is from the Greek meaning ‘wise fools’.
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Tom Knowles - Album Review: Atarangi - Morning Sky
28 Jun 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Tom Knowles latest release Atarangi - Morning Sky is a must listen. Like, close this page now, go listen to the album, and then come back and read this.
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Citris iNK - Single Review: Last Night Replay
27 Jun 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
RnB, Neo-soul duo Citris iNK released their second single Last Night Replay on the 9th of June.The duo comprises of Auckland born multi-instrumentalist Nick Taylor and South African singer-songwriter Kristin Paulse.
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Bad Taste - Album Review: Bad Taste II
27 Jun 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Straight out of Whanganui, just down the road from my neck of the woods, Bad Taste comprises the 70's Prog Rock and Spaghetti Western inspired Alphabethead and the lyrically adept and furious at society Young Gho$t.Over a year in the making, Bad Taste II is the follow up to their self-titled debut.
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Sam Heselwood - Single Review: Home
27 Jun 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Home is the new single from professional rugby player turned pop star Sam Heselwood – an up and coming Otautahi star who has already hit the charts and is clearly ‘one to watch’. An authentically vulnerable song, Home is both sweet and strong, and thoughtfully produced – recorded by Terence O’Connor and mixed by Simon Gooding.
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The Transits - Single/Video Review: Renegade Hearts
26 Jun 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
The Transits are a NZ-South African band composed of Ryan Lunn (vocals, guitars, synths), Dom Antelme (vocals, bass) and Tyrone Smith (drums). Growing up in conservative South-African landscapes, their sound is thought to push the boundaries of how to be, and how to act.
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Em - EP Review: Tender
26 Jun 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
A beautiful, mellow EP about self-love, a quiet summer, and caring for oneself, Tender is the perfect EP for a reflective stroll in the cold morning air. Em, a singer-songwriter-producer hailing from Tamaki Makaurau, guides you through a sweet self-reflection journey.
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SJD - Gig Review: SJD w/ Mousey @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 24/06/2023
25 Jun 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I had a double treat tonight of not only being sent to experience a fantastic gig, but getting to hang out in one of my favourite Christchurch venues. If you've not yet been to Space Academy and tried their pizza, you are doing yourself a gross disservice, I tell you.
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Darktide - EP Review: No One, Nowhere, Nothing
24 Jun 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
At first glance, you’d never think quiet little New Zealand would be capable of exporting such a brutal act as Darktide. Their new EP No One, Nowhere, Nothing is exactly that: Brutal, unrelenting, and evil.
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No Man's Land - Single Review: Darling
23 Jun 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
If you haven’t yet heard of four piece, all female band, No Man’s Land, then don’t panic. Having been on the scene for a while now, they have released a swag of singles since 2022, so there is plenty to catch you up on.
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Marianne Leigh - Single Review: I Don't Care
23 Jun 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
I Don't Care, the new single by Marianne Leigh, takes pop punk and makes it celestial. I love it when a song takes a concept and can stretch the emotion it evokes.
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Dani Ela - Single Review: Always Keep Those Days
22 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Dani Ela's latest single Always Keep Those Days is a delicate moment of melancholia, reminiscing in fond memories over a light bedroom pop track.Hailing from New Plymouth, Ela crafts her music herself, with international aid for audio engineering.
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Coral Pitcher - Single Review: As I Rise
22 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Outspoken creative Coral, also known as Coral Pitcher, seeks growth on her striking single As I Rise. Best enjoyed alongside its entrancing music video, the song sees Coral revel in the galaxy and visually become one with the universe.
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Will McClean - Single Review: Seem Alright
21 Jun 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
This week Will McClean releases Seem Alright, the second track from his upcoming album Don’t Forget To Breathe, alongside an accompanying video clip. Seem Alright is a punchy upbeat jazz-funk hip-hop track that has been nicely arranged, with a dash of clarinet, strings, and a sampled jazz vocal for the chorus.
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SuperMild - Single Review: Self Respect
21 Jun 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
SuperMild is a 3-piece genre-spanning band based in Auckland. Once cited in a review as spanning Reggae, Dub, Roots, RnB, Funk, Psychedelic, Rock, and Jazz, SuperMild is driven by a desire to not get stuck in one sound, and to bring banter, energy, a good time, and a great sound to as many stages as possible.
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Tomahawk Radio - Album Review: Dreaming With A View
20 Jun 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Tomahawk Radio’s debut album, Dreaming With A View follows their recent single release of the pop tinged rock song Missiles. The band is effectively listenable, soft, alternative rock, but perhaps ‘soft’ is not a favourable way to describe them – ‘sensible’ might be better.
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Ugly Boys Collective - EP Review: Death Petals
20 Jun 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Auckland, NZ hybrid rock outfit Ugly Boys Collective have recently dropped their debut EP Death Petals, a diverse four track album full of 80's and 90's grunge inspired riffage and thrash guitar solos with unique vocals and production. Opening with Erased, a distorted opening bass riff with kick, lifts off into the song mains progression.
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Jaqualyn Taimana Williams - EP Review: Guns of Dialogue
20 Jun 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Successful children’s music creator Jaqualyn Taimana Williams has recently released a 5-track EP called Guns of Dialogue to follow up her 2019 multi-genre album Statues of Liberty. Guns of Dialogue has a great rock vibe overall, with a fusion of various other elements woven throughout its tracks.
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CACO - Single Review: Lights Off
19 Jun 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Raneem Caco, aka. CACO has continued to make waves in the hip-hop scenes of Aotearoa over the past six years.
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Mammuthus - Album Review: Imperator
18 Jun 2023 // A review by River Tucker
If you like your stoner metal super-sized and embellished with a nice touch of doom, then Mammuthus’ latest release, Imperator, is definitely the album for you. Seven tracks of deliciously down-tuned, guitar-driven heaviness smash into your eardrums like a well-oiled and relentless steam train.
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Dead Favours - Gig Review: Dead Favours @ Galatos, Auckland - 16/06/2023
18 Jun 2023 // A review by Gideon Voon
Tonight's line-up included some of NZ best upcoming rock acts to form in more recent years, so I had great expectations. Animalhead signaled their start by having all members fist-bump at the start.
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Dear Antler - Single Review: Sweet Little Worm
17 Jun 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Before today, occult rock was a very alien concept to me, but upon hearing the brand new Dear Antler song, Sweet Little Worm, I can confidently say, "It does what it says on the box".Sweet Little Worm is an atmospheric, slow-burning, and dark track that encompasses many feelings and vibes, and positively the type of song you'd have playing whilst conjuring your innermost urges to *Not* summon a demon in your bedroom.
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The Mitchell Twins - EP Review: Find a River
16 Jun 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The Mitchell Twins are Maegan and Nicola, with Nicola being the left one, if you can’t tell them apart. They have grown up in Gore as part of the Mitchell family, and now are following in the footsteps of big sister Jenny, with whom they have been seen over the past few years in a backing vocals capacity.
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Jethro Clarke - Single/Video Review: Human On
15 Jun 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The Facebook page of Jethro Clarke shows a decent handful of releases over the last couple of years, and the video for latest single Human On shows an artist confident and assured with what they're doing. A lightly fuzzed guitar riff introduces the track, underscoring a black and white display of retro technology, a Jethro Clarke vinyl LP being selected for playing on a gorgeous old radiogram, before a shot of a mound of cathode ray rube TVs.
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Rain - Single Review: Love and War
15 Jun 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been quite a while since I last heard from Wellington-based singer songwriter Cathy Elizabeth, and back then Rain was seen solely as a studio project with Cathy being accompanied by Thomas Te Taite, who provided all the instrumentation including digital drums. Now they are a full band who have been performing live, and it is the first time they have recorded as such, with Thomas now, just providing acoustic guitar (plus engineering and producing etc.
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Jenni Smith - Single Review: I Don't Know How Not To
15 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Recent University of Auckland pop music degree graduate Jenni Smith is here to prove her newfound skill with her single I Don't Know How Not To. It's a dreamy number made effective by the driving feeling that this comes straight from the heart.
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Cautionary Tales - Single Review: Women
15 Jun 2023 // A review by taffynz
One of the things I love about this job is that music is such a giver. I listened to the opening first few bars of Cautionary Tales' new single release Women and I was nodding me old head along with the sinister, wonderfully balanced intro - then vocalist/keys man Will Marshall kicked in with his opening lines.
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Broke - Single Review: Need
14 Jun 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Need is the latest single from Taranaki punk rockers Broke. It leaps straight out of the gate with snarling, anthemic punk attitude, a rolling and rollicking beat with guitars up to eleven.
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Saint Peter's Thursday - Album Review: Death Salt
14 Jun 2023 // A review by Tom Langdale-Hunt
We’re immediately thrusted into Cosmic Kaleidescope; an extremely punchy tune armed with belting, gravelly vocals and searing distortion. I’m immediately drawn into the Radio Moscow-like ferocity in the way this alternative rock sound is laid down.
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Lost Tribe Aotearoa - EP Review: Lost & Found
14 Jun 2023 // A review by Chris Chick
I am a true ‘noob’ when it comes to the Lost Tribe Aotearoa, so I can assure you and the band that this will be as unbiased as possible. After hearing the first song, I think it is going to be hard to stay that way all the way through this review.
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Space Waltz - Album Review: Victory
13 Jun 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
Way back in New Zealand’s entertainment history, as hard as it may be to believe, long before the days of streaming, if you wanted to watch TV you had one choice. State broadcasting provided all content, across a single channel.
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Where's Jai - Single Review: Something Wrong
12 Jun 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Where's Jai is a funky, fresh indie-reggae-rock band hailing from Auckland's North Shore. With addictive beats and grooves, they blend indie-rock with a chilled reggae twist and a pinch of soulful blues.
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Gig Review: Come Together: Dire Straits @ Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland - 10/06/2023
11 Jun 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Come Together came together last night at the Kiri Te Kanawa theatre with another tribute to Dire Straits. What, again?
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11 Jun 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Come Together came together last night at the Kiri Te Kanawa theatre with another tribute to Dire Straits. What, again?
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The Bravo Uniform Mikes - Gig Review: The Bravo Uniform Mikes @ Valhalla, Wellington - 8/06/2023
11 Jun 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
The final night of the BUM Punch Lower North Island tour occurred at Wellington’s infamous Valhalla club. The tour was headed by the Wellington/Manawatu based blues-rock two piece The Bravo Uniform Mikes (or “The Bums” to their fans) and four piece riot grrrl punk band, Cherry Punch, also from Wellington.
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Yann Le Dorré - Single Review: I Love You
09 Jun 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
I Love You is the second solo release from Yann Le Dorre, formally a mainstay in the Poneke-based ‘gutter folk’ outfit Yolk. I Love You a follows a path described by previous release Missed as clear development from the work Le Dorre has done in Yolk- removed is the extra instrumentation in favour of a baritone voice set in a minimalist musical backing.
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Aanvi S - EP Review: Emotions
09 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
At only ten years old, Aanvi S is perhaps New Zealand's youngest up-and-coming pop sensation. Working with Dan Antunovich and Scott Seabright at Auckland's Parachute Studios, her debut EP Emotions is a promising poetic collection, introducing a new voice the younger generation not only needs, but deserves.
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Slimivich - Single Review: Grind
08 Jun 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Slim Jenkins and Morgan Galloway of Slimivich are no newcomers to the NZ heavy music scene, having both previously played with legendary NZ Metal outfit Tainted. However, if you're looking for Tainted's inimitable Death Metal style, you can do that here, because this is something quite different.
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The Knids - Single Review: Doesn't Make It Right
07 Jun 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
The Knids latest single offer the same toe-tapping pop rock they are now known for. Doesn’t Make It Right has overtones of The Cars and other 80’s rock-tinged pop, not that it’s an easy thing to pull off!
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Jazz Night at the Aquarium - Album Review: Flush With Junk
06 Jun 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
If you haven’t yet heard of the name Julian van der Krogt, or even the name, Jazz Night at the Aquarium, then don’t worry, because you’re about to take a deep dive with me into a musical abyss that is quite simply spectacular. With a handful of EP’s to his name, this is his debut album.
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The Adventures Of Mikejoffa - Gig Review: The Adventures of Mikejoffa @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 02/06/2023
05 Jun 2023 // A review by Gideon Voon
Tonight’s programme comprised of Rock and Metals acts, of which has some ways of stretching the boundaries of the genre with some interesting influences.First up was Holy Crime.
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Tohu - Single Review: Tu Mai Te Reo
03 Jun 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Tohu is a five piece band based in Rotorua Aotearoa New Zealand, bringing over six decades of musical expertise that perpetuates bilingual culture through the power of music. Tu Mai Te Reo is the band's second single telling the story of “holding our language close to us” and “connecting our culture”.
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This Silent Divide - Gig Review: This Silent Divide @ Meow, Wellington - 1/06/2023
02 Jun 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Firstly, as a 24-year-old female, It’s important to note, I’m not exactly the predominant demographic for a band such as This Silent Divide. However, that’s the great thing about music, especially rock music, it’s not exclusive.
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Bleeding Star - Album Review: Dropper
02 Jun 2023 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
Dropper is the debut album from Wellington band - Bleeding Star. Self-described as "Noise Rock" the band have risen from bedroom demos to supporting international touring acts and being voted #1 on Wellingtons Radio Active for their song February.
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Marmalade - Single Review: Bright
01 Jun 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Bright is the brand new, debut single from Auckland indie pop rock five piece Marmalade. Straight out the gate, it is a song filled with infectious vocal hooks, harmonies, lush guitar melodies' and solos backed by a solid rhythm section.
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Lost Vessels - Single Review: All This Time
01 Jun 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I must admit I was not that impressed when I first saw Lost Vessels play at Crushfest, something they later admitted to me was the worst gig of their career, but since then they have improved in leaps and bounds. This has been noticed by others on the Auckland circuit as they are getting more opportunities with better support slots, and I was not at all surprised when they won the Ding Dong Lounge Battle Of The Bands in November last year.
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Samuel Philip Cooper - Album Review: Journey to Sobriety
01 Jun 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Samuel Philip Cooper sits on the brink of social media stardom, with videos of his belting out pop music piano covers from behind a pair of thick spectacles racking up views and likes on Insta. Little do any of the mindless doom scrollers swiping through his reels know, but percolating behind his eye brows is the very key to their very salvation.
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Jazmine Mary - Album Review: Dog
01 Jun 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Jazmine Mary’s sophomore offering is out today; Friday June 3rd, and it’s called Dog. Why it’s called Dog they are not saying, but there are references to “Houndog” and “Flower Power” in the outro to Seagull, so maybe that explains it or maybe it doesn’t.
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Jeline - Gig Review: Jeline @ Valhalla, Wellington - 31/05/2023
01 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Three exciting upcoming acts are ready to play Wellington's Viking rock bar Valhalla tonight, a student show headlined by Massey student star Jeline. Just after the clock strikes 8, the bar is already packed and waiting to start the party, and this is a line-up ready to deliver.
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01 Jun 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Three exciting upcoming acts are ready to play Wellington's Viking rock bar Valhalla tonight, a student show headlined by Massey student star Jeline. Just after the clock strikes 8, the bar is already packed and waiting to start the party, and this is a line-up ready to deliver.
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ARLi - Single Review: KARMA
31 May 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
The first thought that came into my mind after hearing this song was how it would work so well on the soundtrack of a nostalgic 90's film. It’s relatable and relentlessly resilient, I love it.
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Bad Jelly Collective - Single Review: RUN0UT
30 May 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
The Bad Jelly Collective is made up of Bad Jelly Ben and a few buddies who weave creative forces in their Huia Road Home Studio, nicely tucked away in the Waitakere Ranges.In the live setting, BJB "utilizes his arsenal of pedals, guitar amp & voice to create mood specific textures and colours.
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Mel Parsons - Gig Review: Mel Parsons @ Meow, Wellington - 28/05/2023
30 May 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
It’s been a good while since I’ve been to a gig at Meow, Wellington, so the first thing I do is weave my way through the growing crowd to get a good look at the size and layout of the stage. It’s nicely raised and fairly spacious, more spacious than I remembered actually!
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The Bravo Uniform Mikes - Gig Review: The Bravo Uniform Mikes w/ Cherry Punch @ Paisley Stage, Napier - 26/05/2023
29 May 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
In a venture threatening the eardrums of all those who come near, the ever-so-subtly named Bravo Uniform Mikes have paired up with Cherry Punch for the Bum Punch tour across Te-Ika-a Maui. Kicking off at Napier’s coolest little venue (tm), Paisley Stage, this pairing gave a powerful demonstration of the treats in store for those who make the effort to catch them on the remaining dates.
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Coast Arcade - Gig Review: Coast Arcade @ Big Fan, Auckland - 27/05/2023
29 May 2023 // A review by CuillinHearty
Heading into Auckland's freshest venue, Big Fan, there’s an electrifying buzz in the air ahead of a night of celebrating the release of Coast Arcade's debut EP Next to Me. The show is sold out, and it boasts one of the most diverse age ranges I've seen at a concert in a long time.
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Unwanted Subject - Single Review: Sons of Savages
28 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have caught Unwanted Subject in concert a few times over the last couple of years, and while they have been getting better each time I have seen them, I must admit that nothing prepared me for this, which right from the off is a monster. I have never heard them quite this is aggressive, nor as polished, and this multi-sectioned single sounds almost like a different band as they have pushed their metal roots to the max in this metalcore beast which sees them mixing and blending different genres to create something quite special.
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Stray Dogs - Gig Review: Stray Dogs @ AUX, Auckland - 26/05/2023
28 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
So it was back to Ding Dong Lounge on a Friday night for one of their infamous Emo nights, which tonight was a three-band bill with Stray Dogs having an extended set, supported by Altaea and then up first we had Blindr, a band new to me. Blindr are a quartet featuring Bill Caldwell (vocals, guitar), Blake Woodfield (lead guitar), Jack Power (bass), and Charlie McCracken (drums).
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Turkey The Bird - Gig Review: Turkey The Bird @ The Ministry of Folk, Auckland - 27/05/2023
27 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back up to Auckland Guide Centre in Mount Eden tonight for my second consecutive gig (Sol suggested it was a turkey sandwich as I am at Vader tomorrow) to see Taranaki’s finest, Turkey The Bird at The Ministry of Folk. Before that we of course had Hoop, who are Al Baxter (vocals, guitar, harmonica, banjo, mandolin), Nick Edgar (vocals, guitar, ukulele, flute, harmonica), Emily Allen (violin, viola), Glenn Coldham (bass) while tonight Gary Hunt was filling in for drummer Rusty Knox.
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SLICEDUB - Album Review: Grotesque Coil
27 May 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Oskar Simmons Carlsson and James Smith, AKA SLICEDUB. The two-man experimental-electro/dub act hailing from Auckland and Hawkes Bay have brought forth their first major release, entitled Grotesque Coil, released on Auckland label Glass Half Full.
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Yaya and the Snakes - Album Review: The Whole Shebang
26 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Yaya and the Snakes first caught my attention back in 2020, when they released the single I Lost My Kumara On The Side Of The Road. Very much my kind of thing, a quintessentially Kiwi tale, a gut-wrenching tale of tuber tragedy.
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Dictaphone Blues - EP Review: Greetings From Glen Eden
26 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
This was a real treat, to get to listen to and review the latest release from Dictaphone Blues. Greetings From Glen Eden (and if you click on that handy-dandy link right there, you'll be whisked off to a magical portal where you can pay a mere NZ$5 for the entire EP!
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Michèle Ducray - Single Review: Monster
26 May 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Michèle Ducray welcomes us to the circus with her haunting new single Monster. Filled with warped carnival beats and eerie vocals, it's a Halloween anthem perfectly tailored for "fans of the peculiar".
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Jessica Leigh - Single Review: Wired
26 May 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Jessica Leigh’s new single Wired is a curious mix of upbeat pop and melancholic tones through jaded lyrics; “I’m getting tired, so I’m getting wired”. The lyrics in this track are heavily repetitive in part and given space to breathe in others, whilst carried by a fast moving and ever-changing bed of 80’s inspired music.
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Davidda - Single Review: Bear
25 May 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Davidda’s latest single release is Bear, the third in a successful string of releases. In this track indie-artist Davidda brings together musicians Anna Coddington (guitar and production), Mike Hall (Bass), Caleb Nott (keyboard) and Lips (synth).
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Corrella - Album Review: Road From 26
25 May 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Auckland 7-piece band, Corrella are back and this time they’ve bought with them their brand new album, Road From 26. The 9 track album is quite simply, a stunner.
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This Silent Divide - Single Review: Beautiful Creature
25 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Wellington-based melodic hard rock quartet This Silent Divide, entitled Beautiful Creature. I really enjoyed their Tall Stories EP, and they played a great gig at Dead Witch towards the end of last year, and this would have been recorded at about the same time.
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The Flow Collective - Single Review: Final Whistle
25 May 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Whanganui based band The Flow Collective launch their latest single Final Whistle today, Friday 26th May. The group released their debut album Flow last year, a collection of compositions by lead vocalist and pianist Elizabeth de Vegt, with lyrics taken from the poems of Airini Beautrais' collection Flow: Whanganui River Poems.
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Underwire - Single Review: Gravity
25 May 2023 // A review by taffynz
I like Underwire. I've been privileged to catch this Wellington-based punk/indie band live a number of times, going back a few years.
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Psycho Gab - Single Review: Messy
25 May 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Auckland five-piece Psycho Gab make their mark on the local music scene with their debut single, Messy. Fusing neo-soul and R&B into an engaging, easily consumable number, it's an exciting introduction to the band.
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Impostor Syndrome - Single Review: See Everything
25 May 2023 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
Impostor Syndrome’s latest track, See Everything opens with the lonesome jangle of a twelve-string acoustic guitar, making for an interesting introduction. Such an instrument is more common in genres that don’t have the same edge as your typical alternative rock track, but when the bass and drums kick in after the first phrase suddenly the listener is transported away from acoustic folk to something much grungier.
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Emily Rice - Gig Review: Emily Rice @ Your Local Coffee Roasters, Pukekohe - 24/05/2023
24 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this week I had a message from Emily Rice asking me if I lived in South Auckland. When I responded I did, she asked if I would be interested in coming along to an event she was putting on in a coffee shop in Pukekohe to celebrate the release of her new single, Warenoa.
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Torn Chorus - Single/Video Review: Time I Wasn't Here
22 May 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Torn Chorus’ latest single Time I Wasn't Here is a mid-tempo rocker that is a pleasant, country tinged song with a not so hidden meaning. The act is a one man band, Franklin Davis, who plays all the instruments and performs all the vocals capably in a no-nonsense approach.
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Mel Parsons - Gig Review: Mel Parsons @ Galatos, Auckland - 19/05/2023
22 May 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Talking about her career in an interview, Mel Parsons had said she was "grateful for the slow burn." Five albums in, tonight was a chance to hear that hard work distilled, as she moved between the decades of her life through music and shared her experiences of motherhood in her latest single release, Tiny Days.
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Dillastrate - Single Review: I'm Crazy
22 May 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Dillastrate, the powerhouse duo from down Christchurch ways, have released another fantastic single that is sure to get you moving and grooving. I’m Crazy dropped at the start of May Music Month and is already making waves and amassing plays, demonstrating that it's been well-received by their fans.
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Sounds Escape - Single Review: Haunted
22 May 2023 // A review by taffynz
Sounds Escape is the project band name of one-man show Logan Wedgwood. The release of the EP Echo Cinema sees Logan releasing the track Haunted as the EP's promo single.
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Drop Off Point - EP Review: Bridge City Crew
21 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back in 1991, bassist Jorge 'Hoya Roc' Guerra took over from the legend that is Roger Minet in the Agnostic Front side-project Madball, since when he has been a constant alongside Freddy Cricien. He now has a new claim to fame, providing a shoutout to his favourite Kiwi band at the beginning of this EP.
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Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields - Single Review: Your Heart of Gold
21 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have a brand-new partnership from two artists who have already made names for themselves performing solo, and although they are both proud Kiwis, they have each won The Music Victoria Awards. Even though Matt Joe Gow only released his latest album a few months ago, this new partnership is already touring the country performing songs from their catalogues as well as new ones they have been writing and recording, of which this is the first.
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Gig Review: The Titans Tour @ 12 Bar, Christchurch - 18/05/2023
21 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
12 Bar is one of many venues that Christchurch is fortunate to have, proud and passionate supporters of the local music scene. Upon entering its warmth from a slightly damp and cold evening, I found a well-stocked merch table, and had a nice catch up with a familiar face as I treated myself to bit of the selection of home-town heroes, Pieces Of Molly.
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21 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
12 Bar is one of many venues that Christchurch is fortunate to have, proud and passionate supporters of the local music scene. Upon entering its warmth from a slightly damp and cold evening, I found a well-stocked merch table, and had a nice catch up with a familiar face as I treated myself to bit of the selection of home-town heroes, Pieces Of Molly.
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Allophones - Single Review: Eyeball
21 May 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Dunedin trio The Allophones are bringing back the Sex Pistols era of punk into a modern society that desperately needs a rebellious spirit.Their newest track Eyeball is a solid presentation with plenty of differing sections - from clean to hard-hitting, head banging riffs and a dynamic range of vocals all densely packed into this 3-and-a-half-minute demonstration.
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Mikey Videotape - Single Review: The Strangest Dream
19 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Some years back I was asked by AAA Records if I would write the press release for the debut album by a young Auckland-based prog band to which of course I agreed and in due course I was speaking to singer Michael Brown of Outside In about their incredible release, Karmatrain. I have been fortunate enough to see them play a few times since then, while Michael has also been guesting with other people plus also putting videos up on Facebook of him singing covers.
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Coast Arcade - EP Review: Next To Me
19 May 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
“Let's Go!” I say out loud while I listen to the first verse on Coast Arcade's new EP Next To Me.
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Sam Cullen - Single Review: Forever
19 May 2023 // A review by taffynz
80's! It was a place, not just a time.
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IVY - Single Review: Heartless
19 May 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Ivy are easily one of the more sonically ambitious bands that you can hear from Aotearoa New Zealand currently. Heartless is their latest work following on from last year's EP For The Sake of It, where it would not sound at all out of place.
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Cautionary Tales - Single Review: No Funeral Blues
19 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Cautionary Tales are a multi-international band in that they are mostly based in Berlin, as well as Aotearoa and NYC and feature Will Marshall (vocals, keyboards), Karl Weber (guitar, backing vocals), Martyn Matthews (synthesizers, Rhodes, Hammond), Taylor Mallo (bass) and David Binnie (drums), with contributions from Kyle Hussa-Lietz (guitars). They describe themselves as an art rock collective, and to me that is a fair description although in many ways they are more in the krautrock mode for the music, with Tangerine Dream being an obvious point of reference, although there are also some elements of Floyd.
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Barry Saunders - Barry Saunders & Adam Hattaway - Single Review: Keep On
19 May 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Keep On is the title track of a Warratahs album released in 2006 (don’t mind that Spotty-fi has it as 2020). An almost lost song, as was the album, but a classic Barry Saunders story centred around someone, could be an acrobat, somewhere, where they don’t want to be, meeting a woman who shakes stars from her hair, dreaming in the morning, drinking in the afternoon, realising that love is the only thing missing, and therefore it must be plain sailing from here, just keep on, keep on, keep on.
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Will Luhrs - Single Review: Our Masquerade
19 May 2023 // A review by Catherine Bullock
With soulful influences, Christchurch-based Will Luhrs and Just Monet have released Our Masquerade, a mellow ballad featuring some fantastic saxophone lines from Just Monet. Our Masquerade is reminiscent of old-school jazz ballads, speaking on being true to yourself and giving yourself time to grow.
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Retro Valley - Single Review: Backseat Lovers
19 May 2023 // A review by Paul Goddard
Right from the opening bars of Backseat Lovers by Hamilton-based Retro Valley it is clear that this song is pure class.This 3-minute tune is a next-level lesson in how to create, perform and produce a pop/indie classic.
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Murmur Tooth - Murmur Tooth and Lars Moston - Album Review: No Time To Explain
19 May 2023 // A review by Paul Goddard
Collaborations can work. Sometimes they do most of the time they don't.
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Adam McGrath - Gig Review: Adam McGrath @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 18/05/2023
18 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I first saw Adam McGrath play with his band The Eastern I came away incredibly impressed, the same again when I saw him solo, and then when I heard his amazing album Good Companions I knew I just had to see him again. It has taken until tonight for the stars to align, but here I am back at Tuning Fork, waiting for the man himself to come onto the stage.
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Boom! Boom! Deluxe! - Single/Video Review: Leopard Print
16 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Sassy, saucy, spunky, style, spark, and swagger. My mind filled with all of those "S" words upon watching and listening to Leopard Print, the new single/video from Boom!
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James Kohler - Single Review: Rhea
15 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Rhea is the latest single from Auckland-based James Kohler, a seasoned practitioner of "prog-pop/indie psychedelia". Rhea tells the story of the eponymous protagonist's life working in a department store, but it isn't an especially positive story.
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Just Another June - EP Review: Growing Up
15 May 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Hailing from Otautahi, Just Another June are an indie four piece that have dazzled with their second EP, Growing Up with dual singles, Growing Up and I Need to Hear it Sometimes Uniquely balanced, first single, Growing Up has a bit of everything, blending soft rock and indie tones with harmony. It’s a catchy little number about “expressing how challenging stepping into adulthood can be”.
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ISLA - Single Review: Overthinking
15 May 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
In the uncertainty of the world around us; Isla brings us serenity.The voice, the gentle strumming guitar, and calming hum of the bass feels peaceful but also bittersweet.
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Bleeders - Gig Review: Bleeders @ Galatos, Auckland - 12/05/2023
15 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Galatos on a Friday evening for a very special night indeed: Bleeders are celebrating the 20th anniversary of A Bleeding Heart and they have been touring the country to sell-out crowds. I saw them at the same venue last year with Antagonist A.
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Geoff Ong - Single Review: Waiting On What To Say
14 May 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Geoff Ong, a pop artist from Aotearoa has just released a new sparkly upbeat track Waiting On What To Say. Written during a prolonged bout of social anxiety, Ong uses his songwriting as a tool to work through these feelings delivering a fresh upbeat electronic pop track with a message.
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Sofia Machray - Single Review: Petals In The Rain
14 May 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Arrowtown-born, Wellington-based Indie Dream-Pop Fantasizer Sofia Machray recently released her new single Petals In The Rain. Staking her claim in New Zealand's alternative indie scene alongside her 3-piece support band (topping alternative charts in 2020), Machray's strong vocals and lofty melodies provides the listener with a Florence And The Machine vibe.
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Devilskin - Gig Review: Devilskin @ Ngaio Marsh Theatre, Christchurch - 12/05/2023
14 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Devilskin have an excellent reputation as not only one of New Zealand's hardest working bands, but also as genuinely lovely people. I will second that reputation, adamantly.
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Saharaa - Single Review: Never Leave
12 May 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Solo-act Saharaa has released her debut single Never Leave. The song was written by Saharaa and produced by Will Henderson (CHAII, Niko Walters and Abby Christo).
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Mazbou Q - SURVIVR6 - EP Review: Metahuman
11 May 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
This latest EP release, Metahuman, immerses listeners in a captivating cinematic journey from its very first note. With an infusion of sounds and concepts reminiscent of high-budget modern action films, the EP exudes an undeniable sense of intensity and potency that is instantly evident on the opening track, BBDO.
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No Broadcast - Album Review: The Common Thread
11 May 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
No Broadcast started out in the noughties and started releasing their music in 2011, when commonly regarded as a three piece. Two EPs and three albums later the band has evolved into a musical collective which is predominantly the vehicle for musician and vocalist Josh Braden’s eclectic soundscape experimentation.
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Valley Kids - Single Review: Otherside
10 May 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Poneke based Valley Kids have been drawing a career arc that continues upward from their first release in 2020, and with the support of NZ On Air the four piece have released their third single Otherside. Right from the opening guitar refrain, it's clear what an experienced and cohesive unit this is.
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Raw Collective - Single Review: Simple Times
09 May 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
I’m not here to list off Raw Collective’s pedigree. Where they come from, where they’ve been, where they are, and where they’re going.
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Kaylee Bell - Gig Review: Kaylee Bell @ James Hay Theatre, Christchurch - 7/05/2023
09 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I had a fantastic seat for this show, smack bang in the middle and a few rows back from the front. Absolutely perfect spot for viewing and listening.
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Job Site - EP Review: Job Site
09 May 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Job Site is a band of great cultural significance formed one weekend in the Waikato with the power of a box of Waikato. They play terrible (their words, not mine) high-energy garage rock.
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Bleeders - Gig Review: Bleeders @ The Embankment Tavern, Christchurch - 6/05/2023
09 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I'm glad I arrived as early as I did, to secure a good spot to plonk myself to watch the show, as the place filled up pretty fast. The Embankment Tavern's owner, Martin Mantell, is a huge fan and staunch supporter of live music, and kudos are due to him for developing The Embankment into such a popular venue, hosting some fantastic shows.
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Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields - Gig Review: Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields @ Pah Homestead, Auckland - 7/05/2023
09 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back to Pah Homestead for the second time this year, but for an indoor gig this time to catch Matt Joe Gow on his latest tour. The first time I saw Matt was in the same venue a few years ago, but tonight he was not performing solo but as part of a duo with Kerryn Fields.
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Loveta - Single Review: Take It Slow
08 May 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Christchurch artist Loveta releases her first single for 2023 with the heart-wrenching rock ballad Take It Slow. The opening bars allow the listener to really immerse in the fullness of Loveta’s beautiful voice, with just the guitar for accompaniment, producing what I find to be a really quite distinctly kiwi sound.
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Rita Mae - Gig Review: Rita Mae @ Whammy, Auckland - 5/05/2023
08 May 2023 // A review by CuillinHearty
Fresh off her two shows with the legendary Broods, Rita Mae caused a stir at the iconic Whammy Bar in Auckland on Friday night, as she threw her release party for her debut EP Superfeeling. The atmosphere was electric, with excitement in the air as family, friends, and fans eagerly awaited her performance.
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1 Drop Nation - Single Review: I'm Home
08 May 2023 // A review by River Tucker
When it comes to reggae music 1 Drop Nation's latest single, I'm Home, hits all the right notes. Soulful melodies, tight rhythms, and on-point vocals impart a feel-good vibe that will get you chilling or up and dancing, whatever mood you're in.
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Raymond Sunshine - Single Review: Over and Over
08 May 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
This will be the first time I’ve heard Raymond Sunshine, their new track Over and Over came out very recently and it’s a fun 3.5 min banger with relatable life lyrics, tasty musicianship, funky artwork and a well refined sound.
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Napoleon Baby - Single Review: (Jessica) To Barcelona
07 May 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Napoleon Baby is a one man musician creating timeless but solid art in the form of their debut single, (Jessica) To Barcelona from their forthcoming debut album. Upon first listen, there are a few things this single remind me of personally; The Doors meet The Beatles with a generous helping of The Beach Boys.
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Justin Sane - Single Review: Justin Sane & Huz - Our Way
07 May 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based electronic music duo veteran DJ Justin Sane (ex-UK) and fellow singer/songwriter Huz have recently released their latest single Our Way, creating a clean irresistible beat while showcasing the powerful harmonious vocals of Huz. Expertly mixed, the pair have created yet another banger which could easily transcend from clubs to airwaves.
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Bad Llamas - Single Review: Can't Take You Anywhere
05 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Bad Llamas are based in my hometown of Christchurch, so I have encountered their name before, however this was my first time listening to their self-described "Indie/Pop/Rock" sound.As Can't Take You Anywhere opens, it would be easy to be fooled into thinking this will unfold into a sweetly pretty pop song, and stay around about there.
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Ekko Park - Single Review: Outrun The Rain
05 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first saw Ekko Park many years ago, but in the last year or so I have managed to see them a few times, and my only question to myself is why have I not been following them around? Drummer Nick Douch has a solid style, and he understand the importance of not playing, as much as playing (the introduction only has a kick drum), which is a rare skill.
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Powder Chutes - Single Review: Moths to the Flame
05 May 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Wanaka’s Powder Chutes are hitting hard into 2023 with the release of their new single Moths to the Flame. Coming off the back of 2022 EP Sweet Noise Pollution as well as some impressive live shows, the power house four piece are back with a big track of anthemic rock.
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Phoebe Vic - EP Review: Strange Rituals
05 May 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi pop artist Phoebe Vic launches her EP Strange Rituals today, 5th May. The follow up project to her 2015 EP Hunter, Strange Rituals sees Phoebe Vic come into her own with a quartet of highly polished electro pop tunes.
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Jazmine Mary - Single Review: Wet Mouth
05 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have been fortunate enough to see Jazmine Mary play twice, and if one wonders what their musical style is like then it would not be too far into left field to say combine the artists I have seen them open for, namely French For Rabbits and Reb Fountain. They capture the dream state of both, taking the influences of Reb even further into folk noir territory with a melancholy and style all their own.
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Drop Off Point - Single Review: People Die Feat. Wisdom In Chains
04 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Hamilton-based hardcore crew Drop Off Point have been making quite a name for themselves recently, playing with the likes of Comeback Kid, Evergreen Terrace, Bleeders and Antagonist A.D.
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These Four Walls - Single Review: Carousel
04 May 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Aotearoa-born and Queensland-based rockers These Four Walls’ mission is well and truly on the move. That mission is to further evolve from their previous LP This is Not a Future, from 2020.
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October Sewn - Single Review: Too Close For Comfort
04 May 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
October Sewn from Auckland is the stage name for singer/songwriter and producer Kristyan Kolarski. Born in Bulgaria and raised in New Zealand.
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Magnalith - EP Review: Oblivion
04 May 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Every so often, a musical effort comes along that reinvents the wheel- Magnalith, I believe - has done that. Oblivion is a beautiful cacophony of aggression and melancholy.
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Husband Material - Single Review: Raindrop
04 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Auckland jazz trio Husband Material have their debut album coming out later this year, and prior to that they have released the single Raindrop to give us a taste of what is to come. Although the three of them all play multiple instruments, this sounds very much like a live recording with minor overdubs, which does somewhat restrict that aspect, so we have Ayden Geerligs (bass) Levi de Lisle (drums) and Noah Chitty (vocals, piano, keyboards).
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Dilz - Single Review: Mentality
03 May 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Dilz' latest track, Mentality, is a focused and polished work that showcases his unwavering dedication to his craft. The song's beat slowly develops, creating a sense of determination that is further reinforced by the lyrics, "Wake up in morning with a hustler mentality," in the first chorus.
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Orangefarm - Single Review: Inheritance
03 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Inheritance is the second single from Orangefarm's forthcoming album of the same name, where frontman Nigel Mitchell was convinced by old friend and producer Rob Mayes to get back in the studio and undertake everything a little more seriously. Mitchell has been recording under this name for more than twenty years, and here we have him accompanying himself on a descending guitar pattern, with former bassist Celia McAlpine joining on parts of the song , also providing some harmonies to turn it into more of a duet.
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tei. - Single Review: Primal
02 May 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Tamaki Makaurau alternative RnB artist tei. released her new single Primal on the 21st of April.
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Neive Strang Music - Gig Review: Neive Strang @ Whammy Backroom, Auckland - 29/04/2023
02 May 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Neive Strang recently brought her Living in Two Aotearoa tour to Tamaki Makarau, Auckland. She delivered a set that felt full of certainty, with her blues, folk and rock songs.
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Tom Knowles - Single/Video Review: My People
01 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
It does not take very much to recognise one of Tom Knowles’ main inspirations, as this has the stamp of Troy Kingi all over it, although one must say this is delivered with a much broader sense of humour. It is interesting to hear just how light-hearted this is, as the chorus has “My People Once Were Warriors”, a reference to what is widely regarded as the finest New Zealand film ever made, a violent and incredibly disturbing movie which included Cliff Curtis amongst its cast.
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Rehaab - Single/Video Review: Twisted Fool
01 May 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Rehaab will tell you that they're a "Stoner funk psychedelic blues rock eight-armed animal" of a band, and I see no reason to disagree. In fact, having checked out the video to new single Twisted Fool, I'd have to say that's a pretty accurate description A darkly suggestive little riff from guitarist Mutt kicks things into gear, with the engine room of drummer Grant and bassist Larry not far behind, laying down a superbly solid, stonkin' blues rock groove.
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Devilskin - Gig Review: Devilskin @ The Royal, Palmerston North - 28/04/2023
30 Apr 2023 // A review by River Tucker
It was well worth getting in early to catch Devilskin’s exclusive VIP performance at The Royal in Palmerston North last Friday night. Following on from a successful show at Homegrown, Devilskin has embarked on their much-anticipated nationwide Let Me Breathe tour, brought to you by The Rock, after a short hiatus that, if anything, has made their current shows all the more sweet.
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Crooked Royals - Gig Review: Crooked Royals @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 29/04/2023
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back to Whammy Bar for the first time in ages for what was a sell-out gig. Crooked Royals were back in town, having opened the tour last night at Valhalla in Wellington.
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Rehaab - Single Review: Fat Boy (State Highway Queen)
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
That is not a typo above, as the band’s name actually is Rehaab, taken from what was referred to as the traditional Blues "AAB" format, and they feel they combine Blues Rock, Blues, Stoner Blues, Funk, Rock Ballads, Psychedelic and Classic Rock, so pretty much what I grew up on then. If you were a teenager in the Seventies then blues rock was the basis of much you listened to, and when I hear music like this it always makes me feel at home.
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Ravenhall - Album Review: Live at Brebs
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Guitarist Joe Ravenhall and singer Chris Brebner formed Ravenhall back in 2015, writing more than 100 songs together before recruiting drummer Damian Hilt and bassist Alan Treanor to fill out their sound. I was a big fan of their The Coming Storm EP from 2021, so I was keen to hear the new album to see what had been happening in the intervening time, and although I had no idea quite what to expect I am sure it was not this!
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Moses Mackay - Album Review: Grace
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
The rich velvety vocals of Moses Mackay are well known as a member of New Zealand's highest selling classical trio Sol3 Mio. Eventually branching out to create his original debut album Grace, Mackay delivers ten superb soulful tracks with influences by classical, orchestral and cinematic genres.
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Dead Favours - Gig Review: Dead Favours @ Meow, Wellington - 27/04/2023
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Meow was humming on Thursday night as the locals awaited two Auckland bands and a Wellingtonian act to entertain them. Rock and roll legends Dead Favours, on tour for their second six-track EP Riffing and Yelling Part 2 (or the second part of their second album if you want to think about it that way) were headlining, bringing with them pop-punks Ekko Park.
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Crooked Royals - Gig Review: Crooked Royals @ Valhalla, Wellington - 28/04/2023
30 Apr 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Valhalla was surely over their capacity on Friday night when Auckland metalcore juggernauts Crooked Royals headlined a very quickly sold out show. It was standing room only within the small club, but there was a palpable, even friendly excitement in the cramped conditions.
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The Exponents - Gig Review: The Exponents @ Auckland Town Hall, Auckland - 28/04/2023
28 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Just over 40 years ago, singer Jordan Luck and guitarist Brian Jones decided the future was no longer in Timaru with their band Basement, and along with their bass-playing mate Steve Cowan relocated to Christchurch. It was here they came across drummer Michael 'Harry' Harallambi and bassist David Gent and they were such a good fit that Steve decided to switch to keyboards and guitar, and The Dance Exponents were born.
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Stretch - Gig Review: Stretch @ Common Room, Hastings - 27/04/2022
28 Apr 2023 // A review by Rob Harbers
In honour of his turangawaewae, Stretch is playing 3 nights running across the battered, but resolute, province of Hawkes Bay, from Napier in the north to the very southern tip, his original hometown of Dannevirke. This set of shows carries the moniker of 'My Heart, My Home' - a reflection of their ethos, which is to seek to bring a small degree of healing to this traumatised area.
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Rebecca Rice - Single Review: Dear Best Friend
27 Apr 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Armed with a ukulele and her singer-songwriter charms, Rebecca Rice is out to celebrate friendship on her debut single Dear Best Friend. The West Auckland artist has been quietly making music for over ten years, but we can only now finally welcome her into the world of official public releases.
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Holloway - Single Review: Crush
27 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across the live monster which is Holloway at CrushFest last year at Tuning Fork when Lou Valentine (vocals, guitar), Max Long (guitar) and Taylor Criscuola (drums) ended the night. Since then, they have been making the trek north to Auckland fairly regularly as these Wellington lads are very much in demand up here, and deservedly so.
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Sylvee - EP Review: Downpour
27 Apr 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Nelson creator Sylvee's sophomore EP Downpour is a shimmering study of the artist behind each hook. A thematic exploration of the phrase "sink or swim", it's a dark pop extravaganza amongst the country's absolute best.
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Tiny Ruins - Album Review: Ceremony
27 Apr 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Covid is still all around, but the alienation and dysfunction has gone, yet here we are, still salvaging the experiences of just before and during the world of hidden people and silent things. We’ve just experienced the hero’s journey of Finn Andrews as he comes out of the void to find love, and now we are simply blessed by the pain in the lyrics of the songs which Hollie Fullbrook started writing four years ago and longer and now find catharsis in the music of Tiny Ruins.
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Anderson Rocio - Single Review: You, The Sea and I
26 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
One never knows what quite to expect from Anderson Rocio, as she keeps changing her style, so while one can always be guaranteed a wonderful vocal performance and nice melodies, how will they be presented? I have seen her perform sitting at a grand piano accompanying herself, while her last EP was far more rock based, and now here we find her on another journey.
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Viices - Single Review: Sandcastle
26 Apr 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Today is the day Viices’s new song Sandcastle comes out! The band’s name has been around the live music circuits of Aotearoa for about eight years, under varying iterations of personnel, but the heart and soul of Viices remained.
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Dead Favours - Gig Review: Dead Favours @ Loons, Lyttelton - 21/04/2023
25 Apr 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
This gig marked my first visit to The Loons, a venue in Lyttelton, Christchurch with an almost nostalgic NZ school/church/rural town hall type vibe, in an excellent way. It looks to have quite a decent capacity, and it's a shame that more of that capacity wasn't occupied with punters tonight, to witness the onslaught of quality rock & roll that was served up.
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Ben Horlock - Single Review: This Ain't The End
24 Apr 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
At only nineteen years old, Dunedin up-and-comer Ben Horlock has plenty to say about the world on his fresh release This Ain't The End. Recorded at Parachute Studios, it's a gripping track blending elements of pop, indie, trap and folk into one striking commercial concoction.
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The RVMES - Single Review: Say Something
23 Apr 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based four piece The RVMES (pronounced Rooms, a mix of rum and tunes incorporating a cheeky V where the U should be), have just released their latest single Say Something. The genre defying band which produces a “musical stir fry” of ever changing sound has delivered a reggae/jazz inspired track that captures the essence of a warm summer evening.
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End Boss - Gig Review: End Boss @ Darkroom, Christchurch - 22/04/2023
22 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, I was supposed to be at Whammy Bar in Auckland, but that gig fell through, which led to me having a conversation with my wife which resulted in my flying home for the weekend so we could see End Boss together. Sara’s views on music and mine are pretty much diametrically opposed, but the lead singer of the Wellington band is the sister of one of her best mates, which meant that after more than 30 years together this would be the first time she had ever attended a metal gig.
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Zephyr Love - Album Review: Homage
21 Apr 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
If you like your rock retro, California retro with more than a hint of Boston, you’ll like the debut album from Chris McCollum under the moniker Zephyr Love, which is out now and will be featured live at the Anthology Lounge this Saturday night. The album is called Homage and it certainly is.
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Mark Mclachlan - Single Review: All Your Dreams
20 Apr 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
The multi-talented Taranaki soloist Mark Mclachlan is inviting us into his world of rock-driven funky blues with his new release All Your Dreams; a feel-good, chill anthem showcasing his guitar prowess and ability to string together satisfying melodies and “stank face” inducing solos. The mix is crisp, layers add depth and texture and the instrumentation is admirable.
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Borderline - Single Review: Going Home (Bitter)
20 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from teen alt pop indie band Borderline, and I can hear from this as to why they have been making such an impression on the scene. They have just completed a quick four date jaunt to promote this, but are playing again soon in their home city of Auckland, and it will certainly be interesting to compare their live sound with what I am currently listening to as this has been very heavily layered and produced indeed, and I am sure they are somewhat rockier and abrasive at gigs.
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The Boondocks - Single Review: Alone
20 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut single from The Boondocks, a young rock duo I have caught live a few times over the last six months or so and who made it through to the final of the Ding Dong Lounge Battle of the Bands towards the end of last year. Comprising Scott Parker (bass, vocals) and Brandon Pritchard (drums), they have an unusual approach in that Scott puts his bass through a pedal board which allows himself to create a thick guitar sound when he wishes, so they often sound more like a trio than a duo, crunching the riffs, but also mixing it up so that we get different layers of sound, quite different to many of the other duos on the circuit as he is playing a bass and coming to a guitar sound from that level, as opposed to playing guitar directly.
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Damien Binder - Album Review: Bright Side
20 Apr 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Damien Binder’s new album Bright Side has been toiling away in the background for nearly three weeks now, trying to connect. There’s something vaguely familiar about the sound and about that voice and the name also rings a bell louder than the natural conclusion that it’s just a good rock n roll name.
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Grant Haua - Gig Review: Grant Haua @ Auckland Blues Music Club, Auckland - 19/04/2023
19 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight was my first trip to ABMC, which takes place every two weeks at Harlequin Bar & Function Rooms in Pt Chevalier. At their jam nights people are invited to come up and play, but they also have guest musicians and tonight Grant Haua was in Auckland so I knew this was one I could not miss (even though it was the second school night in a row).
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Soft Plastics - Album Review: Saturn Return
19 Apr 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Are Soft Plastics contemporary myth makers? Yes.
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Thousand Limbs - Single Review: A Boundless Heart
19 Apr 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Thousand Limbs are an Auckland instrumental metal powerhouse that take no prisoners with their blend of Doom, Hardcore and Post-Metal. A Boundless Heart is their third single off their upcoming debut album - The Aurochs.
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Villainy - Gig Review: Villainy @ Trust Stadium, Auckland - 18/04/2023
18 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
So, a school night found me making my way out to Trusts for the first time in many years – in fact, I think the last time I was here was when Slipknot played, supported by Machine Head. Tonight, we were seeing Papa Roach and The Used, who originally were not supposed to be playing in NZ at all, but there was such a clamour from fans wanting to see the tour which was only organized for Aus that in the end the bands arranged their own one-night-only gig in Auckland.
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Rust NZ - Single Review: Connection
18 Apr 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
OK, full disclosure: I stuck my hand up for this review, because I know Kyle Hawkes (vocals) personally. I jammed with Kyle a few years ago, when he was still finding his feet as a vocalist.
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Vana - Single Review: Crawling
17 Apr 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
We creep into the mind of Vana with a new bewitching single entitled Crawling, that tells the truth about seeing life through rose-coloured glasses. With two years in the making, this single highlights a personal, emotional experience.
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Darklight Corporation - Single Review: Monogod
16 Apr 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
“Holy riff, Darklight Corporation are back??” were the first words I uttered aloud when this new single metaphorically landed in my lap.
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Superturtle - Single Review: Robert De Niro
14 Apr 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The latest release from Auckland's Superturtle is a darkly pretty post-punk gem, an absolute banger. Robert De Niro comes hot on the heels of Right The Wrong, released earlier in 2023.
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Achilles Complex - EP Review: Brand New World
13 Apr 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Achilles Complex has just released their debut EP Brand New World and for those familiar with the bands previous work and live shows, they have certainly delivered on a brand new world of music. Incorporating synth wave and its sub genres with their progressive rock/metal sound, along with an entire conceptual storyline, lyrically and musically, they deliver a complex work for our ears.
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Rocket Berry - Single Review: Caught Up In The Fiction
13 Apr 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
With the comforting click of a tape, Wellington act Rocket Berry's brand-new single Caught Up In The Fiction bursts into action. It's a glittering synth-folk track quite unlike anything else on the current market.
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Somebody Do Something - Album Review: As Rome Burns
13 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut album A Rome Burns from Otautahi/Christchurch based six-piece Somebody Do Something, who describe their music as pop-funk-dance with some influences of reggae, rock and jazz, except they somewhat understate this. Comprising of Grace Stainthorpe (violin and backing vocals), Ash Perry (drums), Marlee Fay (vocals), Austyn Mills (bass and backing vocals), Wilson Reveley (saxophone), and Callum Margetts (guitar and backing vocals), we have a band who are creating a true melting pot of genre-bending music which changes as they work through the different songs on the album.
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Eliezer - Album Review: Kingdom Come
13 Apr 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Eliezer is a rising artist in the hip-hop scene, and his latest album Kingdom Come showcases his undeniable talent and passion for music. Produced in collaboration with Ten.
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Lizzy Kula - Single Review: I Dreamt About You
12 Apr 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Lizzy Kula shares a hypnotic new pop song that welcomes us to dance and possibly cry. Entitled I Dreamt About You, it’s a fresh debut for her but you couldn’t tell because she has utilised the structure of a good classic pop song.
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Sea Mouse - Single Review: Gearbox
12 Apr 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's Sea Mouse are back with a ferocious new single Gearbox, taking things up several notches with an all-out rock and roll party banger, sure to get the adrenaline pumping on the mosh floor. Led by charismatic frontman and guitarist Seamus Johnson, this song is backed by the finely polished rhythm machine of bassist Scott Maynard and drummer Thomas Friggens.
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David Sutton - Album Review: Cat Food
11 Apr 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I'd not heard any of David Sutton's previous releases, before being given this one to review. Which is surprising, given the impressive number of albums released, Cat Food being number ten.
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InDuna - Single/Video Review: Dreams
08 Apr 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Ink and Gold: An Artist’s Journey to Olympic Glory is a documentary about New Zealand artist and athlete, Zakea Page, winning the Lausanne 2020 Youth Olympic Games medal design competition. It’s an engaging short film to say the least, with a message about persevering despite the odds and celebrating the intersection of passions, in this case, sport and art.
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Mini Simmons - Album Review: Make Up
05 Apr 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
I knew I was in for a treat when Auckland based blues rock band Mini Simmons came into my orbit. The band with a moody 70's vibe have recently released their latest album Make Up.
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Splendid - Single Review: Perspective
05 Apr 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Brodie MacDonald of Splendid perfectly nails the indie vocal sound on her new single Perspective. The production is sweet, spacious, and snappy, and there is a real maturity to the track.
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The Bob Lazar Story - EP Review: The Bob Lazarus Chronicles Pt 1: Foodstool Resurrection
05 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
All one really needs to know about Matt Deacon, is that he describes himself as a “purveyor of tritonal wankery” while he also has a somewhat unhealthy fascination with footstools and coffee cups (for example, the cover of Baritonia is the stain left by the coffee cup on Self Loathing Joe). This album title is of course a homage to 2014’s excellent Ghost of Foodstool, and finds Matt pursuing a musical course which is both related to, and quite different, from what he has previously been doing.
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WILDA - Single Review: Going Wild
05 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
It was some time ago when I saw Mema Wilda play a gig at The Tuning Fork, where she accompanied herself on an acoustic and was joined by just one other musician. I thoroughly enjoyed what I heard, and then the next time I heard her was when she performed on the single Where We’ll Go with Sam Bartells, but that was nearly two years ago and somehow I have missed seeing her since then.
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Coridian - Coridian @ Tuning Fork, Auckland - 01/04/2023
05 Apr 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
How could I miss this? Some of my personal favourite alt-rock acts in Tamaki Makaurau, at one of the best live venues in town.
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Ella Pollett - Single Review: When I'm Gone
04 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Ella Pollett is a young (17) singer/songwriter from Hawke’s Bay who has already seen some success with Smokefree Rockquest, and will soon be playing her biggest gig to date when she opens for Rod Stewart at the Mission concert. This is her third single, following on from 2021’s Hold On, which like When I’m Gone assisted Ella in winning her section in the regional heats of SFRQ.
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Corrella - Single Review: Little Circles
04 Apr 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Corrella are a 7-piece roots reggae band, formed in 2017 and hailing from Auckland’s North Shore, and named after Corrella Road in Belmont. Having released their debut single, Summertime in Aotearoa back in 2020, their debut EP soon followed in 2021, with three of those tracks making in onto the NZ Music Charts - an impressive feat for any rising band.
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YAHYAH - Single/Video Review: Go
03 Apr 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Up and coming artist YAHYAH released her new single and video Go with nearly 7,000 streams on Spotify so far! She’s an electro-pop goddess from Aotearoa, hoping to make her entry to the big world of music.
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Tomahawk Radio - Single Review: Missiles
03 Apr 2023 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
Dunedin band, Tomahawk Radio’s latest single Missiles is the first release off their upcoming album. Reading the bands incredible and inspiring story makes me feel really quite lucky that we get to hear this music.
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Estère - Gig Review: Estère @ Meow, Wellington - 01/04/2023
03 Apr 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
It’s tough to get Wellingtonians out of their house lately, given the region’s recent brutal cold spell. Yet it speaks to Estère’s power that music lovers came out in vast numbers to see the local legend take the stage at Meow on this busy Saturday night.
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Kazia - Single Review: Seven Foot Wall
02 Apr 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this year I caught up with Kazia for the first time, a band which comprises people who are all involved in other outfits, so we have singer Phoebe Walsh (Brown Sugar Factory), drummer Oliver Prendergast (Strangely Arousing), bassist/flautist Michael Anderson (The Vibes) and keyboard player Michael Ligani (Big Tasty). Musically this is a group who are heavily into soul, jazz, pop and groove, and having seen both Strangely Arousing and Big Tasty in concert I can see how well those bands align with this one.
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The Veils - Gig Review: The Veils @ The Powerstation, Auckland - 1/04/2023
02 Apr 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The much-anticipated album release tour by The Veils finished in Auckland last night at the Powerstation. And Out of the Void Came Love is an epic offering of songs which see Finn Andrews oscillate between his solo self and his bandleader self as he completes the transition in his life from incessant touring and writing and fronting his English and London based band to a quieter life back home in New Zealand with new found family bliss and the chance to breathe and live, despite the frustrations of the last few Covid years.
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The Loving Arms - Album Review: Dreaming Over You
01 Apr 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Auckland quintet The Loving Arms have released their debut album, Dreaming Over You, just a few weeks ago, after a two-year journey made longer by the conviction that better music comes from having other people in the room. Not for these guys the convenience of recording in isolation.
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Dead Empire - Single Review: Buckley
30 Mar 2023 // A review by Kris Raven
Mount Maunganui’s Dead Empire have been creating waves throughout the Aotearoa music scene recently, their name has been coming up on my radar via various shows throughout the North Island. The feedback I have heard from musicians and fans alike about their solid live performance and vibe with comparisons to the likes of bands like Tool have left me very intrigued.
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Dead Favours - Album Review: Riffing & Yelling Part 2
30 Mar 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
One can only imagine what New Zealand’s alt-rock royalty Dead Favours have experienced over the past 18-plus months crafting their new EP, enduring release delays whilst juggling life and working, on top of navigating the weirdness of the past few years. (Come to think, I CAN imagine since my band has been through the same thing BUT this isn’t about me, haha) For those not in the know, this four-piece from Tamaki Makaurau Auckland consists of guitar player and frontman Jared Wrennall, drummer Charlie Smith, guitarist Kyle Wetton, and Alex Elvis on bass guitar.
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Curlys Jewels - Single Review: Changes
30 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is not a cover of the well-known Black Sabbath number, but instead it is a song written by the band with lyrics by singer Jel; about a close friend losing her partner to cancer, and with the inspiration for the lyrics coming from her memoirs. The rest of the band are Aaron Ludlow (guitar), Andy van der Heyden (bass) and Corey Bell (drums), and over the last ten years Curlys Jewels have built a deserved reputation as one of our most melodic and powerful rock bands and that is yet again what we have here.
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Carb On Carb - Single Review: Grounded
30 Mar 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Carb on Carb is an Auckland duo who have been around for a few years now. They bring a fresh and easy approach to indie rock and have emerged with a new single, Grounded, from their forthcoming album, due out later this year, and soon to be followed by a nationwide tour.
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Tim Finn - Andy White & Tim Finn - Album Review: AT
29 Mar 2023 // A review by taffynz
I still have my original late 70's 7" vinyl single of I Got You by Split Enz, despite emigrating to these shores in early 1997. I wasn't even a teenager in the late 70's.
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The Robba - Album Review: In The Dark
29 Mar 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
In The Dark is the new heavy rock album by New Zealand one man band The Robba, filled with hard-hitting tracks all painstakingly created by himself. Layers of guitar, vocals, synths and beats form a strong foundation for the social narrative woven into this baker’s dozen of lyrical laments.
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Valere - Single/Video Review: Stuck In My Head
29 Mar 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi bedroom pop artist Valere released her latest single Stuck in My Head on the 16th of March.An International Songwriting Competition semi-finalist and APRA Songhubs Sphere alum, Valere's debut album Colours, released in 2020, gained her air play on ZM, Base FM and Spotify playlists such as The Local List NZ.
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The D4 - Gig Review: The D4 @ Totara St, Mount Maunganui - 24/03/2023
25 Mar 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
What a night! If you also had the pleasure of seeing The D4 on any leg of their 21-year anniversary tour of their debut album, 6twenty, then you'll already know what a treat it has been.
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Goodspace - Single Review: Bruises
25 Mar 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
Goodspace are living proof of thinking outside of the box. Their newest single Bruises launches you into its wall of textured sounds and complex, layered melodies with a deep satisfying bassline dancing around the soundscape.
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Bad Taste - Single Review: Weird Weekends
25 Mar 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
Following their 2021 debut record Bad Taste, hip-hop duo Bad Taste have pressed on with making new music, particularly in creating a second album due out later this year, appropriately titled Bad Taste II. Because why would you name it anything else!
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Spirit Boy - Single Review: Neon Sky
24 Mar 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I dragged my feet over this review, seriously let it get overdue, even. I haven't long been doing the reviewing thing here, so I wanted to be really sure about what I wanted to say, with this particular one.
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Frau Knotz - Single/Video Review: Runway of Reality
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
I’d describe the newest single by Frau Knotz as glamorous, playful and psychedelic. To match this description, It has a fitting title Runway of Reality.
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Jennifer K. Austin - Single Review: Cards
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Originally hailing from the States, proud new Kiwi Jennifer K. Austin now sets out on a fresh path with her exciting single Cards.
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Samantha Jane - Single Review: Narcissus
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Opening up on her revealing new single Narcissus, artist Samantha Jane is headed down a new path of musical and sonic vulnerability.Narcissus is a moody indie number with alternative rock and pop embellishments.
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Shepherds Reign - Single Review: Ua Masa’a
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
When it comes to different cultures and music there is no doubt we are incredibly blessed in Aotearoa, and surely anyone into metal, wherever they are in the world, are aware of Alien Weaponry and the way they blend groove metal and their Maori roots. However, what may not be known by those outside New Zealand is that there is another band down here who are also making huge waves in their own country, Shepherds Reign.
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Trig - Double Single Review: Entity & Player 67
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Trig is the musical moniker of Christchurch based artist Michael West, formerly Michael Aisuru, formerly Sick Cycle.After using computers and a few synths to produce music for the past 22 years, Michael has chosen to give up the computer and DAW and focus on live performance via drum machines and modular synthesis.
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Missrosevalentina - Single Review: Planet Intercourse
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
In collaboration with Canadian creative Loz, Wellington's favourite pop star Hybrid Rose is kicking off a new musical era with Planet Intercourse. It's an attention-demanding, explosive disco-pop track the likes of Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa would beg to have.
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Brawler NZHC - EP Review: Hard Truths
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Over the last 12 months I have been fortunate enough to catch Hamilton hardcore outfit Brawler NZHC a few times, and although I have always been a little concerned that singer Joe Steiner is going to pass out before he finally removes the balaclava, I always know we are in for a high energy show with plenty of angst and passion. They have also impressed NZ hardcore royalty along the way, with Luke Manson of Xile joining in on vocals for Pay The Price.
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Grant Duncan - Single/Video Review: Initiate
23 Mar 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Grant Duncan already has an impressive back catalogue of releases on Bandcamp, Soundcloud, YouTube, and Spotify. The Auckland-based singer/songwriter has also spent time fronting the Tokyo-based indie combo Pavement Candy, and the influence of his travels is worn proudly heart-on-sleeve in Initiate.
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Mice on Stilts - Album Review: I Am Proud of You
22 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Some ten years ago I was a member of the ProgArchives Crossover Team (yes, to be allowed to be included on PA each band is judged by a committee). We were asked to pass our critical eyes and ears over the somewhat strangely named Mice on Stilts and I was somewhat surprised, nay amazed, to discover they hailed from Auckland.
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Gig Review #2: Homegrown 2023 @ Wellington Waterfront - 18/03/2023
21 Mar 2023 // A review by River Tucker
The weather gods must really love live music because they fully turned it on for the Jim Beam Homegrown music festival in Wellington last Saturday. Not only were the tunes absolutely fantastic, the crystal clear blue sky followed by a twinkling starry night set a magical scene for thousands of beautiful party people to enjoy some of New Zealand’s biggest bands performing across five stages on the capital’s spectacular waterfront.
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21 Mar 2023 // A review by River Tucker
The weather gods must really love live music because they fully turned it on for the Jim Beam Homegrown music festival in Wellington last Saturday. Not only were the tunes absolutely fantastic, the crystal clear blue sky followed by a twinkling starry night set a magical scene for thousands of beautiful party people to enjoy some of New Zealand’s biggest bands performing across five stages on the capital’s spectacular waterfront.
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Gig Review #1: Homegrown 2023 @ Wellington Waterfront - 18/03/2023
19 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have been waiting for this festival for ages, well over 12 months in fact as last year’s had to be cancelled due to Covid, but finally it was here. I flew down to Wellington in the morning and caught up with the MNZ crew of Reef, River (read River's review here), Amanda, Garry, and Bevan for brunch: two reviewers and four photographers meant we were one of the largest media contingents at Homegrown 2023.
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19 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have been waiting for this festival for ages, well over 12 months in fact as last year’s had to be cancelled due to Covid, but finally it was here. I flew down to Wellington in the morning and caught up with the MNZ crew of Reef, River (read River's review here), Amanda, Garry, and Bevan for brunch: two reviewers and four photographers meant we were one of the largest media contingents at Homegrown 2023.
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Say Or Do - Single Review: Awake
19 Mar 2023 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
If you’ve been following the Kiwi Rock scene for a while now, you’ll be familiar with the names Silence The City, Quarter 2 and Broken Avenue. One of the main drivers behind these epic bands has been by groove-master Sam French.
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Shadowcaster - Single Review: Eternity
19 Mar 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
Shadowcaster has indulged us with a journey into sonic space in their new single titled Eternity. Its Celtic rock sound and fast-paced rhythm employ numerous instruments that build upon one another to great effect.
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Gig Review: Cross Street Festival @ Auckland - 11/03/2023
19 Mar 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Street festivals have historic origins and the Cross Street Festival really was about the music. It somehow manages to catch the haphazard chaos of a vibrant Saturday night Karangahape Road and yet complement the imposing city buildings which dominate this backroad.
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19 Mar 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Street festivals have historic origins and the Cross Street Festival really was about the music. It somehow manages to catch the haphazard chaos of a vibrant Saturday night Karangahape Road and yet complement the imposing city buildings which dominate this backroad.
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Vox Capacitor - Single Review: Rectangle
18 Mar 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Vox Capacitor is a solo project of "Jangly Dad Rock and Indie Guitar Pop" based in Auckland, from an artist who is clearly a quite competent multi-instrumentalist. From drums tracked "in a borrowed gym", to a suitably solid bass line, to layers of guitars topped with well-delivered vocals, Vox Capacitor certainly multi tasks with aplomb.
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On Tick - EP Review: Planet Chrome
17 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
When On Tick released their debut album, Nothing New, towards the end of 2021 they were already in a state of change as it was recorded as a trio of brothers Brendan (vocals and drums) and Aidan O'Loughlin (vocals, guitar) along with bassist Matt Hammond, who also produced it, but they had now brought in Matt Perry to play bass while Matt H had moved to lead guitar. In 2023 things have changed again as Matt H is now concentrating on Pale Flag, while Matt P is also not involved any longer, so it is back to just Brendan and Aidan.
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Written By Wolves - Single Review: Give 'Em Hell
16 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Written by Wolves may not have released any new material in 2022, but everyone knew the boys were working on their next album, and if you were fortunate enough to see them play then you will have already heard Give 'Em Hell as they were using this track as the opening number. In many ways this encapsulates everything which is Written By Wolves in one song – if you want to know why so many of us keep raving about them, then this will demonstrate why.
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Anthony Coulter - Single Review: Younger
16 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Anthony Coulter’s album Pilgrimage To the Sea, where he says he is not getting any younger, something I can really relate to given I am 60 in just a few months and certainly act a lot more than I used to. Mind you, I don’t think every day is the same, which is the same for Anthony who yearns to be younger.
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BAKeR - EP Review: Eternal Now
16 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Mike Baker has been involved in both the Australian and NZ music scenes since the Eighties, running the import/export operations for Australia’s Hot Records at one point, releasing an album himself as a member of Not Really Anything and also managing Glide. Last year he created his alter ego BAkeR and started recording this five-track EP, entitled Eternal Now, with Daniel Hewson (the son of the late Paul Hewson of Dragon).
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The Traditional Aliens - Album Review: What World Will You Live In
16 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I think from the cover that The Traditional Aliens inhabit a world which contains knitted female dwarves, although I could well be wrong. What World Will You Live In is both the debut and third album by the guys, who recently changed their name from Infinity following on from their 2017 self-titled debut and then 2020’s Icy Blue Planet.
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Midwave Breaks - Single Review: Souvenirs
16 Mar 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
It wasn’t long ago I had just finished reviewing Midwave Breaks latest EP- Mind Made Up, and now, we’re back again with their new single- Souvenirs. First off, let me tell you, these guys are already doing awesome things for New Zealand music, and this new single just further cements their superb range as musicians.
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Captain Festus McBoyle's Travellin' Variety Show - Album Review: Look Wot The Cat Dragged In
15 Mar 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Masters of music and magic helmed by Captain Festus McBoyle are back, with their 4th album Look Wot The Cat Dragged In. Another amusing and entertaining offering from one of New Zealand's top family entertainers, as always delivered in the captain's flamboyant style.
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IVY - EP Review: For The Sake Of It
14 Mar 2023 // A review by Trevor Faville
Ivy are a band hailing from Dunedin, and For The Sake Of It is a five song collection which expands on their debut release single Stranger, which came out at the end of 2022. As might be expected from a band who adds the words “alternative” and “prog” to their description, Ivy are ambitious musically, and have a very broad reach when it comes to lyrical inspiration.
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Eve Kelly - Single Review: Mr Big Shot
10 Mar 2023 // A review by madeleinehoward
Whakatane based singer-songwriter (Eve Kelly) released her single Mr Big Shot on February 24th.Following on from her previous singles Gotta Let Go and Dance With Me, both released in the final months of 2022, Mr Big Shot adds another layer to this up and coming artist's repertoire, proving that Eve has a talent for writing songs that are a blend of genres, including funk, RnB, gospel, and adult contemporary.
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Mi-Sex - Gig Review: Mi-Sex and Stellar* @ Paraoa Brewing, Whangaparaoa - 09/03/2023
09 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I had been looking forward to tonight for quite some time as here was an amazing opportunity to catch two of our most iconic bands. Mi-Sex are touring in celebration of the 40th anniversary of their debut album, Graffiti Crimes, which of course featured probably their biggest hit, Computer Games.
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Matt Joe Gow - Album Review: Between Tonight and Tomorrow
09 Mar 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
There’s a simple drumbeat and then this quintessential Americana voice bursts forth and it’s a shipwreck, which is no place to start, but this ship’s been sunk for years and years and Matt Joe Gow opens his fourth album with a Shipwreck and it’s a great place to start, with a rich, full sound and Katya Harrop on backing vocals, and we’re away… Matt Joe Gow is a man who knows who he is, is comfortable in his skin and oozes authenticity into his entire persona and so it’s no surprise that this persona translates into song. He’s from Dunedin but has plied his trade in Victoria for umpteen years and happily for us is increasing his focus on his home country fans, with a short tour just completed and more to come…..
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Sabreen Islam - EP Review: Room Service
09 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Although Sabreen Islam is young, and is currently studying at the University of Auckland, she has been involved in the arts for some time, both in music and poetry and performed at The Others Way Festival as far back as 2018. To date she has released a few singles, the most recent of which can be found here on her debut EP.
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Abby Christo - Single/Video Review: Note To Self
09 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Abby Christo first came to prominence when, in 2015, she appeared on X- Factor NZ as part of duo Mae Valley who has significant success with their debut EP and played alongside country stars such as Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood and Kelsea Ballerini.Abby released her debut solo EP a few years ago and is now working on the second.
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Hummucide - Single Review: The Sound the Sea Makes
09 Mar 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Hummucide are an instrumental jazz-rock quartet hailing from Wellington. Formed in Jazz school they did the house party circuit, playing their refined Jazz to indie audiences, a bold choice that paid off well and set them apart.
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South for Winter - Single Review: Something In The Stars
08 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
I don’t think I will ever get used to just how much amazing music there is out there for people willing to look and forego popular radio stations. Last year I was asked if I would like to review a duo, South For Winter, I had not previously come across, who were over here from America where they are generally based.
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Eve Kelly - Eve Kelly @ Jam Factory, Tauranga - 03/03/2023
08 Mar 2023 // A review by Shade
The ‘Sold Out’ sign is a good sign and it went up several days before Eve Kelly’s first show at The Jam Factory in Tauranga’s Historic Village. Whakatane-based Eve Kelly is a star on-the-rise and she put on a show that left her audience, old and new, elated and begging for more.
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Melanie - Gig Review: Melanie @ Snails, Palmerston North - 04/03/2023
07 Mar 2023 // A review by River Tucker
What else was there to do last Saturday night except get out and support some live bands at a local music venue, in this case an all ages gig with Feildings Best Dancers, Crying Club and Melanie at the legendary Snails in Palmerston North.Snails also doubles as an artist space and there’s a considerable amount of well-lit artwork on display for people to appreciate.
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Coridian - Album Review: Hava
07 Mar 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Journalism’s meant to be objective, right? No playing favourites.
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Lorde - Gig Review: Lorde @ The Outer Fields, Western Springs - 04/03/2023
07 Mar 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Blue skies filled the days prior to the Lorde gig; the Solar Power tour had the sun visible and candescent. On March 4th in Western Springs, Tamaki Makaurau had not seen Lorde here for years, and some fans had even had their ticket waiting since 2021, when this third studio album was released.
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Gig Review: Music in Parks - Hillsborough @ Monte Cecilia Park, Auckland - 05/03/2023
05 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
On a beautiful sunny afternoon it was back out for another afternoon care of Auckland Council and their free Music In The Parks series. This is one of the ways the council support the arts, and there are a series of free gigs which started in January and go through to the end of March covering many different styles.
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05 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
On a beautiful sunny afternoon it was back out for another afternoon care of Auckland Council and their free Music In The Parks series. This is one of the ways the council support the arts, and there are a series of free gigs which started in January and go through to the end of March covering many different styles.
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Living State - Gig Review: Living State @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 3/03/2023
04 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Central Auckland on a Friday night for Living State’s single launch so this promised to be fun, especially as they had Altaea playing (who I had not seen since they had a change in singer and direction, so changed the name from States) plus Lost Vessels who were fresh from recording with Dave Rhodes as part of their prize for winning last year’s Ding Dong Battle of the Bands. I bumped into Red from Finger Tight who is just buzzing about supporting Coridian on their forthcoming North Island tour, which promises to be a great gig.
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Bandi - EP Review: Bittersweet
02 Mar 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Kiwi-Brazilian artist Bandi spent her years growing up between Auckland, Los Angeles and Sao Paulo, a unique background that makes for a thrilling array of sound and style on her debut EP Bittersweet. Mixing bubblegum pop with soulful R&B, it's a collection perfectly designed to saturate the airwaves.
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Living State - Single/Video Review: Black White Man
02 Mar 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
A few years ago I was at Dead Witch when someone came up to and introduced themselves as Lex, and that he was bassist in a band called Living State and would I like to hear their single? I agreed, but to be honest never expected to hear from him again as that is the usual course of affairs, but the next day I was sent a load of material including the video for One Sided.
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The Veils - Album Review: ...And Out Of The Void Came Love
02 Mar 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
The Veils have a new album out today, their first for seven years, and it’s called ….And Out of the Void Came Love.
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The Transits - Single Review: When You Went Away
28 Feb 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
In the digital age of today, it’s not uncommon for musicians and artists to collaborate and create music from kilometers, or countries away, and even beyond continents. Such is the case for The Transits, a pop rock indie trio consisting of members from Durban, South Africa and Tamaki Makaurau Auckland.
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Frontier - Single Review: Star Walkin'
28 Feb 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Frontier are a passionate and energetic Pop Punk and Easycore four piece band from Christchurch, New Zealand. Their new release, Star Walkin', is driven by a huge intro that quickly moves into what we would expect from Pop/Punk, this song rocks.
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Blindfolded and Led to the Woods - Single/Video Review: Methlehem
28 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
2023 promises to be an incredible year for New Zealand metal and rock, and one album everyone is looking forward to is the forthcoming Rejecting Obliteration from Christchurch’s very own BALTTW. The first time I saw these guys play was supporting Death Angel and Sepultura and certainly holding their own, and the last time was up here in Auckland at Dead Witch, where they took the place to the cleaners with their brutal brand of death metal.
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The Wax Birds - Album Review: Yellowhammer
28 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Although I work in Auckland on North Island (New Zealand’s largest city), I call home a small farm close to a township called Oxford on South Island, and I get back there as often as I can, especially as that is where my wonderful wife is. According to the last census the population is 2,214, so not exactly a metropolis, but we love it.
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Bad Schematics - EP Review: Keep Your Gods
28 Feb 2023 // A review by River Tucker
Bad Schematics have hit the road running with a small tour and a couple of promo videos made in support of their debut EP, Keep Your Gods. It’s a rip-roaring release somewhat influenced by early 2000 American Emo rock, embellished with touches of Nu-Metal and high-energy Alt Rock, which delivers a sound they can proudly call all their own.
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Planet Hunter - Single Review: Impostor
27 Feb 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
The Wellington quartet of Planet Hunter is offering a bouncy and addictive look into the new worlds they have discovered in the bridging of old and new rock. Their new single Impostor is exceedingly guitar-driven and backed up with a powerful set of vocals.
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King Cass - Single/Video Review: Yea Yea
27 Feb 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
The newest track from King Cass, Yea Yea, immediately grabbed me, and kept me. Starting out with a simple instrumental hook, leading into the smooth vocal line of the chorus, and on into King Cass delivering his message.
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Iveta & Simone - Single Review: Corazon
24 Feb 2023 // A review by taffynz
Here's the thing. Pop isn't my bag.
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Chump Change - Single Review: Ocean Eyed Machine
24 Feb 2023 // A review by taffynz
Oh, I'm getting a real knack for picking the ones that get my toes tappin'! With this single, Ocean Eyed Machine, Dunedin-based indie outfit Chump Change have delivered an ethereal delight that lives up to its billing of "summer hit" on the EPK I got sent.
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Richter City Rebels - Album Review: Big Fresh
23 Feb 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Bustling like a street carnival parade comes the Richter City Rebel’s third studio album Big Fresh. With an impressive list of featured local artists and wall-to-wall brass and percussion, this exuberant collection of colourful tracks would certainly have any crowd pumping at a live show.
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10:32 - Single/Video Review: Coffee Shop Girl
23 Feb 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
London based, future-soul collective 10:32 have recently released their latest single accompanied by a cosmic music video Coffee Shop Girl. Predominantly UK based, lead vocalist Bridget Walsh adds a Kiwi flavour.
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B O K E H - Single/Video Review: Simple Little Things
23 Feb 2023 // A review by taffynz
I seem to be picking up pop pieces recently. Lucky for me, I'm picking up quality commercial-standard work like this one, B O K E H's new single Simple Little Things.
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Madeline. - Single Review: The Illawarra
23 Feb 2023 // A review by Sharne Molloy-Turpin
A song is powerful when you can hear its fashionable beat and appealing lyrics in view of the fact it comes from a special experience. One of Aotearoa’s newest artists Madeline.
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Matt Joe Gow - Single Review: Between Tonight & Tomorrow
23 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have Matt Joe Gow’s latest single Between Tonight & Tomorrow, taken from the album of the same name which is out on March 10th. Matt provides vocals and guitar, and he is again accompanied by his band The Dead Leaves, featuring Andrew Pollock (guitar), Robin Murphy (bass), Daniel Brates (drums), Katya Harrop (percussion) and Dave Evans (Hammond organ).
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Fathom - Single Review: Wink of the Lighthouse
23 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
In my wonderfully formed Kev’s Top Tens for 2022 we can see nestling at #5 in the albums slot The World To Breathe by Nancy Howie, otherwise known as Fathom. Nancy is a piano tuner by trade and when she had time on her hands due to Covid she decided to make some instruments for herself which were then used to record the debut, and now she is back with a taster for the next one.
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Silk Cut - Album Review: Our Place In The Stars
22 Feb 2023 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Like Prometheus nicking fire, so too has Silk Cut’s Andrew Thorne stolen from the gods. In a figurative sense of course.
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These Four Walls - Gig Review: These Four Walls @ AUX, Auckland - 18/02/2023
21 Feb 2023 // A review by LouClementine
Just off the bustling inner city Queen Street, round a corner and up a few sets of stairs Ding Dong houses an excellent live venue space: AUX. Tonight, it is packed out for the homecoming of much-loved These Four Walls.
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Scalper - Album Review: The Shine
21 Feb 2023 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Scalper is Nadeem Shafi, born and raised in East London of Pakistani descent. The Shine is his 5th studio album, following 2020's critically acclaimed The Beast and the Beauty, which dealt heavily with the recent loss of his mother.
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David Edwards - Album Review: Águas Brilhantes: 2018-2022
20 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
What we have here is the fourth in a series of compilations from Dave Edwards, AKA Fiffdimension, covering the years 2018-2022 (the others are for earlier years) and includes previously unreleased recordings, download-only bonus tracks, and excerpts from 12 albums. Yes, twelve.
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TheSlacks - Single/Video Review: Information Ape
20 Feb 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
TheSlacks latest single Information Ape starts off with a sweet melody that reminds me of a 50's doowop band like The Penguins. Over the top of this some digital noises such as phones ringing and switches changing lines establishes the vibe or both sincere, innocent beginnings and hectic modern life.
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Tealskie - Single Review: Flown Away
18 Feb 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
Otautahi alt rock band Tealskie debut with their fresh track Flown Away, a sweeping ballad which highlights a clear cohesion and tight musical interplay within the group.Sharp, rushing guitar grooves open the track, met with clashing percussion and subtle yet effective bass.
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Late to Chelsea - EP Review: LTC
17 Feb 2023 // A review by Chris Chick
When it comes to the soundtrack of anyone’s life, I am pretty sure the counter cultural sounds and motives of the punk movement would have influenced you at some time. Every generation needs its punk bands even if it's just the opportunity to not take yourself too seriously and enjoy the madness that is life and music.
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WoLF - Single Review: Underachiever
17 Feb 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
WoLF is a solo project (Aaron Hogg) with over 25 years' experience as a vocalist, guitarist and bassist. Having a lot of tour and show experience, WoLF is an accomplished artist with international acts and festivals under his belt.
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Revulva - Single Review: This Town
17 Feb 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
A flute and muted trumpet herald in what sounds to be the start of a jewel-heist movie, then a cool but suspicious voice speaks out from behind the brim of a tilted hat, leaning in the doorway; “There’s tumbleweeds on the ground, recently I’ve found, this town, is like the wild west”. Sassy, sophisticated, and street-smart are words that spring to mind upon giving Revulva’s latest single This Town a spin.
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Julia Dorry - Single Review: You Make Me
16 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
You Make Me is the debut single from Julia Dorry, who was born and raised in Berlin but now calls Aotearoa her home. This four-minute-long number is all about the vocals, which are front and centre at all times, placed against a piano for the most part but with a nice full band bringing in additional elements.
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System Exit - EP Review: Avalon
16 Feb 2023 // A review by Liam Davis
New Zealand's answer to the alt-rock explosion that rocked the 90's has taken its modern form as Taranaki's System Exit, with their new release Avalon - giving a trifecta of a funky, spacey, and catchy EP. System Exit has certainly discovered their signature; every track flows like water with a crisp mix and memorable riffs.
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ASHY - Single Review: LA Talk
16 Feb 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
LA Talk is the latest hit from Kiwi creative ASHY, a starlet who's seen the stages of Electric Avenue, Going Global and even Texas's South by Southwest. It's a single that proves she knows pop music inside and out.
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0800 Belly Up - EP Review: 0800 Belly Up
14 Feb 2023 // A review by LouClementine
In this self-titled EP, 0800 Belly Up embrace the promise of their teaser single sounds while proving they are at their heart, punk rock. Their debut six-track release is emblazoned with foot-stomping and holler-inducing energy.
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The Beatniks - Single Review: Wake Up Jane
13 Feb 2023 // A review by IShadowcasterI
2021 was an interesting time. The world was still really trying to work out how the spicy flu would impact our day to day, and it was harder than ever as a live musician.
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Swerve City - Gig Review: Swerve City @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 11/02/2023
12 Feb 2023 // A review by Steve Shyu
As my first live gig review of 2023, it had to be a good line-up. Then I heard that Swerve City had announced a headlining show at Dead Witch, so I knew that had to be it.
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Beachware - Album Review: It's Only Time
12 Feb 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
“Maybe it’s time we gave up” is the very first lyric of Beachware’s very first album, It’s Only Time. It’s a bewildering introduction to a band, who given the circumstances of a technical debut, you’d expect to be all for taking the musical world by storm.
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Beachware - Gig Review: Beachware @ Space Academy, Christchurch - 11/02/2023
12 Feb 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
Last night's Beachware show was my first visit to Space Academy, a smallish venue with a great atmosphere and mouth-watering food. An excellent setting for the two bands I had the pleasure of watching.
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Tsenate - Single Review: Superstar
10 Feb 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
New Zealand based artist/producer TSENATE has recently released her third single Superstar, which follows on from her debut single 4 The Ride in 2021 and No1 Else Feels Like Home in 2022. Her latest track has a sound reminiscent of early 2000 RnB which oozes slow jam vibes.
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Michael Signal - EP Review: Solway
10 Feb 2023 // A review by Peter K Malthus
I'm really surprised that I hadn't heard of Michael Signal before reviewing this EP. This is far from being Michael's first release, and listening to it (repeatedly and joyfully, I might add) had me delving into his back catalogue, including a rip-snorting cover of Scorpions' Rock You Like A Hurricane.
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Tablefox - Single Review: Mother
09 Feb 2023 // A review by Karl Brinsdon
Tablefox’s latest track, Mother is an example of everything that modern rock music should be; a great performance that makes use of modern production technologies without becoming overproduced. Finding a good place to start talking about Mother is truly a challenge as with every listen it seems that I notice something new about the track.
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Slow Rage - Single Review: Bones
06 Feb 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Slow Rage is an Auckland duo who have that special something. They are a melting pot blend of alternative rock and punk, and sound like everything you want but nothing you’ve heard.
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Fraser Ross - Gig Review: Fraser Ross w/ Hannah Everingham @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 4/02/2023
06 Feb 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s a balmy Auckland evening with no rain, yes, no rain, yes, no rain, yes, I really mean no rain and we’re at the Wine Cellar to see Christchurch/Lyttelton based musicians Fraser Ross, who is headlining, and Hannah Everingham, who is opening, except she’s not, because Babe Martin pops up ahead of her. Very cool singer songwriter who has another life as Zoe Larson Cumming who you will hear on 95bfm.
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Coast Arcade - Single Review: Highest Heights
05 Feb 2023 // A review by Hannah Jane
Just a couple of years after forming in high school, Coast Arcade are killing it! The indie pop-rock band is made up of brothers Chris and Nate Tims, Thom Boynton, and Bella Bavin who have found themselves performing at popular festivals and supporting Kiwi icons The Beths and Princess Chelsea.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Lounge 10th Birthday Part 1 @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 29/01/2023
03 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
The original Ding Dong Lounge was founded in New York City in 2001 by Bill Nolan, opening on the upper west side of Manhattan and slowly gaining a following of talented artists, writers, actors, and musicians. In 2003, Bill Walsh opened Ding Dong Lounge in Melbourne, branding itself with a live gig atmosphere that easily upheld Ding Dong’s rock reputation.
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03 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
The original Ding Dong Lounge was founded in New York City in 2001 by Bill Nolan, opening on the upper west side of Manhattan and slowly gaining a following of talented artists, writers, actors, and musicians. In 2003, Bill Walsh opened Ding Dong Lounge in Melbourne, branding itself with a live gig atmosphere that easily upheld Ding Dong’s rock reputation.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Lounge 10th Birthday Part 2 @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 29/01/2023
03 Feb 2023 // A review by Gideon Voon
With the new AUX stage promising better things to come, the Dead Witch Stage reminds of us of the events that were that led us to this point. First up on the Dead Witch Stage, we had Swizl Jager (pictured), if you thought Ding Dong Lounge was exclusively reserved for Rock and Metal, then you will be proven wrong, as Swizl brings the world of Rap and Hip-Hop to us.
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03 Feb 2023 // A review by Gideon Voon
With the new AUX stage promising better things to come, the Dead Witch Stage reminds of us of the events that were that led us to this point. First up on the Dead Witch Stage, we had Swizl Jager (pictured), if you thought Ding Dong Lounge was exclusively reserved for Rock and Metal, then you will be proven wrong, as Swizl brings the world of Rap and Hip-Hop to us.
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Midwave Breaks - EP Review: Mind Made Up
02 Feb 2023 // A review by Kerry MB
Since 2021, Midwave Breaks have been the talk of Kiwi music, going from strength to strength releasing two EP’s and a string of radio singles. Now, to kick things off right in 2023, the duo have released their new 3 track EP- Mind Made Up.
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Beckoned - Single/Video Review: Luminous
01 Feb 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
The word “supergroup” is not one to be bandied around lightly, yet that was very much the first thing which came to mind when I came across the new formation of Beckoned. During one of the many lockdowns, guitarist Nail Vincent (Devilskin) started working on new material, and he played some to his old bandmate, bassist Munro Goodwin (Sinate) and pretty soon they were working on the material together with drummer Corey Friedlander (City of Souls,8 Foot Sativa), but who would be the singer?
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Macho Macho - Single Review: Blink
01 Feb 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Wow, I have to say the new single Blink from Macho Macho is extremely impressive! I was hooked right from the very first listen.
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Flying Man - Single Review: Under The Stars
31 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Flying Man is the stage name of Dunedin based Irish-born live-looping guitarist and singer/songwriter Alan Ned Gray. Flying Man’s song-writings sit in the electroacoustic realm - playing programmed beats, live looping and layered harmonies.
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Crying Club - EP Review: Big Water Bottle
31 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
It is some 18 months since I last reviewed a recording by Crying Club, which was the single Taxi Man, but I did see them at EmoFest last year where three of the songs on this five-track thirteen-minute-long EP were played. While their music is solidly rooted in the indie scene, they manage to also bring in other genres as they cross genres, bringing rock and metal quite strongly into their poppy mix.
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KRISTN - Single Review: Chasin'
30 Jan 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
It’s easy to sell Auckland R&B artist KRISTIN off her voice alone. Smooth as honey, expressive and attention-commanding, it’s a talent which has recently landed her in the cast of Australia’s Hairspray The Musical, and on the NZ Hot Singles chart with previous release Seasons.
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Sabreen Islam - Single Review: Still Love You
26 Jan 2023 // A review by taffynz
Here's the thing. I am a rock music fan, principally the 70's and 80's stuff.
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Soft Plastics - Single Review: Disembody
26 Jan 2023 // A review by taffynz
A definite atmosphere builder. That's what I got from listening to Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington to anyone reading from beyond these shores) indie three piece Soft Plastics new single Disembody.
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Imperial Slave - Gig Review: Imperial Slave @ Castle 789, Palmerston North - 21/01/2023
23 Jan 2023 // A review by River Tucker
It was pretty balmy in Palmy last Saturday night at Castle 789, but the Summer heat didn’t deter people from wearing black, with nearly every major metal band represented on patches and T-shirts by a small but dedicated crowd of enthusiastic metalheads.Tribute band Meiniak kicked things off with an extended set of all the Pantera greats, nailing such crowd-pleasers as A New Level, 5 Minutes Alone, Drag The Waters and Walk.
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Marlon Williams - Gig Review: Marlon Williams @ The Civic, Auckland - 20/01/2023
22 Jan 2023 // A review by roger.bowie
Marlon Williams has returned to New Zealand after an extensive tour of North America and Northern Europe, to showcase his 2022 release My Boy. He does not disappoint.
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Midnight Green - Gig Review: Midnight Green & Kazia @ The Thirsty Dog, Auckland - 21/01/2022
21 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
After being blasted the previous night at Dead Witch, tonight I was at The Thirsty for what promised to be a very different affair indeed, with two soul/jazz/pop bands. Beforehand I was talking to the bar manager who told me that soon they will be closing for renovations, after which they will open up with the stage in a different place, and it promises to be much improved, so I am really looking forward to seeing the end results.
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The Rising Tide - Gig Review: The Rising Tide @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 20/01/2023
20 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back to Dead Witch tonight for my first time seeing The Rising Tide who were up from Palmerston North in support of their excellent new EP, The Hope We Die For. They had also invited a few other bands who I have seen before, namely Brawler NZHC who I saw supporting Xile, plus favourites Unwanted Subject and Pale Flag who were both at the Downfall of Humanity release show.
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Gig Review: Music In Parks - Helensville @ Helensville River Reserve, Auckland - 15/01/2023
15 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Each Summer, the Auckland Council put on a series of free outdoor concerts in different places around the city, and today was the second this year, and definitely had a country flavour with Keith Pereira, Louis Jarlov and Sam Bartells. Not only are the shows free, but they all take place in the afternoon, so this gig was set to take place between 1 and 4!
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15 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Each Summer, the Auckland Council put on a series of free outdoor concerts in different places around the city, and today was the second this year, and definitely had a country flavour with Keith Pereira, Louis Jarlov and Sam Bartells. Not only are the shows free, but they all take place in the afternoon, so this gig was set to take place between 1 and 4!
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Ovus - Gig Review: Ovus @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 14/01/2023
15 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Having spent an incredible two weeks at home on South Island, it was now back up to Auckland and it was soon back into the live scene with my first gig at Dead Witch for 2023. Tonight was going to be interesting as I recently reviewed Ovus’s EP, Lucid, and it would be the first time I had seen Afterlight since they changed their name from Antebellum.
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Adam McGrath - Album Review: Dear Companions
08 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Due to many reasons, I have been somewhat late to the underground NZ scene but over the last few years have been fortunate enough to meet some incredible people, see some amazing performances, and hear some wonderful music. All of these come together in one man, Adam McGrath, leader of The Eastern.
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Holy Crime - Single Review: Play Toy
08 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Holy Crime are a relatively new band from Auckland, comprising Benny Richards (guitar, vocals), Tom Anderson (bass, vocals), Jacob Stutton (guitar) and Mat Hinton (drums), with Play Toy being their debut single. Sometimes, just sometimes, one hears a song and immediately a smile comes across the face and it stays there right until the end and that is the case with this one with its unabashed influences of The Darkness and Eighties glam rock.
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Swizl Jager - Single/Video Review: Nanny Pia
06 Jan 2023 // A review by Ben Ruegg
The new track from Swizl Jager, Nanny Pia, is a fantastic new track that will have your head bobbing in a humble way. It's got a great vibe that will have you hitting that repeat button.
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Ripship - Album Review: Fearsome Engine
06 Jan 2023 // A review by Nicholas Clark
This couldn’t be a Ripship review without at least mentioning the immense noise the two-piece band produces. There – I’ve said it; they sure can conjure up some dBs.
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The Rising Tide - EP Review: The Hope We Die For
05 Jan 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Palmerston North deathcore band The Rising Tide had a great 2022, touring for the first time in six years and here we are now with their latest EP which is being released in time for a quick nationwide tour which sees them playing Auckland, New Plymouth, Wellington, and Christchurch. They may call themselves deathcore, but to be honest they probably have more in common with “straight” death based on these three songs, although there is a lot going on.
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Tipare - Single Review: Party Calls
02 Jan 2023 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Tipare dropped the single Party Calls to enliven the new beginnings of our post-pandemic world. She’s a singer songwriter who’s lived all around Aotearoa, having lived in New York as early as seventeen.
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Anthony Coulter - Album Review: Pilgrimage To the Sea
01 Jan 2023 // A review by Danica Bryant
The album art for Anthony Coulter’s latest album Pilgrimage To the Sea shows the performer saturated in stunning blues and golds, playing guitar beside the ocean. It’s a simple image, one that perfectly represents the joy of the album’s summer themes, and yet seems surprisingly unassuming for the majestic record that follows.
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Chasing Titans - EP Review: Chasing Titans
28 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut EP by Auckland-based metalcore trio Chasing Titans who were formed in 2018 and comprise Adrian Govender (guitar, vocals), Sylvester Porizakova (bass, vocals), and Torrance Kam (drums). The name is inspired by the original Greek Titans and reflects the philosophy of never giving up on one’s biggest dreams and striving for greatness.
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Sex Dad - Album Review: Sex Dad's Greatest Hits: The Very Best Of Sex Dad
27 Dec 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
Feeling bloated and underwhelmed. Listening to mainstream radio in the car as I left my phone at home.
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Enoch - Single/Video Review: Seasons
26 Dec 2022 // A review by River Tucker
Formed in 2017, Enoch is a five-piece metal band hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, who encapsulates everything that’s good about metal music. Well produced by Texas based Machine (Lamb of God, Clutch, Impending Doom), Seasons is Enoch’s fourth single and marks a refreshing step away from their nu metal roots.
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Miinds - Single Review: Loveless
20 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Miinds came together in 2020, which was probably not the best time for a band to be forming, but they all knew each other from different projects and were soon writing music together, albeit remotely. Loveless is the first song they came up with, and is also their first ever release, ahead of an EP which will be coming out in February.
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Taipella Tide - Single Review: You That I Want
20 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Taipella Tide is the solo project from Chris Buhler, who is also in Fin Rah Zel. The song came to Chris when he was on the beach at San Sebastian, Spain, just swimming and strumming his acoustic.
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1 Drop Nation - Album Review: 1 Drop Nation
20 Dec 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
Opening with a very spiritual Maori haka Intro - Waerea, we were introduced to the opening track Homeland, which is an unashamedly patriotic Aotearoa anthem with repeated strains of "We are one nation". This is a track that proudly declares love for home, while also being a rally call for the future.
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Broke - Gig Review: Broke @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 17/12/2022
20 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back to Dead Witch in Auckland on another extremely wet Saturday night for my last gig of the year, my 62nd! Tonight, I was in the unusual position of being faced with three bands I had never seen before, although I had reviewed material by all of them, plus the band I have seen most in 2022.
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Something Zesty - Single/Video Review: She's Right
19 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been more than a year since I last heard from Whanganui boys Something Zesty, when I reviewed the single/video Footprintz. Their new song She's Right has in some ways been kicking around for a while as Isaac got the rhythm and riff from jamming in his room and as soon as Andrew and Ethan heard it they soon fleshed it out.
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Goodcorz - Single Review: Too Many Times
19 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This single marks a return to original music for Corey Cross AKA Goodcorz for the first time in more than twenty years, and here he has been joined by Anton Harris (drums), Phil Doublet (ukulele, steel guitar), and Greg Mannering (bass, backing vocals). It took me a while to think who this reminded me of, but then it came to me, The Peppercorns, a British band who released an album back in the 90’s (Brothers) who had a very similar style.
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Sarah Valintine - Single Review: Words
19 Dec 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Sarah Valintine is a Tamaki Makaurau-Based poet and songwriter. Words is her latest release, and it's a part of a more expansive project called the Pop Poetry Collection.
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Te Kaahu - Album Review: Te Kaahu O Rangi
18 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to review The Others Way Festival in Auckland. It is an interesting event in that it is held in venues either in or close to Karangahape Road, and I was determined to review in every venue at least once so made up a list comprising both artists I knew I just had to see (Shepherds Reign, Dance Exponents etc.
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Shadowcaster - Single Review: Friends
18 Dec 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
I sometimes wonder how performers choose their stage names. Is Trent Graham, Shadowcaster’s ringleader, taller than average?
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Mojo Alice - Album Review: Chompin' At The Bit
17 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There is something about filthy metal infused with blues and a groove which really gets to me, then add in a singer who is channelling her inner Janis and you know it must be a winner. OK, so the artwork may be a little naff and dated, but while the music is also going back in time there is nothing naff about anything inside the sleeve of Mojo Alice's latest offering.
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Julian Terris - EP Review: Tutu
17 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Released last year, Julian Terris’ debut solo EP, Tutu, contains four tracks and he then followed this up with Tama and Taka. There are plans for another four-track EP, after which they will made available as a 16-track album while people can instead go for the EP's if they would rather.
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Ovus - EP Review: Lucid
17 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when one cannot help but wonder why a band is not better known (or more active), and that is the case for Ovus. Noticing a quote about them in the press release from Ambient Light I sought out the full review to discover that it was about a gig they played in Auckland in 2018 supporting one of their inspirations, Intervals.
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Stewart Pedley - EP Review: Charlie Watts' Shaving Kit
17 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There is no doubt that one of the top producers in Aotearoa is the marvellous Dave Rhodes, so when he makes contact to let people know about a project he has just been working on as he is so impressed, then everyone is going to sit up and take notice. Based in Coromandel, Stewart Pedley performs as half of the Brazilian-Kiwi duo {Let’s Go Descarrego!
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Connor Vazey - Single Review: Two Moons Feat. Antony Pickard
17 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I was asked to review the debut single by 13-year-old Connor Vazey I had no idea what to expect but must admit to being a little concerned as it is rare for someone this young to produce something anyone outside of the family will enjoy. Mind you, I did some research and saw he formed a band last year, Cor-Roc, when he was just 12 and they are already gigging while his dad is also a performer and songwriter, plus here he also used an older singer to provide the vocals.
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Just Another June - EP Review: Mo(u)rning
16 Dec 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi quartet Just Another June released their debut EP Mo(u)rning on December 7th, 2023.Just Another June are singer songwriter Luna Cubillana, vocalist and guitarist Sam Keelty, bassist Austin Standeven and drummer Amy Claire.
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Synthesis of Self - EP Review: Crushed By The Sky
15 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last month saw the gig of the year, Third Time Lucky, which was organised and headlined by Written By Wolves. I had seen every band on the bill play prior to that night except for openers Stacked who were brand new to me and to many in the audience.
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No Broadcast - Single/Video Review: The Shore
15 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I first started listening to this, I felt there had been quite a change in the sound of No Broadcast, and I certainly wonder if this is a new direction for the band or a one-off experiment. It is hard to tell, as although there has been a change in the personnel, singer, guitarist, and songwriter Josh Braden is not averse to bringing in different people to work on different songs and here he has been joined by Thomas Isbister (drums, bass), Ryan Fisherman (lap steel) and Tom Harris (keyboards and string sonic texture).
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All I Seek - EP Review: All I Seek
15 Dec 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
All I Seek is about to become your new favourite band and here’s why. The 5-piece from Wellington seamlessly blend modern metal, pop and rock into package and execute it flawlessly.
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MEDaL - Album Review: Sequela
14 Dec 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Christchurch trio MEDaL are a combination of many years of New Zealand musical history. Singer and guitar slinger David Mulcahy was in JPSE and Superette, bass player John Billows has spent time with The Renderers and Dark Matter and drummer Mark Whyte is part of Into The Void.
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Caravel - Single Review: Gold Coin
13 Dec 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Right out of Poneke Wellington are four young and eager musicians, boldly named Caravel, a blues rock outfit born from the rehearsal spaces of Paraparaumu College. With Katie Parker on the mic, brothers Malachi and Joshua Ray on guitar and bass, respectively, and Joel Mitchinson on sticks-and-skins, the teen group have gained traction over the past few months.
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Kylie Harris - Single Review: Mr. Right
13 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been a long time since we heard new material from Kylie Harris, but this month she is releasing three new songs in her home country, just in time to be inducted into the Gold Guitar Awards Hands of Fame next year. Twice a winner of the Gold Guitar Awards, three-time winner of the Tui Country Music Album of the Year she has also a past winner of Song of the Year and the Rising Star Award.
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The Bobby Holidays - Album Review: At The Beach
13 Dec 2022 // A review by darryl baser
The Bobby Holidays' At The Beach opens with the song Jane, syncopation is to the fore with a great horn section blowing against bass, drums and guitar. The song has an up tempo happy summer vibe.
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Shivers - Single Review: Under My Skin
13 Dec 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Wellington based band Shivers released their latest single Under My Skin on the 8th of November. Formed in 2018, Shivers consists of vocalist Timmy Porter, multi-instrumentalist Adrian Win and drummer Rick Cranson.
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Graham McGregor - Album Review: The Real Karanghape Road
12 Dec 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
At last, I get to write about someone who is older than me. And more notorious!
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Flowers of Hades - Single Review: Trigger Warning
12 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Don’t you love it when extreme bands want their listeners to actually think? That is what we have here with the single from Flowers of Hades which has been released in advance of an EP, which is out next year.
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Big Tasty - Single Review: If You Leave Me
12 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
In April last year I wandered along to Anthology Lounge to review the winners of the recent Battle of the Bands competition and came away mightily impressed as it felt like I had stepped back in time with 9-piece soul band Big Tasty, whom had arrangements designed to keep the vocals of Manuela Herrera front and centre while allowing everyone the room to move. Listening to their latest single I am immediately transported back as this is music which belongs in an intimate setting where one can relax.
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Spirit Boy - Single Review: Adolescence
12 Dec 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Having established themselves in the Christchurch music scene, Spirit Boy is an indie rock ensemble that is hitting the ground running. This is their debut single, Adolescence.
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Adult Friends - Single Review: Brittle
12 Dec 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
In the contemporary music industry, there continues to be a use for genres to categorize products for easier consumption and describe artists for potential customers. True artists, pioneers if you will, often reside at the periphery of the conventions expected of them.
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Tarn PK - EP Review: SugarCoated
11 Dec 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Producer, musician and songwriter Tarn PK, hailing from Poneke Wellington, has been exploring and creating electronic pop over the past three years. Having already crafted two EPs and an impressive number of singles, Tarn PK has just unleashed upon the universe yet another creation in the form of SugarCoated EP, due for release on 16 December.
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Soaked Oats - Album Review: Working Title
11 Dec 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Soaked Oats is a Dunedin indie 4-piece. Working Title is their first full length offering, crafted over the last 18 months in a community hall in the remote township of Okuru, Haast, on the West Coast of the South Island.
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Downfall of Humanity - Gig Review: Downfall of Humanity @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 8/12/2022
11 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Into town on a school night, not normally my idea of fun, but it has been a while since I last caught up with these bands and given how much I have enjoyed playing War Cry, the single released today by Downfall of Humanity, it only seemed right that I head in to support them. First up, at the ungodly hour of 8:00, was Unwanted Subject, who feature Gerrit (vocals), Ryan James (guitar), Blair (drums), Prasert (guitar), and Bran (bass).
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Channeled - Gig Review: Channeled @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 10/12/2022
10 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This was something of an unusual set tonight in that both Scott and Branden Boondocks plus Dani were all students of Ben Ruegg of Channeled, while Branden is of course also in that band while the other two members, Matt and Michelle, are also music teachers. Both Boondocks and Channeled were recently in the finals of the Ding Dong Battle of the Bands, and I think this is the fourth time I have seen the former in recent months, but Dani is new to me.
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Jason Parker - EP Review: How To Be Lonely
10 Dec 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Jason Parker has recently released his 5-track EP, How To Be Lonely and in doing so, he has brought his life affirming pop to our speakers. Parker has a history in TV talent shows and they are one of my favourite things.
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Underscore - Double Single Review: Tell Me / Out of Time
10 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Before I start talking about the music, I must make comment on the logo they used on the last single, which was the word Underscore with three lines beneath it because they are a trio. What a simple and really effective idea.
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Swallow the Rat - Gig Review: Swallow the Rat w/ Ripship @ Valhalla, Wellington - 8/12/2022
10 Dec 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Swallow the Rat and Ripship’s seven date North Island tour had landed in Wellington. Despite the anticipation for the event, including how people attending were talking about the event and online discussions, I entered a rather empty Valhalla bar on Vivian Street a little late for the advertised starting time.
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Rachel Leo - Single Review: Last Call
09 Dec 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Building on her initial successes; bursting onto the 2021 pop music scene with her well-received single Conversation, followed by her stonking 2022 collaboration Dice with Lee Mvtthews, Rachel Leo keeps the ball rolling in the right direction with her latest single release Last Call.Opening with a romantic vintage-feel EQ sweep, Last Call is a bop with attitude.
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Keeley Shade - Single Review: Restless
09 Dec 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Canadian born New Zealand raised singer-songwriter Keeley Shade has just dropped her latest single Restless. Keeley may have a small following at present, but she has a mighty sound representing a “niche brand of DIY female artist/producer in an Indie-Pop/Rock genre”.
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Corrella - Single Review: Skankin
09 Dec 2022 // A review by Chris Chick
Oh yes, the summer vibes are in town and Corrella is starting the skank off without delay. Is there any other type of music that reflects New Zealand during the summertime as the ska/reggae vibes that permeated from the West Indies.
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Newzerror - Single Review: You
08 Dec 2022 // A review by River Tucker
Newzerror is a new two-piece band hailing from a small town in Aotearoa New Zealand called Matamata. Anything but small, Rick and Dee’s sound on their debut single You smashes through the ceiling with some straight forward no-nonsense metal sure to get you up and moshing.
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Hans. - EP Review: Candy
08 Dec 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Perhaps it was the introduction from the once great publication of VICE appointing him ‘one of the rising stars of New Zealand Hip Hop’ or perhaps it was Zane Lowe naming him one of New Zealand’s finest rappers, but my expectations were high going in to this review. Previously I had known Hans.
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Alisa Xayalith - EP Review: Superpowers
08 Dec 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Alisa Xayalith is one half of New Zealand’s most successful synth-pop acts of the 2010’s; The Naked and Famous. With Thom Powers, they dominated the early part of the decade with wonderfully produced, catchy and clever pop songs you could dance in a club or a bedroom to.
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Substax - Single Review: Words
07 Dec 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Substax's Words starts off with a fairly typical, hypnotic 180 bpm big club beat. Some of the sounds seem a little retro here, almost straight off an 80’s synth patch for percussion.
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Thinking Foxes - Single Review: Bleached
07 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Thinking Foxes are an Auckland-based alternative rock trio who are new to me, comprising Gabriel Parkins Craig (vocals, guitar), Luca Garcia Ferrari (bass), and Noah Page (drums). Bleached is their debut single and based on this I am somewhat surprised to have not seen them on the circuit, or even come across their name, as this is polished and full of confidence and never sounds as if it is their first release.
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James Kohler - Single Review: Lights Out
07 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
As a rule, I read press releases after I have been listening to the music, but as well as Lisa sending me this to review, I was also sent it today by the PR company and I read that email before I realised it was on my list. However, my interest was already piqued as James Kohler is described as an “independent prog artist”.
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Nick Burson Band - Single Review: Best Dreams
07 Dec 2022 // A review by taffynz
Christchurch's country blues rock artist Nick Burson returns with his band, giving us the third single from his soon to be released Hindsight album, Best Dreams. Nick is a very capable lyricist and vocalist.
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ARLi - Single Review: Uninvite Me
06 Dec 2022 // A review by taffynz
Born Alice Foulds, ARLi is an Auckland-born and bred singer-songwriter who's been developing the sound we get here for the last seven years of writing and performing. Now, do I like this stuff enough to mark it highly?...
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theajsound - Single Review: Oolala Feat. Sophie Gibson
05 Dec 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Theajsound is a rising artist who just released a new track called Oolala. Sophie Gibson’s voice features in the radio edit, and it’s a tasty tune for sure!
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Downfall of Humanity - Single Review: War Cry
05 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Given the age of these guys, it is somewhat difficult to realise that this line-up has been together since 2009 when Bryce Patten (guitars, backing vocals) joined forces with Daniel Carleton (lead vocals), Alex Carleton (guitars, backing vocals), Ben Pegman (bass) and Ben Bakker (drums). In 2021 they released the excellent Deceit EP, and here at the end of 2022 they are back with their latest single, War Cry which has just blown me away.
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Dilz - Single/Video Review: I've Been 2
05 Dec 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Dilz' new track I've Been 2 hits hard. With a huge bass sound that doesn't overwhelm as much as it just makes you aware of its power, paired with the chimes as a hook and a powerful trap beat, I would say that this Dilz track is a statement about where he has come from and where he is now.
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LIIT - Gig Review: LIIT @ Morningside 605, Auckland - 3/12/2022
04 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It is not often I can say I am at a venue for the first time, but this is indeed the first time I have attended the small but perfectly formed venue which is Morningside 605. I had made my way over to this side of Auckland, and had to park miles away due to Billy Joel playing at Eden Park on the same night, to catch the infamous LIIT and have a party.
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KEV'S TOP 10's - 2022
02 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last year, as a bit of fun, I put together my Top 10’s of NZ music for the year. I may well have created an issue for myself though, as more than a few have asked when the 2022 version is coming out, so here it is in time for the last ever MNZ newsletter in its current form.
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02 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last year, as a bit of fun, I put together my Top 10’s of NZ music for the year. I may well have created an issue for myself though, as more than a few have asked when the 2022 version is coming out, so here it is in time for the last ever MNZ newsletter in its current form.
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Lana Paige - Single Review: Lana Paige - Deluded
01 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When the mighty Seas of Conflict released their latest single, Consume, it featured the rock vocals of Lana Paige, who I have previously seen perform as frontwoman for Dogtooth Amethyst, who recently changed their name to Enclosures. I sent Lana the review, and it was only when chatting with her that I realised she had released a single earlier in the year, so of course the only thing to do is listen to it and then write a review.
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Blindspott - EP Review: Volume. II
01 Dec 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second instalment of Blindspott’s next album, Volumes. There are going to be 12 tracks in total, and when they released Volume.
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Silcrow - Single Review: Ethereal
01 Dec 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Ethereal is the 2nd single from Auckland rock four piece Silcrow (shedding the skin from previous name Close to the Bone). From the guitar solos to the modern rock feel, clean production and that chorus (dammmmm its catchy), this song had me instantly hooked.
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Mad Cow - Single Review: Same Boat
01 Dec 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Same Boat is the latest single to be released Taranaki 3-piece Mad Cow. Mad Cow are mainstays of the New Plymouth have been around since the 1990’s in the North Island’s music scene, evolving from school band No Comment.
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EP Review: Various Artists - Modfest 22
30 Nov 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
As a follow-up to 2020’s ModFest, a demonstration and celebration of modular synthesisers, as well as music made by them, ModFest 2 was postponed once, then rescheduled for October 2022. While the event was held at Red Bar in Auckland Central, this experience of ModFest can be reproduced in the comfort of your own home, via your headphones or through your stereo any time you like.
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30 Nov 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
As a follow-up to 2020’s ModFest, a demonstration and celebration of modular synthesisers, as well as music made by them, ModFest 2 was postponed once, then rescheduled for October 2022. While the event was held at Red Bar in Auckland Central, this experience of ModFest can be reproduced in the comfort of your own home, via your headphones or through your stereo any time you like.
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Lisa Crawley - Single Review: Don’t Delete Me
30 Nov 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Los Angeles based; Kiwi award-winning song writer Lisa Crawley has recently released her latest single Don’t Delete Me from her recent EP Looking For Love (In A Major) delivering a silky soft indie pop number backed by restrained elegant piano playing. Already a seasoned musician Lisa is a four-time APRA Silver Scroll Award nominee twice selected for the prestigious Banff Centre songwriter residency in Canada among several other glittering accolades.
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Loveta - EP Review: More Than Fun
29 Nov 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
0Otautahi based pop artist Loveta launched her debut EP More Than Fun on November 18th. The EP is a collaboration with musician Wulfie (Tim Heeringa) and made with support from NZ On Air's Development Fund.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Bands Competition Grand Final @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 26/11/2022
28 Nov 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
Weeks of hard work and preparation culminates in the Grand Final of Auckland's Ding Dong Lounge's Band Competition. As this was a competition, I had a bit of fun trying my best to make a calculated guess as to who would win.
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28 Nov 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
Weeks of hard work and preparation culminates in the Grand Final of Auckland's Ding Dong Lounge's Band Competition. As this was a competition, I had a bit of fun trying my best to make a calculated guess as to who would win.
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Womb - Gig Review: Womb w/ Samara Alofa @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 25/11/2022
28 Nov 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Underground a bustling K-Road the Wine Cellar played host to Womb on Friday night, a three-piece comprised of siblings, Georgette Brown and twins Haz and Charlotte Forrester. Tonight, they celebrated the release of their new album, Dreaming of The Future Again.
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Hannah May - Single Review: Golden
28 Nov 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Hannah May's latest release Golden is a soft and dreamy folk-pop track, encouraging listeners to feel confident and be their own biggest supporter. Bringing to life the sunny sounds inspired by its title, it's a strong effort in her expansive catalogue of singles.
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0800 Belly Up - Single Review: Kick Ons
28 Nov 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
If you feel you would enjoy punk rock better if they showered more often and put a bit more effort in, then this is the band for you. If you love shouting back at bands when they yell lyrics at you, then this is the song for you.
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These Four Walls - Single/Video Review: Marigold
28 Nov 2022 // A review by taffynz
I clicked the five stars score before putting a letter to type. Kiwi-born but Brisbane-based heavy rockers These Four Walls are a professional unit.
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Weird Together - Single Review: Find Out
27 Nov 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Weird Together’s latest release Find Out is an eclectic collaboration with Silver Scroll winners Lips. It’s an acidic, bright funk-house number, experimenting simultaneously with the fun and the familiar.
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Anthea de Milo - Album Review: The Vicar's Daughter
27 Nov 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Out of a cavernous ballroom in Kurow comes the soulful mourning of Anthea de Milo with an old classic, just written, Just in Case. Anthea de Milo?
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Roonie - EP Review: Loveless
25 Nov 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
After releasing a series of exciting singles throughout the year, Christchurch indie-pop artist Roonie drops her first ever EP Loveless. Created in collaboration with producer Will Henderson, it’s a bright, self-assured project, exploring how love impacts Roonie’s self-perception.
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Coridian - Single Review: State of Mind
24 Nov 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Today is an exciting day. Auckland’s alt-rock champions, and arguably one of Aotearoa’s finest rock groups of the modern day, Coridian, release a fresh new jam, State of Mind, for all to indulge in and headbang to.
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Lazy Fifty - Gig Review: Lazy Fifty @ Paraoa Brewing, Whangaparaoa - 24/11/2022
24 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
For my only gig this week, not only am I out on a school night, but I have struggled all the way from South Auckland up to Whangaparaoa, and I must admit it has been years since I have been here. Tonight, Australian trio 19-Twenty are in town, but to be honest I am here for the support band, Lazy Fifty whose last album, 2021: A Lazy Odyssey, I reviewed a year ago.
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Bird Machine - EP Review: Bird Machine
24 Nov 2022 // A review by Chris Chick
Bird Machine are releasing their self-titled EP, the twosome brings a vibe of a New Zealand and Australian alt rock and dream pop to your ears. All these songs are remarkably performed, recorded, and produced from their home-based studio in the wonderful city of Hamilton.
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Reuben Hudson - EP Review: Cloudhead
24 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This five-track EP is the latest release from Melbourne-based, Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland, New Zealand) multi-instrumentalist and songwriter/producer, Reuben Hudson. Featuring David Harris on drums (Princess Chelsea), mixed by Peter Ruddell (Wax Chattels, Sulfate) and mastered by James Goldsmith (Mermaidens), everything else was played and performed by Reuben himself.
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Juliet McLean - EP Review: Amaze Me
24 Nov 2022 // A review by taffynz
A very introspective offering here from Taranaki based singer/songwriter Juliet McLean. The EP Amaze Me, named for its promo single release, is not my usual cup of tea - however, I have said before that music is a subjective creature and a thing of beauty to me might not be so for you...
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Brian Baker - Single Review: I Won't Back Down
23 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Although Tom Petty was a massive success in the States, he never saw anything like the same in the UK until he partnered with Jeff Lynne and together, they came up with the masterpiece which is Full Moon Fever. I was blown away and had it on repeat the year I started dating my now wife, and any song from that album always makes me think of 1989, where I was, with no idea my life would be changing dramatically (and for the better).
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Bad Jelly Collective - Single Review: Paradigms
23 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest release from Bad Jelly Collective, which comprises Ben Clark (vocals, guitar, production) and Dave Weir (bass). It is lengthy for a single, being 5:36, but that is due to the large amount of repetition contained within and the very slow build which takes place.
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The RVMES - Album Review: Simple Things
23 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Before I started writing this I went back to my review for the guys’ last album, Lifetime, and part of me thought about copying it pretty much word for word and see if anyone noticed, as I spoke at length as to how many genres they were covering, and we have the same here, possibly more so. Most bands choose a genre, possibly going into a related area as well, and pretty much stay there.
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Christine White - Album Review: Raven
23 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This multi-media project commenced in March 2020, and more than 2 ½ years later the release had come together with five songs (one of which is a remix of the opening title cut by electronic producer Paddy Free, so there are six tracks). These are accompanied by three music videos, and a book of short haiku-style poetry in two languages (English & Farsi), and there is no doubt that this has gained quite a deal of media interest, so yesterday I found myself listening to a very interesting interview with Christine White on RNZ.
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The New Existentialists - EP Review: Last Days of the Internet
23 Nov 2022 // A review by darryl baser
It might seem like George D Henderson has been a part of the New Zealand music landscape for about as long as Keith Richards has been playing guitar. He’s been in the Flying Nun arena with The Puddle based in Dunedin.
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23 Nov 2022 // A review by darryl baser
It might seem like George D Henderson has been a part of the New Zealand music landscape for about as long as Keith Richards has been playing guitar. He’s been in the Flying Nun arena with The Puddle based in Dunedin.
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Marrow Neck - EP Review: Made Up
23 Nov 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
Sitting here in a very wet and cold, rainy UK watching the oldies falling out of the local Wetherspoons where they have been on the piss since 9am (yep the UK is weird it's only the old people who can afford to get pissed all day).I am reflecting on the past as I listen to the latest EP Made Up from Auckland-based Mark Hannington.
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Goodnight My Darling - Album Review: Goodnight My Darling
22 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
If it hadn’t been for an unfortunate clash with an event I had to attend, I would have been at Whammy a few weeks back to hear Goodnight My Darling, (Maxine Macaulay), and now I have listened to her debut album I so wish I had been able to make it. Still, at least this is now available so those of us who were unable to make it to the tour (last two dates this coming weekend in Wellington and Kapiti) can enjoy this relaxed pleasant romp through different elements of soft pop rock, singer songwriter and shoegaze.
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Taiotims - EP Review: Thank You For Your Patience
22 Nov 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Taiotims (Mataio Timaloa) is an Auckland Hip-Hop artist who has independently built a growing fanbase all over New Zealand. His music is known for his relatable story telling, nostalgic tone of voice and his soulful beats.
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Whero - Single Review: Easy
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when one hears a voice and it feels as if you are being held warm and safe, and that is definitely the case here with Whero, who recently released her debut single. If she has not recorded under this name before, I am sure she must have recorded with others, while this has all the hallmarks of someone who has undertaken a lot of live work.
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Terrible Sons - Single Review: Tomorrow Always Comes
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last week I was fortunate enough to see husband and wife duo Lauren and Matt Barus, otherwise known as Terrible Sons, perform at Wine Cellar, and it was truly a magical evening. Both are wonderful singers, with Matt providing different styles of guitars and Lauren piano, and they created a spell with their music.
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Bevan Mical - Single Review: Cuts Through The Years
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Cuts Through The Years is a jolly, breezy single by multi-instrumentalist, Bevan Mical. The song begins with a two-chord sequence on acoustic guitar, but there's something exotic about the chords are instruments that support the verse.
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GiGi Genie - EP Review: Seasons of The Soul / Wa O Te Wairua
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Seasons of The Soul or Wa O Te Wairua, is a collection of songs by multi-instrumentalist and self-described folk noir artist GiGi Genie. The group is led by songwriter GiGi Crayford and her support band which includes flautists, violinists, zither and percussion players.
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Ben Horlock - Single Review: Don't Wait On Me
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Ben Horlock (Ngati Porou/Te Arawa) is a pop artist from Dunedin who has an ear for a great pop melody, a knack for moody blues guitar lines, and the kind of voice talent scouts are always listening out for. His latest release Don’t Wait on Me features the prominent high hat of modern trap music coming out of Atlanta, an ambient synth lifted from a goth club track, with some deep bass chords to anchor it all together.
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Hans Pucket - Album Review: No Drama
21 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Wellington four-piece Hans Pucket is the kind of band you really should get into now (if you haven’t already) and see live before they become massive. That is, if the world is fair and allows these musicians to succeed at their art form because they really are incredibly good at what they do - and that’s writing beautiful, clever, unusual songs that seem to be for and inspired by uncertain times.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Bands Competition Semi-Final 2 @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 19/11/2022
20 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Dead Witch for the second of the two semi-finals, and tonight was going to be quite different for me as I had already seen three of the bands play (one of them twice), and while I had not seen the last one, I did see one of the guys in his previous band. This was also a night when Auckland had been hit by severe rain, it sounded as if part of the venue’s roof had collapsed, the fire alarms had gone off, and they had leaks!
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20 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Dead Witch for the second of the two semi-finals, and tonight was going to be quite different for me as I had already seen three of the bands play (one of them twice), and while I had not seen the last one, I did see one of the guys in his previous band. This was also a night when Auckland had been hit by severe rain, it sounded as if part of the venue’s roof had collapsed, the fire alarms had gone off, and they had leaks!
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Bands Competition Semi-Final 1 @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 18/11/2022
18 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Dead Witch for the next round of their Battle of the Bands competition. They had some fine bands the last time this was held, with the title eventually being taken by White Noise Mafia.
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18 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Dead Witch for the next round of their Battle of the Bands competition. They had some fine bands the last time this was held, with the title eventually being taken by White Noise Mafia.
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Tia Ward - Single Review: Ko Wai Ahau
18 Nov 2022 // A review by taffynz
Divine. Taranaki, Ngati Maniapoto has given us the bewitching sound of Tia Ward.
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ABRZY - Album Review: 80 Different Ways II
18 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
ABRZY (sometimes referred to as Breezy) is a rapper who has quickly made a name for himself for not only his distinctive, rapid flowing delivery but his unique style that blends influences from Bengali culture. Above all, this release is genuine.
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Eden Iris - Single Review: Young Guest Feat. Lucie Hill
17 Nov 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
I have followed Eden Iris since her (albeit brief) appearance on NZ X Factor in 2013, and I admire the way she has carved out her own path musically since then and created herself a life with music and songwriting well and truly at the heart of it. Proving she never really needed that glorified karaoke contest anyway!
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James Hunter and The Gatherers - Single Review: Revelation
17 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This four-piece alt folk group was originally a solo venture by James Hunter, but he brought in others to work with him, and The Gatherers are now Taylar Mallo (bass), Jacob Gates (lead guitar) and Emerson McCullough (drums.) They say they are influenced by the likes of Jeff Buckley, Sufjan Stevens and Bon Iver, but there is also a major influence which is somewhat out of left field, as whether they have recognised it or not, Justin Hawkins of British rockers The Darkness has had an impact.
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Marianne Leigh - Single Review: Crazy GF
17 Nov 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Auckland performer Marianne Leigh's new track Crazy GF sees her compact the very real human emotions of jealousy and distrust into a compelling, satirical take on female stereotypes. It's catchy, concise, and as the title promises, extremely crazy.
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Odds & Ends - Single Review - 'Better Days'
17 Nov 2022 // A review by IShadowcasterI
Odds & Ends present what might have just become my summer anthem as they give us the song Better Days.Koen Aldershof, Jonathan Meyer, Max Earnshaw, and Luan Meaker make up the Dutch-Kiwi Indie Rock band, and already have 4 singles and an EP reviewed right HERE with us, and yet I would dare to say that this may just be their best effort to date.
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Greta O'Leary - EP Review: Treasure Horse
17 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Following on from the release of her first two singles earlier this year, alt-folk artist Greta O’Leary has now released her debut EP which contains five songs, including both singles. In the past I have likened Greta to Vashti Bunyan, Jazmine Mary and French For Rabbits, and she has attributes of all of them, as what makes this EP work so incredibly well is the depth of her vocals and the way the arrangements refuse to conform to any normal theme.
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Anderson Rocio - EP Review: Chapter One
17 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I guess it will be a long time before I think of Anderson Rocio of anything different to how I first saw her, playing a grand piano wearing a wonderful ballroom dress as she opened for Sol3 Mio. We have kept in touch since then, and last year I reviewed her excellent We’re Fine EP.
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Terrible Sons - Gig Review: Terrible Sons @ The Wine Cellar, Auckland - 16/11/2022
16 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Into central Auckland for my second gig of the week, this time down to Wine Cellar to see folk duo Terrible Sons who describe their music as being “Indie folk music for day-dreamers, cloud watchers and sad song enthusiasts”. The only reason I was here that I had to drive into the city on Friday afternoon for a meeting and heard Lauren and Matt Barus doing a live session on the radio, and when I realised they were coming up from their home in Christchurch to play a gig in Auckland I knew I had to be there.
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Seas of Conflict - Single Review: Consume Feat. Lana Paige
15 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I know I was not the only one within the metal scene to be excited when I heard there was a new release coming from Seas of Conflict. Although there have been significant line-up changes since I last saw them play, the duo of Kody (vocals) and Nic (all instruments) are producing music which is as dynamic, downtuned and brutal as ever.
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Tahini Bikini - Album Review: Fever Dream
15 Nov 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
An album full of very danceable funk tunes, loaded with tight guitar, bass, brass and percussion that provide a perfect foundation for the expressive soulful vocals of Madeline Lucy Taylor. Her unique clarity is reminiscent of Amy Winehouse or our own Kiwi songstress Gin Wigmore.
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Concert Review: Kristallnacht Commemorative Concert @ King’s School, Auckland - 14/11/2022
15 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight was the second of two concerts, the other being in Wellington a few nights ago, to provide a tribute to the "The Women's Orchestra of Auschwitz", telling the stories of four women through the course of the evening. It is a very long time since I attended an evening of classical music, but I was intrigued to discover more about the awful events which took place during the Second World War.
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15 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight was the second of two concerts, the other being in Wellington a few nights ago, to provide a tribute to the "The Women's Orchestra of Auschwitz", telling the stories of four women through the course of the evening. It is a very long time since I attended an evening of classical music, but I was intrigued to discover more about the awful events which took place during the Second World War.
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Dead Favours - Gig Review: Dead Favours @ Valhalla, Wellington - 12/11/2022
14 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
There was a palpable energy in Valhalla on Saturday night; something akin to an orchestra warming up before an opera or athletes preparing for a big game. Before the first act, standing patrons were clamouring for the front line to enjoy three fantastic (and quite different) rock bands.
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Synthesis of Self - Single Review: Atlas
13 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last night I saw this young band open for one of the biggest bills of the year, and were not fazed by it whatsoever, and given what I witnessed then and what I am listening to now, I can see why. They performed this song at the finals of Smokefree Rock Quest two years ago, and now it is the lead single for their debut EP, Crushed by the Sky, which will be out soon.
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Come Together: The Beatles @ Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland - 12/11/2022
13 Nov 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
The Beatles wrote much of their ninth album, their first double, on a Transcendental Meditation course in India with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, in early 1968. They called it simply “The Beatles”, but, in contrast to the previous album cover for Sergeant Pepper, extreme in colour and pageantry, this album was just…….
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13 Nov 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
The Beatles wrote much of their ninth album, their first double, on a Transcendental Meditation course in India with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, in early 1968. They called it simply “The Beatles”, but, in contrast to the previous album cover for Sergeant Pepper, extreme in colour and pageantry, this album was just…….
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Late to Chelsea - Single Review: Permanent Stankface Disorder
13 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from the self-confessed “worse band in Auckland”, Late To Chelsea. There is only one small thing wrong with the comment, they’re not (either late, or the worst).
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Written By Wolves - Gig Review: Written By Wolves @ Tuning Fork, Auckland - 12/11/2022
13 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I, and a whole load of fans, have been waiting for this gig for way too long. The reason it is called “Third Time Lucky” is that the original gig, with a slightly different support line-up, was due to take place last September but thanks to Covid it was canned.
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House of Bonnie Presents @ Valhalla, Wellington - 10/11/2022
12 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
While Wellington’s Valhalla can often seem the perfect venue for dark and brutal music with the Viking themed attire, steep black walls, not to mention imposing decals (including some surviving Halloween decorations), the bar was all colour and light on Thursday evening when Sodalight, REID, Happy Two and Burnt Out Graduate came to brighten the corners. The event had been organised by The House of Bonnie; an organiser who regularly puts on pop shows that are often related to Massey University creative art graduates.
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12 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
While Wellington’s Valhalla can often seem the perfect venue for dark and brutal music with the Viking themed attire, steep black walls, not to mention imposing decals (including some surviving Halloween decorations), the bar was all colour and light on Thursday evening when Sodalight, REID, Happy Two and Burnt Out Graduate came to brighten the corners. The event had been organised by The House of Bonnie; an organiser who regularly puts on pop shows that are often related to Massey University creative art graduates.
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This Silent Divide - Gig Review: This Silent Divide @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 11/11/2022
11 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to Dead Witch for the first of two consecutive nights of gigs for me which were both originally planned for last year but postponed due to the pandemic. Wellington-based quartet This Silent Divide were finally up in Auckland to promote their excellent EP, Tall Stories, which I reviewed last October.
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Goodnight My Darling - Gig Review: Goodnight My Darling w/ Ersha Island @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 10/11/2022
11 Nov 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Goodnight My Darling played at Whammy Bar along with Ersha Island last night. Ersha Island are a sister-duo, playing a classic (but not often seen in their genres) accompaniment of violin and piano.
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Swallow the Rat - Single Review: Other Rooms Feat. Yuko Miyoshi
10 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Swallow The Rat are back with a new single in time for their NZ tour (with Ripship in support, which makes a lot of musical sense to me), where they have also brought in Yuko Miyoshi of Memory Foam who provides additional lead vocals. This is a tough one to listen to, almost as if Can have been invited to a Stooges gig, and they have decided to fuzzily distort everything, bringing in additional instruments to create a carpet of sound for the vocals to rest on.
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Khailana - Single Review: Like A Demon
10 Nov 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Otaki based independent ethereal pop artist Khailana, has just released her third single Like A Demon. Four years in the making the track is a mystical and captivating song, a moody tale ultimately about “how people can construct an entire version of you based off of one little thing that you’ve said or done”.
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Ant Utama - Single Review: Biding My Time
10 Nov 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Pop artist Ant Utama releases his new single Biding My Time today, Friday 11th November. The Kiwi born, now German based artist has enjoyed success with the release of his debut EP Brave in 2020, clocking over 300,000 streams.
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Investigator - Album Review: Shade
10 Nov 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Investigator is a band that makes you think you know what they’re about after one song, when really there is so much more and you have it so wrong. Formed from the creative mind of singer songwriter, Adrian Drew, Investigator are in fact a five piece from Auckland doing everything right with their new album release, Shade If you’re familiar with their sound you’ll know their penchant for melody and darkness, an almost evolving sound each new verse or chorus.
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Book Review: Matthew Goody - Needles and Pins: The Flying Nun Story 1981 - 1989
09 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have been a writer for more than 30 years, have written thousands of reviews and literally millions of words, while a publisher has also seen fit to put out four books and ask when the next ones are coming. Yet having been looking through this I feel totally inadequate, as this is one of the most incredible pieces of work I have ever come across.
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09 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have been a writer for more than 30 years, have written thousands of reviews and literally millions of words, while a publisher has also seen fit to put out four books and ask when the next ones are coming. Yet having been looking through this I feel totally inadequate, as this is one of the most incredible pieces of work I have ever come across.
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Pieces Of Molly - Album Review: Pieces Of Molly
09 Nov 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Have you ever heard a tune for the very first time, and within 10 seconds been like "holy crap this is insane, where did this come from???" Very few bands that I listen to ever give me that massive burst in energy like i got when opening the very first track Atomic Fuzz on Pieces Of Molly’s brand new self-titled album.
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No Cigar - Gig Review: No Cigar @ Galatos, Auckland - 5/11/2022
09 Nov 2022 // A review by LouClementine
No Cigar played Auckland on the final date of their Bienvenido Album Release Tour. Nestled behind Karangahape Road, the venue, Galatos, was sold out and packed to the brim on an electric Saturday night.
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Eve Kelly - Single Review: Gotta Let Go
08 Nov 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Gotta Let Go is the new contemporary anthem from Eve Kelly, a vocalist born and raised in Whakatane. Eve grew up performing in music theatre around Aotearoa, as well as singing in national competitions and at smaller gigs such as weddings and local fundraisers.
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laura. - Single/Video Review: Safety in Numbers (Graeme Woller Remix)
08 Nov 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Taranaki songwriter Laura Griffiths is releasing a banging dance remix of her hugely popular track Safety In Numbers. This version produced by Graeme Woller, transforms a “fun indie pop” tune into a dance banger.
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Finn Johansson - Single Review: You Look Down At Me
08 Nov 2022 // A review by taffynz
I am SO having a golden run with these reviews! Yet another that has sent me to that place I like to go.
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NZTrio - Gig Review: NZTrio @ Pah Homestead, Auckland - 06/11/2022
08 Nov 2022 // A review by Clare Martin
NZTrio treated us to some very tasty mouthfuls of their Legacy 3 programme on Sunday night at Auckland’s Pah Homestead. It was the final third of their Legacy series, marking their proud twenty-year anniversary.
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Christine White - Single Review: Taken
08 Nov 2022 // A review by mebaynes
Acclaimed music maker, Christine White, released a lush new single Taken on October 27th. The second single and video from her upcoming multifaceted release, The Raven Project due for release on November 24th 2022, is an epic collaboration with over fifty musicians and artists including legendary composer John Psathas.
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Kiero - Single Review: Kiero
07 Nov 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Kiero, a relatively new three-piece from Tamaki Makaurau, made up of musicians who are definitely not new to creating colourful noise. There is Michael Collier on keyboards, Jin Song on bass, and bandmate as well as a great friend of mine, Grant Kirkpatrick on drums.
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Adam Hattaway & The Haunters - Gig Review: Adam Hattaway and the Haunters @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 04/11/2022
07 Nov 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Rick Topp opened for Adam Hattaway and the Haunters on Friday night three hours before pumpkin time. You know Rick Topp, you might not think so, but you do.
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Crying Club - Single Review: Hide
06 Nov 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Poneke Wellington indie-emo maestros Crying Club, formerly and hilariously known as The Chonus Brothers, have made waves both in Tamaki Makaurau as well as in their usual stomping grounds of the Capital. After said name change, and the release of their brilliant 2021 single Taxi Man, the quartet pressed on, and are now proud to present to the world a dark, new single for all to sing along to, headbang with, and feel appropriately glum to.
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Riqi Harawira - Single/Video Review: E Rere Ai (Fly Away)
06 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
E rere ai is a song which originally came from a poem written by Riqi and his partner Floss (who appears in the video) which touches on love, hopes, and dreams. They are a Maori/Pakeha blended couple deeply in love with each other, with the idea of an equal union formed in Aroha (love) and respect even though they are from different cultures and backgrounds.
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Curlys Jewels - Single Review: Criminal
06 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Curlys Jewels' Criminal begins with one hell of a riff inspired by the glory days of 90’s grunge, but produced with a little more bite giving it a metallic vibe. I instantly thought of Alice in Chains, not only as an influence on the song but also as another band that drew heavily from both genres.
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Finger Tight - Gig Review: Finger Tight @ Zeal, Auckland - 05/11/2022
05 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This Saturday found me over in West Auckland for my first ever event at Zeal, which I have on good authority used to be the hub for punk/metalcore/hardcore shows back in the day. This was an all-ages show, so was starting at the ungodly hour of 7:30, but at least I had a great place to sit and write, on the desk next to the lighting and sound, with a proper chair with a back!
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Reece Milton - Album Review: Elixir
05 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut album from Wellington-born and Nelson-raised singer songwriter Reece Milton. As with many other young Kiwi musicians, Reece was involved with Smokefree Rockquest, where his band won their regional heats in 2018.
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Teraset - Album Review: Bones of Contention
04 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back in 2018, drummer Will Stairmand was undertaking interviews for Angie's Gunroom Sessions, when he came across a demo by a band called Teraset. He enjoyed it, so arranged an interview with those involved and discovered that it was guitarist Lee Mallett’s project along with some mates.
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Jack Robertson - Single Review: Dim Lights
04 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I must confess that I know nothing about singer songwriter singer songwriter Jack Robertson apart from the fact he released his debut album Broke and Broken back in 2019, and then released some singles earlier this year. When I think of a singer songwriter, I think of someone playing an acoustic guitar, with or without support, what I don’t expect is a song with an annoyingly catchy riff which owes more to the blues than anything else and contains a dynamite guitar solo near the end.
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Molly Devine - EP Review: Still Here
03 Nov 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otepoti musician Molly Devine releases her new EP Still Here today, on November 4th.The three track EP is a collection of thoughtful and powerful songs that tell the story of Devine's experience with dating app Bumble.
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Amanaki - EP Review: Tempest
03 Nov 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
Hardcore.It tends to mean extreme.
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Deep Water Creek - Single Review: Bucket Spider
03 Nov 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the first time I have come across Otautahi-based singer/songwriter Deep Water Creek (Matthew Smith), but this single is taken from his forthcoming third album, so I obviously have some catching up to do. Recorded and mixed by Josh Logan at Loho studios, what we have here is a confident singer/songwriter very much in the classic Paul Simon style, and one where there has been a great deal of work undertaken in the arrangement which really makes this stand out.
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Adam Hattaway & The Haunters - Album Review: Bug Eyes
03 Nov 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Have you ever looked a bug in the eye? It’s scary stuff.
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Nika - Single Review: Saviour Complex
03 Nov 2022 // A review by darryl baser
A song with an interesting title will always grab my attention, and the idea of people with a saviour complex has always fascinated me, so when the new song by Nika called Saviour Complex was offered to me to review I almost somersaulted. The song opens with a gently and alluring piano melody before Nika’s voice kicks in and from the first notes some vocal training is obvious.
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Scarlett Eden - Single Review: Real Life
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Scarlett Eden’s new track released this October 21st, and it’s called Real Life. Coining herself a "funked up pop filled R&B singer", Scarlett experiments with blues, funk, jazz, R&B, and soul.
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Deprivacy - Single Review: Beneath
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Beneath is the latest single from former one man metal act, Deprivacy, AKA Robbie Scott. If you’re familiar with his offerings, you’ll know what a powerhouse of talent he is and I’m so stoked to dive into his latest single for our listening pleasure.
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Jack Panther - Single Review: Weekend At Bernies
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Fresh off the success of his sophomore EP why don't you come over?, Auckland creative Jack Panther is back with new single Weekend At Bernies, a tight alt-pop release carefully positioned for commercial success.
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Jaggers x Ska - Single Review: Blue to Grey
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Jaggers x Ska are a Dunedin duo made up of Ridge Jaggers (drums, bass, keyboard, production) and Skalisko (guitar, keyboards, bass, vocals). Blue to Grey is a dark disco-tinged goth pop song that sounds like it would play at the gates of purgatory in a David Lynch movie.
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Desbot - Album Review: Pass of Change
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Desbot is made up of Maurice Beckett (bass), from Napier’s post rock legends, Jakob. He is joined by Nick Blow (keyboards) and Tom Pierard (drums).
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The Dirty Tones - Album Review: Can't Stop
02 Nov 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
@page size: 21cm 29.7cm; margin: 2cm p { line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0.
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The Late Starters - Single Review: False Victim
31 Oct 2022 // A review by taffynz
Okay, here's another belter. Christchurch's groovy rockers The Late Starters are releasing their new single False Victim on 1st November, and you need to hear it.
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Gig Review: Come Together - Tom Petty @ Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland - 30/10/2022
31 Oct 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Tom Petty hit us like a bullet train in 1976. It was London, and prog rock was being challenged by punk.
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31 Oct 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Tom Petty hit us like a bullet train in 1976. It was London, and prog rock was being challenged by punk.
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Ryumas - Album Review: Brand. Construct. Form.
31 Oct 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Dunedin-dwelling producer and musician Hamish Crabb, under his stage-name Ryumas, has been creating experimental electronic music for the past four years. In the present day of October 2022, his collated work over that time has been released as a full-length album.
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Villainy - Gig Review: Villainy @ The Powerstation, Auckland - 28/10/2022
31 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been 10 years since Villainy released Mode. Set.
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The Treasury - EP Review: Shimmer / I'll Return From On The Sea
29 Oct 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
I get a lot of pretty obscure releases thrown my way. For every Six60 single, there are fifty songs you will never hear, from artists you have never heard of.
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Keeltys - EP Review: Strange
29 Oct 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
For a place that is the epitome of Aotearoa’s blokey sport-heavy monoculture, Otautahi is having a remarkable renaissance of churning out quality bands and artists. Jazz-rock infused pop band Keelty’s have just added their name to the roll-call sheet with their debut EP Strange.
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Thrashing Marlin - Album Review: Wildlife
28 Oct 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
I wasn’t sure about anything, let alone a band, called Thrashing Marlin]. Are they beating a marlin with a rod or are they invoking a marlin trying to shake off a hook?
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Aldous Harding - Gig Review: Aldous Harding @ Auckland Town Hall, Auckland - 26/10/2022
28 Oct 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Ah, Aldous, it’s been three years since you filled the PowerStation twice and etched your name and face in our annals. Three long years, only relieved by a cameo at the Flying Nun birthday party last year.
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The Nukes - Album Review: Homespun
27 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have always had a soft spot for folk music, and five years ago travelled to the other side of the world just for a folk festival (honest), but one instrument I did not come across a great deal in the UK was the ukulele, probably due in no small manner to everyone there relating that instrument to the entertainer George Formby. Here in Aotearoa, and in the Pacific in general, there is a far different approach to the instrument although this is the first time I have come across a ukulele trio (although they do also play additional instruments and also have numerous guest musicians and singers).
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Grant Haua - Album Review: Tahanga (Unplugged)
27 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Some 40+ years ago David Coverdale sang the immortal words, “I love the blues, They tell my story, If you don't feel it you can never understand” and they are as true today as they ever were. If you get the blues, really get the blues, there is nothing else like it and although I love the electric works of Lightnin’ Hopkins, T-Bone Walker and Muddy Waters, there is something about the pre-war acoustic blues which hold a special place, people like Blind Lemon Jefferson, Blind Blake, Lead Belly and so many others.
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Renee Millner - EP Review: Fly Me Back
27 Oct 2022 // A review by Hannah Jane
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of reviewing New Zealand based Australian singer-songwriter Renée Millner’s single Not OK, and much to my delight I have been listening to her EP Fly Me Back over and over ever since. The five songs contained within this album all carry a gentle strength both lyrically and melodically, and the music surrounding them is truly lovely.
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Impostor Syndrome - Album Review: Oriens
27 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Impostor Syndrome is an experimental recording project based in Auckland, New Zealand. Becoming best of friends as seventeen-year-olds over a shared love of Alice in Chains, it took until 2019 before vocalist Ryan Culleton, drummer Scott Nicolson and multi-instrumentalist Shannon Coulomb were to create music together as a unit.
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Amanaki - Single Review: Tumor
26 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Amanaki are back with the second single from their forthcoming EP, Tempest, and is a song which they say was incredibly difficult to record, and even harder to play live given the emotions behind it. During the first lockdown, April discovered that her father’s cancer had spread, and she was unable to see her parents through much of that time.
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Kyla Greening - Single Review: Promises
26 Oct 2022 // A review by mebaynes
Promises by Kyla Greening is described as a "funkadelic 'boy-bye' to promise-breakers that have led you on for too long" - inspired by the grooves and rhythms of neo-soul and hip-hop artists like D'angelo and Erykah Badu. Yes I hear those famous Soulquarians in this track, but I also hear Prince (or TAFKAP), Beyoncé-like pop sensibilities, all of this is wrapped up using an up-to-date production style.
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Racing - Album Review: Must Be The Moon
26 Oct 2022 // A review by Investigator
Must Be The Moon is the sophomore album from electro-rockers Racing. Boasting the talented line up of Ed Knowles and Sven Pettersen (The Checks), Daniel Barrett (Sherpa) and Izaak Houston (Space Creeps), it's not surprising that the band have achieved some notable success.
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Gig Review: Emo Day Party @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 23/10/2022
25 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Being a glutton for punishment, I was back out the next day at an even more stupid time to catch the Emo Day Party which was taking place over the three floors of Ding Dong Lounge in conjunction with next door’s nightclub, Infinity. The stage was actually up in the nightclub, and it was the first time I had ventured in there so this was going to be interesting.
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25 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Being a glutton for punishment, I was back out the next day at an even more stupid time to catch the Emo Day Party which was taking place over the three floors of Ding Dong Lounge in conjunction with next door’s nightclub, Infinity. The stage was actually up in the nightclub, and it was the first time I had ventured in there so this was going to be interesting.
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Stonehurst - Single Review: Whispers
24 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Don’t let the first ten seconds of the latest single from Christchurch outfit Stonehurst lull you into a false sense of security. Admittedly, I was staring at the speakers trying to work out what was going on and equate the sounds with the band I saw play last year but then everything crunches, and we are off.
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Reece Milton - Single Review: Ms Mona Lisa
23 Oct 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Born in Wellington, and raised in Nelson, Reece Milton is a singer songwriter and guitarist who’s recently earned a recording contract with Antipodes Records, and management with StudioBox Creative. Finding licks that match indie rock influence, pop and a bit of jazz, Reece has created a new single which follows the success of his debut.
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Festival Review: The Others Way Festival, Auckland - 22/10/2022
23 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This evening was my first visit to The Others Way, a festival being held up and down K Road in Auckland featuring eight different venues. This meant getting into the city unreasonably early as the first band on my list was starting at 6:15!
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23 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This evening was my first visit to The Others Way, a festival being held up and down K Road in Auckland featuring eight different venues. This meant getting into the city unreasonably early as the first band on my list was starting at 6:15!
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Pitch Black - Single Review: Exodus
22 Oct 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Having been in the scene for over a quarter of a decade, Pitch Black would know a thing or two about the past and present. Consisting of producers and musicians Paddy Free and Michael Hodgson, the duo toured the globe and played countless numbers of festivals and gigs both in Aotearoa and abroad.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Bands Competition Heat 3 @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 21/10/2022
21 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
In 2020 I attended the heats of this competition which was where I discovered bands such as White Noise Mafia, Café Fistfight, Channeled and so many others. Of course, due to the small matter of a global pandemic and a lockdown there was no competition last year, but here it is back in 2022.
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21 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
In 2020 I attended the heats of this competition which was where I discovered bands such as White Noise Mafia, Café Fistfight, Channeled and so many others. Of course, due to the small matter of a global pandemic and a lockdown there was no competition last year, but here it is back in 2022.
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Jaz Paterson - Single Review: Older
21 Oct 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Geraldine-raised, Christchurch-based performer Jaz Paterson’s latest release Older takes a stripped-back approach to her electronic artistry. Soft, smooth and serious, it’s a unique single stepping into new territory for the pop musician.
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Finger Tight - Album Review: Messages From The End of the World
20 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
In June of last year I made my way to Wine Cellar to see Melanie for the first time, and one of the bands on the bill that night were Finger Tight, and when I reviewed them I said “I was extremely impressed by the end and found it hard to believe this is just their third gig – we are going to be hearing a lot more of these guys.” Since then, I have reviewed some singles, one of which (I Hear It Rains In Seattle) is included on this their debut album which is going to make a lot of people sit up and take notice as this is a punk/pop/emo banger from start to finish.
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Blindspott - Single Review: Pretty Violent
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
What can you say about Blindspott which hasn’t already been said? When it comes to metal icons from NZ, there are few who exist in the same rarefied atmosphere as these guys, and when I saw them play recently there was no doubt they were among friends who knew all the words to every song.
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Sounds Escape - Album Review: Voices
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Sounds Escape is a new project by multi-instrumentalist Logan Wedgwood, with Voices being the debut release. This six-track 30-minute-long instrumental album was conceived during the first Auckland lockdown when Logan discovered he and his wife were not coping well with the stresses of being at home all the time, attempting to combine parenting with Zoom meetings and each other.
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Crooked Royals - Album Review: Quarter Life Day Dream
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Kiwi progressive Metalcore 5-piece Crooked Royals are a ticking time bomb, the anticipation and hype for their debut album Quarter Life Day Dream is brewing, and their path to global domination has been building since their inception. They have come out of pit swinging and have hit 2022 hard, heavy and ready to take on the international stage.
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Skank Bandit - Single Review: I Am The Master?
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The latest single from New Plymouth outfit Skank Bandit explores themes of doubt, self-belief, and self-control, promoting awareness of the risks of drink driving and challenging people to take responsibility for their actions and choices in life. It is an unusual song in many ways, as while the repeated guitar riff is hypnotic and light, the lyrics are dark, and when the guitar crunches, we are taken away from summer and into something else altogether.
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Devils Elbow - EP Review: Riverlands
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been quite a while since we last heard from Hawkes Bay trio Devils Elbow, but here they are back with their latest EP Riverlands. One thing which is interesting to note is that only Alec Withers (vocals, guitars, percussion) plays on all four tracks, while the threesome play as such on just one, then they are joined by an additional guitarist on another, while the last two are just Alec and a different keyboard player on each track.
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Fear Up Harsh - Album Review: Fear Up Harsh (III)
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
It’s been described before here on Muzic.net.
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2Fly Ty - Single Review: Dance Floor
19 Oct 2022 // A review by 24KLegacy
2Fly Ty has released his single Dance Floor, a high energy rap song revolved around the artists story of a night out. Describing his night as he follows a woman through the nightclub, 2Fly Ty flows across the song with his catchy hook over the bass and kick instrumental.
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The Seizure Police - EP Review: Volume 1
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
When I say that this release is perfect for meditation I intend it as a compliment. It’s difficult to make music this laid back, this thoroughly reliant on delay; this austere.
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S H E - Single/Video Review: Everything Was In Black And White
19 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Everything Was In Black and White is the newest single from Wellington’s S H E, and it packs a wallop. The band have described their sound as "Lady Gaga meets My Bloody Valentine" and although I was sceptical of such a description at first, it all makes sense when you hear the song (or see the fantastic video that features members in drag alter-egos and is shot in glorious 4K, and of course, in black and white).
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Demons of Noon - Single Review: Sphere of Peace
18 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across Demons of Noon when they opened for the mighty Beastwars at the Powerstation last year, and I came away very impressed indeed by raw sludge-driven doom, and also noted that when they had two female singers come on stage for the last few songs the dynamic changed considerably. Since then, singer Sophie Jackson has left the band and moved to Wellington, and they have just gained a replacement in Tamsyn Matchett but she does not feature on this single, just Aria Jones.
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Claudia Robin Gunn - Album Review: Sing For The Sea
18 Oct 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland songwriter Claudia Gunn has recently released her latest family friendly album Sing For The Sea (Little Wild Ocean Friends). A robust 24 tracks of delightful marine themed songs.
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Troy Kingi - Gig Review: Troy Kingi and The Promises @ Powerstation, Auckland - 14/10/2022
17 Oct 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Available on both vinyl and cassette, Troy Kingi’s (Te Arawa, Ngapuhi, Te Whanau-a-Apanui) new album, Year of The Ratbags and Their Musty Theme Songs, was debuted at the Powerstation, Auckland. It was a fun and fantastic return to live performance for 2022, following the years of COVID cancellations and absences.
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Sweet Mix Kids - Album Review: Stargazing
17 Oct 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Sweet Mix Kids are an Auckland DJ/Production duo made up of Sandon James and Chris Scott. They've played some of the hottest parties around the world, including a sold out 14,000 Synthony show at Spark Arena.
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Into Orbit - Gig Review: Into Orbit @ San Fran, Wellington - 14/10/2022
17 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
A mere two days before Spook the Horses were scheduled to play a much anticipated show at Wellington’s San Fran, it was announced they would not be playing at all. Due to some of the members contracting Covid, the band posted on social media that the gig would be going ahead with fellow Wellingtonians Into Orbit taking their place as the headliner.
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Gig Review: Ding Dong Bands Competition Heat 1 @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 14/09/2022
16 Oct 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
I remember entering this competition for 3 consecutive years (if I remember correctly), during my early days of playing in bands. Each time with a different act, 2 times making the Grand Final.
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16 Oct 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
I remember entering this competition for 3 consecutive years (if I remember correctly), during my early days of playing in bands. Each time with a different act, 2 times making the Grand Final.
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Alba Rose - Single Review: Mountains
16 Oct 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Alba Rose’s new indie-pop track Mountains is indescribable. Bright and dynamic, simple yet full, it’s a song devoted to following through on your feelings and declaring, “I can’t be scared of love”.
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Mel Parsons - Gig Review: Mel Parsons @ Hollywood Avondale, Auckland - 15/10/2022
16 Oct 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
I’m slow on the lesson, I’m slow on the learn, getting into Mel Parsons has been a slow burn. Painting the fence got me started last November before her solo gig at Tuning Fork.
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Lorenzo Vichi - EP Review: Anima
14 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This 13-minute-long 3-track instrumental album is by Lorenzo Vichi, an Italian who now lives in Aotearoa. Everything we hear on the EP was written, arranged, recorded, mixed, produced and edited by Lorenzo who decided to record and produce this EP by himself to demonstrate that it is possible to make music without the need for expensive equipment.
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Eliezer - Single Review: Certified Professional Dreamer
14 Oct 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Eliezer is back after a little while with his new track Certified Professional Dreamer. Produced with long-time collaborator Ten Oh, the track continues to show why Eliezer is name you need to stay aware of.
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Teazse - Single Review: Love, Money Or Drugs
14 Oct 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
The new single from Teazse, an independent rap artist from Auckland, brings a lot of what people like about modern hip hop and brings it into his own world, while still acknowledging the sound of those that came before. For example, the sampled pitched voice works well when used well, and it's done here well.
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Scalper - Single Review: I'm Life Feat Nawazish Ali Khan
14 Oct 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Scalper is Nadeem Shafi, born and raised in East London of Pakistani descent. First seen in Aotearoa New Zealand at WOMAD 1997 as the vocalist for the British band Fun-da-mental.
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Christine White - Single Review: Raven
14 Oct 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Christine White is an experienced and accomplished composer, with an impressive musical background. Raven is the first part of what is being described as a ‘multifaceted release’ called The Raven Project and is available on video and audio formats.
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Roonie - Single Review: The Way It Should Be
13 Oct 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Pop artist Roonie releases her new single The Way It Should Be today, Friday 14th October 2022. Taupo raised, Christchurch based Roonie is Michaela Pointon, who burst onto the scene in 2020 with the release of her debut single My Heart.
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TeamSquad - EP Review: All Dream
13 Oct 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
TeamSquad is a Whaingaroa/Raglan powerhouse (no pun intended) duo Ruth and Kane Power who have a unique synth rock blend, marching to the beat of their own drum. All Dream is their second EP compromising of four stunning tracks that are truly their own.
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Vogel Town - Single Review: Desert Toast
13 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Wellington-based indie-alternative band Vogel Town who feature Andrew Roberts is on the guitar, and Aaron Mody on drums/percussion. This instrumental track starts with some hand drums and a single guitar playing a repeated riff, and then quickly builds so we have a full drum kit and at least three guitars and a bass being deployed.
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Anthea de Milo - Single Review: Dead Sea
13 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second single to be taken from Anthea’s forthcoming debut solo album, The Vicar’s Daughter, which will be out later this year. Hailing from Lyttleton, she used to spend her Wednesday nights with The Eastern until Adam McGrath told her, ''you gotta write your own music'', so she did, forming the country, rock 'n' roll machine Runaround Sue with whom she recorded two albums and toured widely.
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Parasitic Infestation - EP Review: Intergalactic Harvest
13 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Brutal death metal Auckland quintet have just released their debut 5-track EP, following on from the two singles which were released from it last year. I was lucky enough to see these guys when they supported Pale Flag earlier this year, while I have also caught singer Liam Hand in his other band Silent Torture, with the band being completed by Aidan McGorry (guitar), Grady Gottler (lead guitar), Jacob Raffaelli (bass) and Blake Plester (drums).
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Broke - Single Review: Through Her Eyes
12 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When Lisa sent me this, she said to me that Broke reminded her of The Rabble. Now, although I am playing rapid catchup on NZ bands, that is a band I know as they were connected with Orewa College and one of my daughters even wrote and recorded a song with Chas.
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Villainy - Single Review: The Launch
12 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I was chatting with singer/guitarist Neill Fraser from Villainy at a gig recently, and we agreed that the acoustic style gig they did with Dead Favours earlier in the year was fun, but we were both looking forward to having Villainy back on a rock stage (roll on next month, got your tickets yet?).
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Paddy and the Cryptids - EP Review: Demo EP
12 Oct 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Paddy and the Cryptids are a three piece up and coming Punk/New Wave medley hailing from the sunny Hawkes Bay. This is their self- titled debut EP and straight off the bat there is everything to enjoy about this short, sweet and to the point 4 track ensemble.
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Erin Myers - Single Review: Bad Reception
12 Oct 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Hamilton based multi-talented musician Erin Myers has taken a new musical direction with her latest release Bad Reception. An evocative track as the name suggests, telling a story of miscommunication and loneliness within a relationship.
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Troy Kingi - Album Review: The Year of the Ratbags And Their Musty Theme Songs
11 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It is safe to say there is no other artist in New Zealand currently working at the pace of Troy Kingi. Earlier this year he released the te reo version of Holy Colony Burning Acres, Pu Whenua Hautapu, Eka Mumura, finished the tour for Black Sea Golden Ladder, and is now back with his latest album, Year of The Ratbags and Their Musty Theme Songs, while already in the studio with TeMatera Smith working on his next one.
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Xile - Album Review: I Am Your God
09 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last weekend I was at Whammy Bar in Auckland to see the album release show for Xile’s I Am Your God. Thanks to a certain pandemic this album almost slipped out with people not realising, as it was released in May 2020 back when everyone in NZ was in lockdown.
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Blindspott - Gig Review: Blindspott & Written By Wolves @ The Factory, Hamilton - 8/10/2022
09 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When the tour was originally announced there was no Auckland gig, so I quickly put my hand up for this one, and by the time an Auckland show was pencilled in I was already committed to see Reb Fountain on that date, but there was no way I was going to miss them this time around. It may be more than 100 kms to the gig, and it took me ages to find somewhere to park, but that all went out the window when I wandered to the back door and was greeted by Davie wanting to know if I would like a beer.
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Renee Millner - Single Review: Not OK
07 Oct 2022 // A review by Hannah Jane
New Zealand based Australian singer-songwriter Renee Millner has an ethereal voice that carries a gentle strength through the bars of a rhyme in a way that brings otherworldly artists Annie Lennox, Sinead O’Connor, and Dolores O’Riordan to mind like kindred spirits. Within moments of hearing her new single Not OK, Renee whispers something beautifully familiar in my ear, and her melodies carry me away somehow to Scottish Highlands I have never seen before.
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CRYSTAL - EP Review: Garlic Ice Cream
07 Oct 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Aotearoa artist and producer Crystal delves into the complexities of youth on Garlic Ice Cream. The debut EP takes a heavily electronic approach to the anxieties of stepping into adulthood, empowered by Crystal’s honest songwriting and production skill.
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Volts - Single Review: When You Go
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last month a gig I was planning to attend fell through, so I looked around and ended up going to Wine Cellar, where the headline band that night was a group from Christchurch I had not previously come across, Volts. Their combination of melodic classic rock with female vocals and great stage presence just blew me away, and I had difficulty comprehending that I had not come across them previously as there is something about them which is incredibly special.
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Amanaki - Single Review: Leech Feat. Luke Manson
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I had to smile when I saw this single, as while melodic hardcore outfit Amanaki is new to me, on this release they have a guest in the form of Luke Manson, who I have seen in both Antagonist AD and Xile in recent weeks. Punchy, fast, and hard-hitting, Leech has an underlying repeated sound (not sure if it is synth or treated looped guitar to be honest, could be either) and there is a lot packed into its 128 seconds.
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Glasshouse Keepers - EP Review: Scratching The Surface
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I was at a gig last week, and was really intrigued by the opening act, Glasshouse Keepers, very much enjoying their complex rock sound with female lead vocals, so when I realised they had released a four-track EP called Scratching The Surface earlier this year I knew I had to check it out. The band comprise Danielle Hawkins (vocals), Brian McDonald (lead guitar and screams), Linton Graetz (rhythm guitar and backing vocals), Giacobe Otty (bass) and Kevin Jaspers (drums), and they are an alternative rock band who have a great deal of complexity within the arrangement and then over the top there are Danielle’s vocals which are quite sweet and innocent in comparison.
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Mirrored Walls - EP Review: if i didn't have you here
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Mirrored Walls' first EP, if i didn’t have you here features a wide range of sounds and genre influences, but somehow it all makes sense. On the cover, a couple walks away from us in a faded blue image, but one figure is distorted perhaps through how they are remembered by the other.
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Blake - EP Review: Skeptical
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Queenstown-born, Auckland-based alt-pop starlet Blake is Skeptical on her newly released sophomore EP. It’s a smooth, soulful collection narrating the highs and lows of the dating scene, blending a range of genres into a compact pop format.
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Murmur Tooth - Single Review: Antidote w/ Lars Moston
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
I conducted an email interview a couple of years back with Leah Hinton, aka. Murmur Tooth, and was impressed by her work, thus I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to hear what she’s been up to in the years during the pandemic.
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Madeline. - Single Review: Consume
06 Oct 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
“These violent delights have violent ends”, opens Madeline’s debut single, an infamous quote from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet which sets the scene for the brutality of Consume. It’s the artist’s first solo release away from her alt-rock band She Loves You.
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The RVMES - Single Review: Simple Things
05 Oct 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Oh My God. There are bangers then there’s this tune.
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Leejun - Album Review: Leejunardo Da Vinci
03 Oct 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Leejun is a Hip-Hop R&B Artist who lives and works in the 03 Christchurch, New Zealand. His complex lyricism and smooth delivery alongside his soulful singing voice reflect the amount of time he's dedicated to working on his craft.
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Gig Review: Immolated Volume 3 @ Valhalla, Wellington - 30/09/2022
03 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
In the murky surroundings of Vivian Street I followed the sounds and smells to Immolated Volume 3 at Valhalla. Initially I was confused about the entrance to the gig, but soon found my way before the stage where bands were still being set up.
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03 Oct 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
In the murky surroundings of Vivian Street I followed the sounds and smells to Immolated Volume 3 at Valhalla. Initially I was confused about the entrance to the gig, but soon found my way before the stage where bands were still being set up.
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Brown-E - Single Review: Give Me Your Love
02 Oct 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Jenna Palmer, AKA Brown-E, is a self-managed and independent singer songwriter based in Auckland and Tauranga. Stepping on the scene at the right time, she’s got a single for the sweethearts!
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Xile - Gig Review: Xile @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 01/10/2022
01 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
So, it is back out on K Road again for another gig, but strangely enough I am sure this is the first time I have been at Whammy Bar in more than a year, and tonight it is for Xile’s album release show. It shows just what strange times we have been living in as I Am Your God has been out for a couple of years, but this was the first opportunity for them to get out and play, so they were making the most of it.
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Dead Beat Boys - Album Review: Dead Beat Boys
01 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I’ve always had a soft spot for punk, ever since it exploded in the UK and my dad told me he would kick me out if he ever found any of that music in my collection. I was just 14 when the Pistols were due to play in the next town over (they were banned instead), and it was the most exciting thing to happen in the local music scene until 1980 when Genesis kicked off their national tour with two dates in Paignton.
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Gabriel Bond - Single Review: Temporary Insanity
01 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I was very impressed with the last single I heard of Gabriel’s, 2021’s Lights Burn Low, so when I asked to review this, I was looking forward to it. As I noticed last time, this is full of class with very high production, and does not sound like the performance of a musician who has yet to release his debut EP (out soon).
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Investigator - Gig Review: Investigator @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 30/09/2022
01 Oct 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back to Dead Witch for another night of rock ‘n’ roll. I have reviewed Investigator quite a lot and saw Crystalator support them the last time I saw them at the Cupid, but tonight the band opening was new to me, Glasshouse Keepers.
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Voodoo Bloo - Gig Review: Radicals w/ Voodoo Bloo @ Meow, Wellington - 29/09/2022
30 Sep 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
On a stormy, unusually wet Thursday, (even by Wellington’s standards), I approached Meow bar in the heart of the CBD to attend what would prove to be Voodoo Bloo’s homecoming gig of their recent tour. This event, their third to last, is in promotion for their latest offering, The Blessed Ghost.
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Miller Yule - Album Review: Let It Burn
29 Sep 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
You can tell by the name, can’t you, you can just tell. I mean, Dwight Yoakam couldn’t be anything but a country singer, could he?
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Dead Favours - Single Review: Sink or Swim
29 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Just the opening few bars of their new single lets the listener know that Dead Favours are back, and yet again they mean business. Charlie sets up an intricate backbeat, Kyle and Jared have their guitars in sync, and at the heart of it all is a filthy bassline with Alex providing melodies and countermelodies, so one is brought into the music long before Jared even starts singing!
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Impostor Syndrome - Single Review: I Talk Too Much
29 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Auckland trio Imposter Syndrome, which is based strongly on a riffed acoustic guitar (the sound of which is superb, congrats whoever engineered this), with vocals over the top. Due to its nature this has plenty of space within the arrangements as even when additional instruments are added they are sparse, so the concentration is always on the voice and the guitar.
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Old Salts - EP Review: Stories Told by the Sea
29 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Alt rockers Old Salts hail from the shores of Bream Bay, Northland, and features John Buckle (lead vocals, guitar) Scott Brown (lead guitar, BV) Marcus Jones (bass, BV), and Lucas Hargreaves (drums, BV). This four-track EP contains three previously released singles plus the new one, Casual Smoker, which they describe as being reminiscent of Barry Manilow meets RHCP.
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BO And the Constrictors - EP Review: Love
29 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
These guys are new to me, and when I checked them out, I realised they are from Dunedin, which is why I have not come across them yet on the Auckland circuit, but I do hope they can make it up here at some point as these three songs are a nice slice of rock, and they are doing something quite different with their sound. Named after lead singer/guitarist Boaz Anema, the band also comprises Dean Armitage (bass, backing vocals), Jacob Rutherford (slide guitar) and Callan Carne (drums).
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Trepidations - EP Review: Time Flies
28 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The latest EP from Trepidations follows a rather unusual format in that we have one vocal track which was recorded in a studio, and then three instrumental tracks which were played live which are quite different in approach and sound quality. Having not played any of their music before I must confess, I do not know if these distinctly different approaches are what one would expect from the trio, or whether one of these paths is new to them.
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Will McClean - Single Review: Man on a Mission
28 Sep 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Te Whanganui-a-Tara’s resident hip hop star Will McClean collaborates with Casual Healing on Man on a Mission, a mellow, emotive track that showcases his earnest lyricism. McClean’s verses capture a deceptively relaxed flow, that in actuality is carefully constructed with tight rhymes and subtle melodies.
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Ms.Take - Single Review: Grow
26 Sep 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Operating under the stage name Ms.Take, Lora Thompson has developed herself as a master of guitar pedals, as well as a producer, bassist, guitar player and audio engineer.
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Ekko Park - EP Review: UnMute
25 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when it is just impossible to write a review as I am having so much fun playing the music that I find myself hitting the desk in time with the drums, bopping to the beat and fully in the groove. Then the damn thing is finished, and I have to put it on again (not really an issue) and the debacle repeats!
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Gig Review: Smokefreerockquest National Finals @ Q Theatre, Auckland - 24/09/2022
25 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I must admit I had to look up the address for Q Theatre on Google as I had never heard of it but having found it, I realized I must have been past it hundreds of times as it is right next door to Auckland Town Hall. Tonight, I was at the finals for Smokefree Rock Quest, the most important school competition for music in Aotearoa, and it would not surprise me if it was one of the longest running in the world as they were celebrating 35 years of the event.
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25 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I must admit I had to look up the address for Q Theatre on Google as I had never heard of it but having found it, I realized I must have been past it hundreds of times as it is right next door to Auckland Town Hall. Tonight, I was at the finals for Smokefree Rock Quest, the most important school competition for music in Aotearoa, and it would not surprise me if it was one of the longest running in the world as they were celebrating 35 years of the event.
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Looking For Alaska - Gig Review: Looking for Alaska w/ Chris Dent @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 22/09/2022
24 Sep 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Here we are on a cool, wet spring night, but as always, it’s warm inside the Wine Cellar. In The Shallows were originally on this bill but have been plagued by some ill health and we can guess what that might be, so instead Looking for Alaska step up and, no surprise, invite their old mate Chris Dent (Albi) along to open the show.
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Achilles Complex - Gig Review: Achilles Complex @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 23/09/2022
24 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I cannot believe I have not been at Dead Witch since the beginning of July, but there has been so much music going on that I kept having clashes. Luckily, Harley asked if I could come and see Achilles Complex quite some time back so this date was locked in.
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Chris Bates - Single Review: Lose My Mind
22 Sep 2022 // A review by taffynz
In short, if I could give this a six out of five I would. Do I need to go on?
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Becca Caffyn - EP Review: The Replacement Blonde
22 Sep 2022 // A review by taffynz
Dunedin-based singer-songwriter Becca Caffyn brings us her debut EP release The Replacement Blonde, a four song journey through pivotal experiences that have left their mark on her 19 years in this life. Produced by Christchurch-based Will McGillivray (Goodwill) and mastered by Joe Faris, Becca has traversed Parachute Music's great Artist Development initiative.
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Planet Hunter - Album Review: Moscovium
22 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
On April 19th, 2018, the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite was launched on a two-year mission to find a rocky world with an atmosphere which could be probed for signs of life. Although it had an official name, the media just called it a planet hunter which seemed more exciting, and a Wellington rock band finally came across a name they felt was fitting for the music they were creating.
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Medusa Glare - Single Review: Lay It To Rest
21 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It is not unusual for me to have conversations with music lovers which revolve around me attempting to convince them there is a vibrant and exciting music scene in Aotearoa as sometimes it feels like I am coming across a wonderful new band on a daily basis, and here is another. I am sure if Medusa Glare were an Auckland act as opposed to being from the ‘Tron I would have come across them long before now, but given they were formed back in 2014 there really is no excuse on missing out on this classic hard rock band until now.
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Dark Divinity - Album Review: Unholy Rapture
21 Sep 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Formed in 2017 and based in Wellington, Dark Divinity might be a name you’re familiar with if you’re a Death Metal genre fan, or maybe even if you’re familiar with the local Wellington Metal scene in general. If not, then sit tight, you’re about to experience one hell of a journey.
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PolarisRadio - Album Review: Legend of the Broken Claw
21 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I was not too sure what to expect from PolarisRadio, which is the pseudonym for Dean Moroney, but I am pretty sure this wasn’t it! Dean’s music is normally described as Synthwave, and in some respects that still fits as here we have an instrumental album which appears to be based on a video game, yet while there are some tracks (such as Sea of Stars) which are solidly sat within that genre, there are plenty of others which do not.
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CACO - EP Review: Chisme
21 Sep 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
CACO is a 23-year-old South Auckland raised Iraqi. Over the last 6 years, CACO has become an all-encompassing musical artist; producing, mixing, mastering, writing and recording the near extent of his 30+ track catalogue.
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Captain Festus McBoyle's Travellin' Variety Show - Single Review: Leaking - The English Whinging Song
20 Sep 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
New Zealand's award winning pirate Captain Festus from the family entertainment troupe, Captain Festus McBoyle's Travellin' Variety Show has recently released another single from his up-and-coming album Look Wot The Cat Dragged In. Leaking - The English Whinging Song is an unapologetic musical whinge of unfortunate events from this sometimes unlucky pirates adventures.
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Stu J - Single Review: Hyper Slow
19 Sep 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Aotearoa-born producer, DJ and musician Stu J is a self-confessed lover of electronic music. Under his mononym, he has created and released up to three singles over the past two years, including the light and airy We Love The Moonlight, and the soundscape-heavy Destination Unknown.
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Thousand Limbs - Single Review: The Aurouchs - Ensnared
19 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second single from Auckland-based instrumental doom outfit Thousand Limbs. It is taken from their forthcoming debut album The Aurouchs, which is a ten-part song-cycle based on Kakuan Shien’s Ten Ox Herding Pictures, and is set to be released later this year, with each of the ten songs being based on one of the ten woodcuts.
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Jaqualyn Taimana Williams - Single Review: In Between
18 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
In Between is the third single from the upcoming 2023 EP Guns Of Dialogue, but is the first time I have personally come across Jaqualyn Taimana Williams. As with her debut album she has been working with producer Tim Skedden and Chris Chetland, and when I read that I was somewhat confused as the way this song starts there is no way that it sounds as if Chris has been involved as I have huge admiration for what comes out of Kog Studio.
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Dub Asylum - Album Review: Beg, Steel or Borrow
18 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have no idea who many albums I have reviewed over the last 35 years, but it is countless thousands, while the words written are well into the millions, but I must confess this is the first time I have ever been asked to review an album where steel drums are the main instrument, let alone when they are being used to play dub versions of Kiwi classics! The man behind Dub Asylum is Peter McLennan, who formed this project after leaving reggae-thrash-punk-ska outfit Hallelujah Picassos in the Nineties.
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Volts - Gig Review: Volts @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 16/09/2022
16 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
To be honest, I wasn’t supposed to be here tonight, but yesterday I was checking out the gig I was supposed to be attending only to discover the band had pulled out due to injury. Although I had already reviewed one show this week (the excellent Pop Will Eat Itself at Tuning Fork) I had been geared up for this one so wondered, what else was on in Auckland?
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Silcrow - Single Review: Keep The Silence
15 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Silcrow will be a new name to many, it certainly was to me as it was only when I was arranging to see them play recently that I discovered this is the new name for Close to the Bone. I was aware of that band, but had not seen them play, although I had seen lead singer Lorenzo Hazlewood undertake an acoustic set.
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Big Tasty - Single Review: Diamond Eyed
15 Sep 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based 9-piece funk and soul band Big Tasty have just released a groovy disco inspired track with an epic full sound. Diamond Eyed is possibly one of the best original 70's soulful disco beats I have come across in a very long time.
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Anxiety Club - Album Review: Old Dreams
15 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
A little while back I was fortunate enough to hear the single Carousel, and now Wellington-based Anxiety Club are back with the album. As I said in the earlier review, due to various reasons Kev Fitzsimons (Thom Cross) and Clint Meech (Matt Langley band) found themselves as the only band members left, and with Kev suffering an injury which meant he could not play guitar they could either quit or bring in some others to help out.
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Mel Parsons - Album Review: Slow Burn
15 Sep 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Mel Parsons’ 5th album is out today, September 16 and it’s been a Slow Burn, a journey of highs and lows as the world of lockdown and locked out intervened in thousands of creative processes sometimes positively other times depressingly and if nothing else this record is a reflection of these times. The opening track, Lights “when the lights can’t always be on, you can’t expect that I’ll always be strong” captures the malaise which follows a pandemic, and the dark flavour and nuance of the songs on Slow Burn often conflate the sense of generic, world melancholy with deep personal issues.
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Honeybee - EP Review: From An Unreliable Source
15 Sep 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
After the success of their first EP Dusty, Honeybee return with a solid and positively shimmering five-track EP written and recorded during the uncertainty of the lockdown period. This offering contains the same heavily effects laden guitars from Dusty, but there is more energy and perhaps less influence from hip hop.
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Planet Hunter - Single Review: Humans of the Wild
15 Sep 2022 // A review by Investigator
Humans of the Wild is the first single from Wellington rock band, Planet Hunter, off their upcoming album Moscovium. I profess to not having heard of Planet Hunter before, they are self-described as having a small but dedicated following in Wellington's heavy rock scene.
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Frau Knotz - Single/Video Review: Supernova
15 Sep 2022 // A review by taffynz
Frau Knotz (Lauren Nottingham) has what her former Mexican host family would describe as cojones. She found herself stuck in Mexico City - not the world's most placid of places - for eight months during the height of the pandemic, thanks to a cruise ship gig being cancelled three days after she arrived there.
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The Hopkinsville Goblins - Album Review: Bite the Wax Tadpole
14 Sep 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
The Hopkinsville Goblins is always a challenging review. If you want it done right, you really need some hard-broiled journalist from a bygone era on the job, not some gumshoe with a grudge like me.
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Landlords - EP Review: Codeine
12 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second EP from Hamilton-based quartet Landlords containing five songs at approximately 20 minutes in length. Interestingly the band are signed with a UK label, something I only realised when I checked out their Bandcamp page and could not work out why prices were in sterling instead of NZD.
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Shepherds Reign - Gig Review: Shepherds Reign @ Galatos, Auckland - 10/09/2022
12 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, was another rescheduled gig from Covid, as this was originally planned to take place to celebrate Matariki, the Maori New Year, but because of band illness could not take place at the time. Due to other commitments, I had missed seeing Shepherds Reign when they supported The Hu last month, so was really looking forward to this I had not seen them play since the middle of last year.
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Nadia Reid - Gig Review: Nadia Reid & Jenny Mitchell @ Auckland Town Hall, Auckland - 09/09/2022
11 Sep 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Worth the wait might be the short summary of an epic and memorable evening with Nadia Reid with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra and support from Jenny Mitchell. Both acts were accompanied by their bands and a packed Auckland Town Hall cheered every song.
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Lung - Album Review: Bad Acid Soundtracks II
11 Sep 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Lung was a legendary punk, noise band in the early 90’s that embarked on world tours in the Northern Hemisphere and were lauded by none other than the mighty John Peel. Despite this, by 1994 they were splintering after a tumultuous and short career.
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Dillastrate - Single Review: Taku Aroha
09 Sep 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Dillastrate is made up of drummer/vocalist Henare 'H' Kaa and Tim Driver who handles Keys/loops/vocals, adding MC Luis Mill for live work. This group comes with a background of considerable musical skill and experience and brings this all to bear with their latest single Taku Aroha.
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Loveta - Single Review: Drive
09 Sep 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Christchurch pop artist Loveta’s new single Drive finds the starlet “dreaming wide awake” of escaping her daily life into exciting new experiences. Polished to perfection and fizzing with dance-pop energy, the track is as radio-ready as anything currently spinning on commercial airwaves.
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DateMonthYear - Single Review: Slipping Through My Hands with Black Velvet Butterfly
08 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The first thing which struck me about this single, even before I listened to it, is that the artwork is such a strange shape, but given that many of these are only released digitally these days there is no actual reason they need to be square at all, and I really like it! What we have here is the most recent collaboration from Trevor Faville of DateMonthYear who this time is working with fellow multi-instrumentalist James Castady-Kristament of Black Velvet Butterfly.
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Electric Tapestry - EP Review: The Origins EP
08 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Any group who say they are inspired by bands as diverse as The Beach Boys, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, King Crimson, Genesis, Van Halen, Radiohead, Crowded House, The Chills and Straitjacket Fits are going to be interesting to say the least, and with three guitarists in the line-up, they are going to have a distinctive sound. With this release, Electric Tapestry say they aim to mix the atmospherics of post rock with the immediacy and sensibilities of pop, and while I am not 100% sure if they have achieved this, they are certainly doing something different.
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Tablefox - Single Review: Give It All
08 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I thoroughly enjoyed the last Tablefox album, Battles, while I was also fortunate enough to recently catch them supporting Capital Theatre so was looking forward to their new single. Musically they are based in alt rock, but that covers a multitude of sins, and they are also heavily influenced by the sound of some Eighties bands such as Simple Minds, and that really comes through here.
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Greta O'Leary - Single Review: Body, Now
08 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been quite a while since Greta O'Leary released her debut single, Outnumbered, but now she is back with the follow-up which is a precursor for an EP which is hopefully not too far in the distant future. What we have here is a solid case of alt-folk/dream pop which is full of passion, pain, angst and so much more.
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Black Sands - Album Review: Black Sands
08 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Black Sands are a real rarity in that they are a totally instrumental act, and while they bring in plenty of progressive tendencies, they are always first and foremost a metal band. The band started life as a duo of Cameron Owens (guitars) and James Trimmer (drums), with Ruaidri Keens (guitars) joining later and it was only when they went into the studio with producer/engineer Matt Hammond who then offered his services on 5-string bass that they ended up as a quartet.
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Danica Bryant - Gig Review: Danica Bryant @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 7/09/2022
07 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back into central Auckland on a school night, but it was for a good reason as Danica Bryant was in town and as I had yet to see her perform but had heard some of her releases, I just had to make the effort. Before Danica started, we had Katie—Lee, (they/them), a young singer songwriter who was new to me.
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Serpent Dream - EP Review: Deadlock
07 Sep 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
You could be forgiven for anticipating a heavy metal with a cover and title like this. A glowing photogram of an Australian mental health institution key hints at themes of incarceration and of security or danger.
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felix danilo. - Album Review: The Territories West
07 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The latest album by Felix Danilo finds him exploring different musical textures where the main (and often only) instrument is a multi-layered guitar full of reverb. Although the album is mostly instrumental, he is joined by singer Kayla McGee one song, and by his SkeletonCrew bandmate Nicole Obren on two others.
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Goodwill - EP Review: Incontrol
07 Sep 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Otautahi musician Goodwill released his debut EP Incontrol on the 19th of August. The solo project of musician Will McGillivray, formerly of successful Kiwi band nomad, Incontrol is the result of six years of work in Will’s home studio in Christchurch.
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Saint Lane - EP Review: I Thought My Name Was Cursed
07 Sep 2022 // A review by Nicholas Clark
Saint Lane’s newest EP begins with a highly predictable chord progression borrowed from The Righteous Brothers’ Unchained Melody and exploited in such songs as The Air That I Breathe by the Hollies, I Know It's Over by The Smiths, Magic City by Gorillaz, Underwear by Pulp and perhaps most famously in Radiohead’s Creep. More modern listeners might recognize the chord sequence from The Steven Universe opening theme or perhaps Akon’s rearrangement of Bobby Vinton’s Mr Lonely.
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Lando - EP Review: Lost at Sea
07 Sep 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Lando is a 4-piece Alternative Rock band from Auckland's North Shore. They self-produce, mix and record their music.
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Personal Igloo - Single Review: Old Me
06 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Personal Igloo is the solo project of Auckland based song writer/producer, Hamish Nixon, which brings together soul and pop with some raspy vocals and a love for bands such as Kings of Leon. Old Me is the first track from his forthcoming second EP, which will be out in the next month or so and is a very clean representation of modern pop with some look backs to Eighties-style soul.
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Medusa Glare - Single Review: Something's Got to Give
06 Sep 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
With two EP’s and a single already under their belt since forming in 2017, Waikato three piece, Medusa Glare know a thing or two about catchy hooks, great rhythms and crunchy hard rock riffs. Something’s Got to Give is their latest single, and they’ve hit the nail on the head again with their signature sound that fans have come to know and love.
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Young Moon - EP Review: Paraverbal Orchids
06 Sep 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
There is this Japanese art form called Kintsugi – Golden Joinery – which is a method of mending cracks in broken pottery with gold. The idea is that the broken pieces are part of the object’s history, so are something to remember rather than something to hide.
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Marlon Williams - Album Review: My Boy
06 Sep 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Shit, Marlon’s gone poppy. Not just My Boy.
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Coridian - Gig Review: Coridian @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 03/09/2022
06 Sep 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Let’s not dwell on the obvious.Lockdowns were not nice, we all missed live music, we’re all glad scanning QR codes in every doorway aren’t a thing anymore.
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Ripship - Single Review: Ripship Is Online
05 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across these guys a few months back when I saw them open for Daniel Armstrong & The Monsoons and I was immediately impressed by their approach which was both effective and infectious, so I was pleased when this single recently came my way. They are a duo comprising Callum Lincoln (guitar, vocals, loops) and Eva-Rae McLean (drums, vocals), and they mix together live loops, crunchy guitar and live drums to create something which would be what Ozric Tentacles would be doing if they were more into space rock.
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One Man Bannister - Album Review: The Saddest Noise
05 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
One Man Bannister is the name used by Hamilton-based Matthew Banister when he is not performing in one of his bands such as Sneaky Feelings or The Changing Same, and this is his latest album. It is somewhat unusual in that for the 16 songs he took poems written by Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) and then put them to music.
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Anthea de Milo - Single/Video Review: Mama Got It Bad
05 Sep 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Lyttelton based soulful songwriter Anthea de Milo (Anthea Struthers of Saint Satori, Runabout Sue & The Harbour Union) has just released her outlandish (in the best possible way) debut single accompanied by an eccentric music video full of originality and colour. A combination of song and visuals that invade your senses with delightful quirkiness.
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The Jordan Luck Band - Gig Review: The Jordan Luck Band & Ekko Park @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 3/09/2022
03 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, it was back to The Tuning Fork for another fun night of great rock music. I knew Midnight Oil were playing next door so got here early, and not only managed to get a free parking space, but the lighting guys made sure I had a great place to be able to review from and even provided me with power and my own lighting.
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Jason Parker - Single Review - How To Be Lonely
03 Sep 2022 // A review by IShadowcasterI
Jason Parker has been described as a "Popstar in the making", and it is easy to see why when listening to his music. From the catchy, upbeat sound of This Is My Year or the slow, yet powerful delivery of You Rescued Me, Jason shows so much promise, and the single from his upcoming EP of the same name is here to show you just that.
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Goldsmith Baynes - Album Review: E Rere Ra
01 Sep 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this year I was fortunate to be asked to review To Ihu, one of the four singles to be made available from this album so far, and I was just blown away by what I was hearing. Allana Goldsmith is a classic jazz songstress with warm and embracing vocals while Mark Baynes is a compassionate and empathetic accompanist on the piano, and together they create the bedrock of a very special experience indeed.
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Dolphin Friendly - Single/Video Review: Radical Desire
01 Sep 2022 // A review by taffynz
And BOOM! Christchurch rock band Dolphin Friendly's new release Radical Desire is right up my street.
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Ema I'u - Single Review: Midnight Mistress
01 Sep 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
I’m going to speculate that most music scenes in cities around the world have someone like Ema I’u (AKA Ema Barton.) However I’d wager that all these other cities are in envy of our own Tamaki Makaurau and its “open mic queen”, whose remarkable talents are no secret to those who have traversed the various haunts around the city which generously let artists cut their teeth.
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Seaside Sloths - Album Review: Claws
31 Aug 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Seaside Sloths are a 7-piece, genre-defying outfit, here to remind everyone to slow down. Hailing from the jungle and now residing on luscious shorelines of the Kapiti Coast.
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Munro - Album Review: The Book Of Isaac
31 Aug 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Rapper/producer Munro makes all his songs in a humble caravan studio located in Matakana.On his new album, The Book Of Isaac, he explores different soundscapes that range from acoustic, east-coast jazz influenced hip-hop and others all influenced by the hip-hop sounds of the last 30 years.
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The RVMES - Single Review: What's Troublin' You
31 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It seems to have been ages since I last heard from The RVMES, and I can see from looking through my records that it is more than a year since I last saw them play, and also more than a year since I reviewed their excellent album, Lifetime. Now they are back with the first single from their next album, Simple Things which will be out in a few months’ time.
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Impostor Syndrome - Single Review: Locksmith
31 Aug 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
Across their body of work, Imposter Syndrome have been known for their blurring of the lines between sub-genres and laying waste to the traditional ideas of song structure. Well, that’s what they’re known for to me at least.
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Citris iNK - Single Review: Knowing You're Mine
30 Aug 2022 // A review by taffynz
This release is the debut single for Kristin and Nick, two highly experienced and focused musicians based out of the City of Sails. Titled Knowing You're Mine, it's an homage to their influences of old school R&B, blended with the neo-soul of today, and it could be described as smooth and professional, and ready for radio.
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Fur Patrol - Gig Review: Fur Patrol @ San Fran, Wellington - 27/08/2022
29 Aug 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
I finally arrived at San Fran just on 8pm, a little grumpy after spending 30+ minutes driving around trying to find a park in Wellington city, where, like many other cities around New Zealand, the councils have decided to eliminate as many parking spaces as possible with bollards, flower pots, bus stops, loading zones, road works, or just by erecting scaffolding barriers for no apparent reason!! The venue was wall-to-wall full, and I marveled that all these people had managed to find parking spaces also.
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Silcrow - Gig Review: Silcrow @ The Thirsty Dog, Auckland - 27/08/2022
28 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
After three gigs last weekend it seemed a little weird to be doing just one this, but that’s what happens sometimes. I had been planning to come to this gig to see support act Venom Dolls, as I had no idea who Silcrow were, so it was something of a surprise when Lorenzo Hazlewood responded to my message and let me know that Silcrow is the new name for Close To The Bone.
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VÏKÆ - EP Review: Love Games
25 Aug 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Veronika Bell, known to music fans as Vikae, has been composing and producing music for a good few years, and is gaining some crossover traction between the dance and pop worlds. While she writes many of her tunes on a piano, and can perform them beautifully with piano and her impressive voice, it is the dance-styled pop versions of her tune which have been garnering her acclaim.
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Pieces Of Molly - Single Review: I Don't Wanna
25 Aug 2022 // A review by [email protected]
Pieces of Molly have been busy beavers, racking up a slew of international and major national support slots to go with their commercial radio play, EPs and single releases. I Don’t Wanna is their latest single, and you can hear influences ranging from Aerosmith to Red Fang, while Jet and The D4 also come to mind.
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Electric Temples - Single Review: I Want The World
25 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the debut single from Christchurch-based rock group Electric Temples, and the thing which impresses me most right from the off is the use of space. When a band starts, it is easy to throw the kitchen sink into a recording instead of understanding that often less is more, yet here we are provided with music in waves so there is plenty of contrast.
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Coridian - Single Review: Rakshasa
22 Aug 2022 // A review by bensargent00
Auckland-based 4-piece Coridian return in full force with their second single Rakshasa off their much anticipated upcoming album HAVA, which is due early next year. A winter storm of progression and melancholy proving once again that one of the fastest rising Kiwi Rock acts can still push the boundaries of their sound whilst still dialling in plenty of that early 2000's nostalgia.
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Matt Joe Gow - Gig Review: Matt Joe Gow @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 21/08/2022
22 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
So, it was off into central Auckland for my third consecutive gig, this time to Wine Cellar to see country musician Matt Joe Gow on the final date of his NZ tour, where every gig had sold out. Given how difficult the market is at present, which has been some vindication for Matt, and it was no surprise he was happy with how things had gone.
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Haze Lane - Single/Video Review: Natural Feeling
22 Aug 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
Matching the songs title very aptly South Auckland indie band Haze Lane has produced Natural Feeling, a very organic song that does indeed deliver a very smooth natural feeling. The ultra-cool ambient sound is reminiscent to the early roots sound of Six60 and L.
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Come Together: David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust @ Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, Auckland - 20/08/2022
21 Aug 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Here we are, back in 1972, the year when if you hadn’t heard of David Bowie before, then wham!... an indelible stamp of wonder and amazement and disbelief is delivered to your consciousness for the next 50 years if not forever.
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21 Aug 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Here we are, back in 1972, the year when if you hadn’t heard of David Bowie before, then wham!... an indelible stamp of wonder and amazement and disbelief is delivered to your consciousness for the next 50 years if not forever.
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Fur Patrol - Gig Review: Fur Patrol @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 20/08/2022
20 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This was the first time I had heard anything from support act Wellington-based Soft Plastics, who comprise Sophie Scott-Maunder (vocals/bass), Jonathan Shirley (guitar) and Laura Robinson (drums), but I had heard good things and right from the off I could see I was not going to be disappointed. They started with Day Job, and right from the distorted jangly guitar chord opening, the audience responded and made their way from the bar to the front.
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Troy Kingi - Gig Review: Troy Kingi @ Auckland Town Hall - 19/08/2022
20 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
At the Auckland Folk Festival last year, Tory Kingi and Delaney Davidson premiered material from the forthcoming Black Sea Golden Ladder album, which they had written together when Troy had the Matairangi Mahi Toi Artist Residency in Wellington. Looking around the full marquee, at that time no-one knew we would be going back into extended lockdown, or the impact it would have on the forthcoming tour.
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Ella Minehan - Single Review: First Light
19 Aug 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based emerging female singer / songwriter Ella Minehan has just dropped her third single First Light. A smooth RnB sounding track which has been described as an upbeat, flirty track about taking chances with relationships.
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The Infinity Chamber - Single/Video Review: Nothing
18 Aug 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
The Infinity Chamber is the brain child of musician, Dylan Paul Ware, a Kiwi currently based in Turkey. His blend of alt-rock, dark indie-folk jams is uniquely his own with some solid influential sounds thrown in for good measure.
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Adam Hattaway & The Haunters - Single Review: Salt
18 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Only nine months since their last album, and Adam and the band are back with the first single from the next, Bug Eyes, which is due out in November. Salt clearly shows that here we have a band who have paid their dues by working the circuit since they released their debut in 2018 and soon, they will be back with their fifth – the work ethic puts many other bands to shame.
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Taylor Roche - Single Review: day&night
18 Aug 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based Pop/RnB artist and TikTok personality Taylor Roche has just dropped his latest catchy offering day&night. Described as "rebellious 80's synth pop" this is an upbeat track detailing a broken relationship hanging by a thread.
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Danica Bryant - EP Review: Ego Death
18 Aug 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Hawkes Bay songstress Danica Bryant is back with her sophomore EP Ego Death, released to the world on August 19th. Following on from her 2020 debut EP Cider, Bryant has continued to enjoy success with a string of singles, including sugary pop tune Heart Eyes and head-banging Ready To Bite.
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Big Scout - Album Review: Council Sport
18 Aug 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
It’s finally here. The first Long Player from Blenheim noisy buggers Big Scout.
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Goldsmith Baynes - Single/Video Review: Hei Kawe i a Au
17 Aug 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Allana Goldsmith and Mark Baynes have worked together for a decade and form the creative heart of Goldsmith Baynes. They both have extensive experience in the international and local worlds of Jazz and have brought considerable skills and knowledge to this single Hei Kawe i a Au which is from their upcoming debut album E Rere Ra.
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Banks Arcade - Gig Review: Banks Arcade @ Tuning Fork, Auckland - 13/08/2022
17 Aug 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
In you are a fan of the newer generation of Metal or Heavy Music. You really missed out.
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Brookes & Johnstone - Album Review: When Summer Calls, Break Down the Walls
16 Aug 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Brookes & Johnstone sound like a pharmaceutical company, or a high street tailor with a side in patent leather shoes. But they are not.
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Sylvee - Single Review: Slow
14 Aug 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Sylvee’s latest single Slow is an impassioned love song dedicated to supporting someone beloved through struggles with their mental health. Featuring the artist’s signature soft, introspective vocals and honeyed melodies, it’s a dreamy release soothing listeners in the toughest of times.
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Scapegoat - Album Review: Reality and the Hanging Tree
12 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Rene Black can often be found out and about on the Auckland scene, either playing in the premier NZ Sabbath tribute band After Forever, or just supporting other bands and enjoying the vibe. We regularly bump into each other at our favourite dive, Ding Dong Lounge, but whereas that is a relatively new place for me, Rene has been on the circuit for years as he was also drummer and founding member of both His Masters Voice and {Cripple Mr.
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CAITLIN - EP Review: States
12 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut EP from young Christchurch-based indie-pop musician Caitlin (Caitlin Bradley) who is currently studying at Ara Music Arts in the city. She took the songs to Ryan Chin (Fisherman), and together with Will McGillivray (Goodwill), Thomas Isbister, and Shaun Malloch they worked to capture her innocent vocals and songs in a manner which brings together lots of different styles.
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The BackChat - Double Single Review: Effortless and Conspirator
11 Aug 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Auckland-based four piece The BackChat have created two new singles which are releasing this August 12th. Breaking through the loneliness of winter months, Effortless gives us an aural experience for closed doors.
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Corduroy. - Single Review: Ozone
11 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Ozone is the latest single from Wellington-based band Corduroy., and is taken from their forthcoming EP, Halftime Oranges.
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Mim Jensen - Single Review: Germaphobe
11 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the debut single from Otautahi artist Mim Jensen, and a load of fun it is too. It commences with jangly guitar and Mim’s vocals, and soon we are taken into commercial indie rock which has definite nods back to the likes of Fur Patrol.
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Moone - Single Review: I Am Who I Am
10 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are some people who come into this world and put the rest of us to shame as to what they achieve, and undoubtedly one of those was Eva McGauley, who at the age of 15 was diagnosed with terminal cancer, to which she succumbed a little more than 3 years later. Eva was involved with the Wellington Rape Crisis Organisation, was an intern with the Green Party, ran her own charity 'Eva's Wish' raising more than $70,000 to help sexual abused survivors, was involved in the '200 Women Who will change the way you see the world' book and exhibition and was nominated for Youth Wellingtonian of the year award, among others.
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Wallace - Album Review: And Other Colours
09 Aug 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Having spent her past few years across the ditch, Wallace now returns to her hometown in Wellington just in time for the release of her delightful new album, And Other Colours. It’s an exciting future soul affair, bathed in bright, simple lyricism and the voice of a charismatic rising star.
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Nick Burson Band - Single Review: Should Have Let You Know
08 Aug 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Nick Burson spent a decade cutting his teeth on the covers scene of Christchurch city. The lockdown of 2020 allowed him to finally focus on releasing his own music to the world.
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Jodi Vaughan - Album Review: For The Love of Country
05 Aug 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
The moment Tennessee Dancing strikes up, we know we are in a deep country space. Somewhere just out of Nashville, maybe a famous farm, maybe an even more famous figure, but actually, no, fooled you, we’re in the country alright, but close to home, in our very own Waikato country.
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05 Aug 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
The moment Tennessee Dancing strikes up, we know we are in a deep country space. Somewhere just out of Nashville, maybe a famous farm, maybe an even more famous figure, but actually, no, fooled you, we’re in the country alright, but close to home, in our very own Waikato country.
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All I Seek - Single Review: Envy
05 Aug 2022 // A review by River Tucker
More than just a progressive Metal band, All I Seek have coalesced many of the best Alt Metal styles around, including at times Melodic Death (with a slight Djent edge) into their rip-roaring third single, Envy.This massive four-minute track fills a gap in New Zealand’s current progressive Metal scene and the juxtaposition of the songs uplifting message, delivered during mid-winter, makes it a very well timed release.
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Oliver Birch - Album Review: Burning Daylight
05 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the debut album from Auckland musician, Oliver Birch, although older versions of many of the songs contained within have already been made available as singles. When the album started with the lengthy keyboard chords and feedback intro I thought it would fall into krautrock, but instead it quickly changed into a psychedelic experimental art rock number with emotionally charged vocals and an outright refusal to conform to any expectations.
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n1ghtmar3cat - Album Review: Rat Race
05 Aug 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
n1ghtmar3cat is Dave Johnston’s alter ego and solo project, when he’s not busy drumming for Villainy or co-DJing as Delivery Boyz. Under this moniker, Dave has been crafting releases and remixing for nearly four years, and has returned again with his brand new, sophomore album Rat Race.
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Flaxxies - EP Review: Beach Rudes
04 Aug 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Flaxxies release a four track EP, that heralds Spring with its’ playfulness and optimism. The band are a five piece who blend a number of influences: most obviously surf rock and reggae.
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Black Velvet Butterfly - Album Review: Black Velvet Butterfly
03 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Black Velvet Butterfly are a one-man band from Auckland featuring James Castady-Kristament. I was intrigued to be sent this as when I looked on their Bandcamp page it said, “It may just well be the coolest thing you’ve heard in the Goth scene since Type O Negative.
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Bill Angus and the Mighty Ways - Album Review: All Night Before the World Began
01 Aug 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Bill had a musical career in England before deciding to do something different, and returned to his roots when he started working in New Zealand. This is his third album.
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Blindspott - Gig Review: Blindspott @ The Trusts Arena, Auckland - 29/07/2022
31 Jul 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Still feels like a bit of a treat, walking into a large music venue. Having been through so many lockdowns and cancellations over the past couple of years, I felt both right at home yet also like I haven’t set foot at a big gig in a while.
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Antagonist A.D. - Gig Review: Antagonist A.D. @ Galatos, Auckland - 30/07/2022
31 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Once more into the breach dear friends, as I made my way into the city for the third night in a row. I knew this was going to be the most dramatic gig of the week and was one I had been looking forward to for months.
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Reb Fountain - Gig Review: Reb Fountain @ Town Hall, Auckland - 29/07/2022
30 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back into central Auckland for the second consecutive evening, this time to see an artist for whom I have great admiration for the first time, and whose latest album, Iris, was rightfully in my Top Ten of 2021. Until last month it had been years since I had been in Auckland Town Hall for a gig, but here I was again, this time for one of the series of Auckland Elemental events, and I could see lighting gantries across much of the venue so knew we were in for quite some night.
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Capital Theatre - Gig Review: Capital Theatre @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 28/07/2022
28 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Down to the Tuning Fork on a school night, whatever next?! Mind you, it was for a special occasion as Capital Theatre were back in town and it has been way too long since I last saw them play (thanks Covid).
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Banks Arcade - Album Review: Future Lovers
28 Jul 2022 // A review by Shade
For the last 23 years I've been completely immersed in New Zealand music, soaked through to my inner core. I've been living it, breathing it and drinking it in.
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Infinity Ritual - Infinity Ritual - EP Review: Infinity Ritual
28 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut EP from New Plymouth trio Adam Colless (guitars, vocals), Jason Karam (bass, vocals, mellotron) and Mark Thomas (drums and percussion). The four songs, 23 minutes in length, show a band who are bringing together groove metal with stoner, displaying plenty of bottom end with rich distortion.
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Sea Mouse - EP Review: Evil Heart
27 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There is a time in many music lover’s lives when they finally fall into the caress of the blues. Everyone has their own genre they prefer, but the best blues is that which really calls to the listener on an emotional level, and for me that means two very different strands, and my favourite depends on what I am feeling like on any particular day.
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Brian Baker - EP Review: Open Up Your Heart
27 Jul 2022 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
Brian Baker is an established Kiwi songwriter whose career spans 40 years and is still going strong. His latest release is a 5-track EP entitled Open Up Your Heart and it brilliantly showcases Brian's musical experience and the journey that his art has taken him on.
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Krispy & The Pooch - EP Review: The Reckless Eclectic: Part One
25 Jul 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Waiheke’s electro-soul duo Krispy & the Pooch are back. And I don’t just mean back with brand new music, the lads relocated from Berlin back to little ol’ Aotearoa, and this new EP The Reckless Eclectic: Part One is the first produced and recorded on home soil.
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Reuben Hudson - Single Review: Gasman
24 Jul 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
I’m not gonna muck around with the preamble here, instead a question… Has Reuben Hudson written the most catchy chorus of the year? I’d wager it.
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Velvet Arrow - Single Review: Dark Was The Night ...Song For Blind Willie Johnson
24 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I started work on my first book some eight years ago, I decided I was not going to listen to anything I was supposed to be reviewing during this period, and instead threw myself into the world of pre-war acoustic blues and Sixties electric blues. I made some wonderful discoveries during this time, not least of which were the famous blind blues musicians such as Blind Lemon Jefferson, Blind Willie McTell, and of course Blind Willie Johnson.
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Gig Review: By The Power of Rock @ The Thirsty, Auckland - 22/07/2022
23 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Just a week after being at The Thirsty for Swamp Song XII, I was back for By The Power of Rock featuring three bands, two of which were new to me. First up were Living State, a band whose single One Sided I put in my Top 10 last year, but I had only seen them play live once before so was looking forward to this.
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23 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Just a week after being at The Thirsty for Swamp Song XII, I was back for By The Power of Rock featuring three bands, two of which were new to me. First up were Living State, a band whose single One Sided I put in my Top 10 last year, but I had only seen them play live once before so was looking forward to this.
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Silent Torture - Single Review: Omnipotent Reign
21 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Auckland death metal outfit Silent Torture have been playing some well-received gigs recently, and now here they are back with their first new material since 2018’s Phallic Self Mastication EP. Formed in 2015, Ross Curtain (drums), Aidan McGorry (guitars) and Liam Hand (vocals) have been there since the beginning while bassist Elijah Pinho joined back in 2017, and it is only guitarist Daryl Hodgetts who did not play on that last release.
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Mecuzine - Album Review: Locksmith Thief
21 Jul 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Now that’s a great way to open an album. Bruised and Broken is the first track of Mecuzine’s new album Locksmith Thief, and my god what an epic track to open their new record.
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Sonic Space Lab - Album Review: Cycles
20 Jul 2022 // A review by JamieDenton
Sonic Space Lab is the musical pseudonym of Dunedin-based, Venezuelan composer and sound engineer Luis Rodriguez, who some may know from his guitar work in Dunedin’s Tomahawk Radio. Having spent more than 20 years writing music for television, film, and advertising and collaborating with countless musicians in both musician and producer roles, Luiz Rodriguez turned his hand to Sonic Space Lab (also the name of his studio) in the mid-late 2010’s.
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The Knids - Album Review: Rescue Me
19 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The Knids are back with their second album, which has one of the coolest covers ever! I was a big fan of their debut, One Small Step for Man, One Giant Leap for Manknid, and I am glad to report that this one continues exactly where that one left off.
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Gerry Paul - Single Review: The Fairy Child
19 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Gerry Paul surely needs no introduction, as not only he is an established musician who has shared his wares in more than 40 countries around the world (as well as more than 40 American states), a festival organiser and award-winning children’s author, but he is also incredibly well-known within the folk community. Most recently he and his colleagues in T-Bone well-deservedly made it to #2 in the NZ album charts with the excellent Good ‘n’ Greasy, and he has called on those friends to join him again in this new single.
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Heavy Chest - Heavy Chest x BENEE - Single Review: Sunday926
19 Jul 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
I must say, I am thoroughly enjoying the new offering from Heavy Chest; a dreamy collab with BENEE, how exciting is that!? And a very new and different sound altogether for this band, led by the talented Andre Smith.
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Coridian - Gig Review: Coridian @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 15/07/2022
18 Jul 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
Coridian, who I have had the pleasure of sharing the stage with in my band’s most recent NZ gig, have put on a gig titled ‘Power to Rock’. But we do not get the power part straight away, we build up to it.
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Gig Review: Swamp Song XII @ Thirsty Dog, Auckland - 15/07/2022
15 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Originally, I was not supposed to be in Auckland this weekend, which is why tonight I was not at Ding Dong watching the mighty Coridian, but as that gig was being covered by another writer from MNNZ I instead headed out to The Thirsty for another of Sean’s soirées. The Swamp Song events pride themselves on bringing together some of the most metallic and interesting bands around, and tonight was no exception with another four-band bill.
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15 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Originally, I was not supposed to be in Auckland this weekend, which is why tonight I was not at Ding Dong watching the mighty Coridian, but as that gig was being covered by another writer from MNNZ I instead headed out to The Thirsty for another of Sean’s soirées. The Swamp Song events pride themselves on bringing together some of the most metallic and interesting bands around, and tonight was no exception with another four-band bill.
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The Black Seeds - Album Review: Love & Fire
15 Jul 2022 // A review by Chris Chick
What a privilege it is to review a legendary band that is The Black Seeds. The band has been entertaining and soothing the ears of many a listener now since 1998.
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Voodoo Bloo - Album Review: The Blessed Ghost
15 Jul 2022 // A review by Investigator
Wellington Rockers Voodoo Bloo have released their second album The Blessed Ghost. This sophomore album follows on from the 2020 debut Jacobus.
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Gig Review: Dee and the Sweet Somethings @ Meow, Wellington - 13/07/2022
14 Jul 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
The crowd is electric at Wellington’s Meow this Wednesday evening, now the home of Dee and the Sweet Somethings, Walker and Clara van Wel for one marvellous night. Looking out into the sea of people reveals a particularly eclectic bunch, of all ages, genders and fashion styles - it’s all slicked back hair, bright scarves, leather boots, full suits and colourful beanies, a visual display of how many diverse people adore tonight’s acts.
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14 Jul 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
The crowd is electric at Wellington’s Meow this Wednesday evening, now the home of Dee and the Sweet Somethings, Walker and Clara van Wel for one marvellous night. Looking out into the sea of people reveals a particularly eclectic bunch, of all ages, genders and fashion styles - it’s all slicked back hair, bright scarves, leather boots, full suits and colourful beanies, a visual display of how many diverse people adore tonight’s acts.
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Ghost Merchants - Single Review: Careless Ones
14 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
While the band name may be new, and Careless Ones is their debut single, all three of the guys involved in Ghost Merchants are no strangers to success in the NZ rock market, as here we have a combination of drummer Nick Douch (Ekko Park) and multi-instrumentalists JP Carroll (Swerve City, Arrays) and Adrian Drew (Investigator). Both Adrian and JP are singers as well of course, but here Adrian takes the lead while JP is right behind with double-tracked vocals while we get the strong riffs we expect from JP, combined with the more commercial sound of Investigator with Nick always driving them forward.
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Arrays - Album Review: Patience Way
14 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
JP Carroll (Swerve City, ex-Armed in Advance) is back with his latest album as Arrays, yet again proving what a talent he is as Patience Way takes us on a journey through different styles of melodic rock, often with buzzsaw guitars, and always with hooks and a commercial understanding missing from many other releases. Many of the songs on this could happily find their way onto radio, as even when he is doing his best Devin Townsend impression the vocals and licks keep us tuned into what he is doing.
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Ben Woods - Album Review: Dispeller
14 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Firstly, this is an album which must be played on headphones as otherwise much of it will be lost, and secondly here we have music which is going to challenge a lot of what people expect from that term. However, of the many words used to describe my musical tastes (my children say it is weird, while I would rather use the term broad minded), conservative is not one of them and for me this is a delight.
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Masslands - EP Review: It Doesn't Matter Anymore
14 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last month I reviewed the single Forget What You Heard from these guys, and now I have the four-track EP from which it was taken. Masslands started as a project between Jacob Tait of Orphic Décor (who I also recall reviewing last year) and Mason Blair of Highway Goth, but as they started to build up steam, they were joined by the rhythm section of Orian Green and Ben Liley and this is their debut EP.
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Wills & Wills - Album Review: Ain't Seen The Likes of You Before
13 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This trio is formed around singer/songwriters and father and son team Shayn (guitar, harmonica, viola, vocals) and Zephyr Wills (guitar, bass, vocal) along with Freddy Limbert (drums, vocals). Shayn is a well-established singer-songwriter and blues musician who has performed in almost every town in the North Island, as well as supporting artists ranging from Albert King to Junior Wells.
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Leigh Franklin - Single Review: So My Love
13 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have a song which every parent can totally relate to, as it is Leigh’s song to her 4-month-old son, although it took 4 years to come up with the final version. She sings about the changes taking place and how much she loves him, and it reminded me of sitting just looking at one of my daughters when she was about that age thinking my heart would break and I would do anything for her.
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Jenny Mitchell - Album Review: Tug of War
12 Jul 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Jenny Mitchell releases her third album on July 22nd. It’s Tug of War, a collection of sweet songs which see Jenny wear her heart on her sleeve and talk about all the pushes and pulls of a still young life where “things don’t always work out the way they do in your mind”.
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DateMonthYear - Single Review: Thots and Prayers w/ Golden Plates
10 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Golden Plates from San Diego, California and DateMonthYear from Hamilton, New Zealand have teamed up for a new single song release called Thots and Prayers. DateMonthYear’s Trevor Faville wrote an instrumental track to which Golden Plates’ Elder Brycen added the vocals and lyrics.
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Gig Review: Crushfest @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 09/07/2022
09 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to The Tuning Fork for a night with six acts, all of whom had just 20 minutes to make an impact. This was going to be a hard one for bands, crew, Ginny and I, but hopefully the fans would have a great time for a great price.
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09 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back down to The Tuning Fork for a night with six acts, all of whom had just 20 minutes to make an impact. This was going to be a hard one for bands, crew, Ginny and I, but hopefully the fans would have a great time for a great price.
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Forty Bucks Till Tuesday - Gig Review: Laid to Rest @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 08/07/2022
08 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight’s show was called “Laid To Rest” as it was the last gig for the Yakushima Assassin Clan Metal band from the distinguished ghetto streets and suburbs of West & South Auckland (Forty Bucks Till Tuesday) with singer George Shinobi Mishinoku, who has decided to leave the scene for now. Opening act were Moshpitt, and this was the first time I had seen them since James Trimmer (Black Sands) had joined.
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NEEKOH - Single Review: Breathe
08 Jul 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
NEEKOH is a Finland based fashionista, interior designer and former Pop Idol finalist. He took a break from celebrity status in Finland, traveling the world and has found himself in New Zealand.
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Moofish - Single/Video Review: Sparrow
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
A short while back I reviewed Ash Tree Lament by MOoFiSh, and the first thing I said was that I had no idea how on earth I was going to be able to describe it, and now I have their latest single I am wondering why on earth I volunteered as I have exactly the same problem! There is just so much going on in this arrangement, from complex layers to simplicity, that one really does not know where to start.
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Daniel Ashcroft - Album Review: Caramel Honey II: Ribbed For Her Pleasure!
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Daniel Ashcroft is a multi-instrumentalist who played in metal bands and released solo work during his mid-20’s, but stopped about six years ago, with no intention of creating any more music. These songs started off as tunes he would play with his acoustic, sitting on the floor next to his daughter when she was a baby.
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CHOEY G - Album Review: Time?
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been some 15 years since CHOEY G has been in a studio, and on this album, he provided all the lead vocals and guitars. Working with producer Reagan McKinnon at The Porch Recording led to Reagan playing drums, providing backing vocals plus all other instruments as well as polishing the result and assisting in the creative direction.
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Finger Tight - Single/Video Review: I Hear It Rains In Seattle
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
The video accompanying this song probably tells you all you need to know about the five guys from West Auckland, as interspersed with playing in the studio is them going to a fancy-dress party, and there is a real sense of humour throughout. Red is a vibrant frontman, even though he does leave the party on his own (or does he?
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Bird Machine - Single Review: Our Kind
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second single from Kiwi/Aussie duo Bird Machine, and if the debut is anything like this then I can see I need to check it out. Jenna and Luke Grbin come from different musical backgrounds, one from alternative and the other from pop, and here they combine those influences to meet somewhere in the middle.
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No Man's Land - Single Review: It's All Over
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from No Man’s Land, which is quite different indeed to the last one of theirs I reviewed, West Coast. That was heavily based on the piano, but here the keyboards are much far more restrained, with held-down organ chords as there is a far greater emphasis on vocals, harmonies and guitars.
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Big Scout - Single Review: How Lovely
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Self-proclaimed “Hillbillies in Hiluxes” Big Scout from Blenheim (Jim Tannock, Mathew Hellriegel and Gregg Slatter) are an original 3-piece band full of loud fast paced energy that may (or may not) be post punk (not to be pigeonholed). The band's third single off their up-and-coming debut album Council Sport is How Lovely, an assault on your senses in the best way.
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Matt Joe Gow - Single Review: 'Til My Whole Heart Bursts
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across Matt when I was asked if I could write a release for his tour, and I was fortunate enough to catch him in Auckland playing solo in the middle of last year. It was a great night, and since then I have investigated all three of his albums and am looking forward now to his NZ tour and his fourth.
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Blake - Single Review: You Don't Decide
07 Jul 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Hailing from Queenstown, soulful pop artist Blake’s new single You Don’t Decide is a breath of fresh air amongst today’s highly produced and often overly busy commercial material. Yet another splendid product of Covid lockdowns, it’s a whispered discovery of self-assertion, which reaches to the depths of human experience and compacts its realisations in a beautiful yet clearly comprehensible way.
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Sonic Delusion - Single/Video Review: Fingertips
06 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this year I was fortunate enough to come across the incredible album When Turkeys Fly by Turkey The Bird which meant I was determined to see them when they came to Auckland and had an amazing evening. One member of that trio is André Manella, who has also been touring as Sonic Delusion, and over the last eight years he has played more than 800 shows and released five albums.
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Big Sima - Album Review: Stereotypes of a Polynesian Misunderstood
04 Jul 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Currently one of the most active NZ Hip-Hop artists on the live circuit, The Underground King AKA Big Sima is no stranger to the big stage. During his come-up, he has played support for everyone from Busta Rhymes to Bone Thugs 'n Harmony, Guru (Gangstarr), Mobb Deep and Cypress Hill.
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T-Bone - Gig Review: T-Bone @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 03/07/2022
03 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Down to Tuning Fork for an early start with doors opening at 5:30 and the whole thing expected to be over by 9:30! I was so glad that Al from Hoop sent me the running times in the morning otherwise I would have missed their set altogether as well as possibly missing the beginning of T-Bone!
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Miles Calder - Gig Review: Miles Calder @ Wine Cellar, Auckland - 2/07/2022
03 Jul 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
There’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere tonight in the Wine Cellar. It seems to be lighter along with the mood.
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Y$O - Single Review: So Sexy
03 Jul 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Y$O returns with a new funky and R&B-infused track So Sexy.From the moment the track starts, I can feel that there is a lot of influence from N.
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Ange.Mac + Shaun Garea - EP Review: Ange.Mac + Shaun Garea
03 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
What we have here is the debut collaboration from Ange.Mac and Shaun Garea.
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Pale Flag - Gig Review: Pale Flag @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 01/07/2022
02 Jul 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, I was supposed to be at The Tuning Fork for Ekko Park and Jordan Luck but the dreaded Covid had cast its spell and the gig was cancelled earlier in the week. I did a quick check to see what was on at Dead Witch and discovered there was a four-band bill and knowing three of them I could see it was going to be a good night so decided to head that way.
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Molly Devine - Single Review: Shades of Blue
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Molly Devine’s sweeping waiata Shades of Blue, created in collaboration with guitarist James Bulter, is an emotive piano-led ballad carried by her strong, deep vocal. Like previous release Because I Love You, Shades of Blue takes Devine away from her earlier dance-pop works into experimental territory.
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Ayla Gold - Single Review: Say To Me
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Normally, when I am reviewing singles for MNZ the turnaround time we work to is 7 days and it is not unusual for me to work on far tighter deadlines than that, but Ayla was incredibly well organised with the promotion for her second single, and I have been playing this for the last 3 weeks at least. In that time it has become a real earworm, and I have even found myself singing it as I walk around (not a pleasant experience for anyone in the vicinity, let me assure you).
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DiCE_NZ - Single Review: Feshh + DiCE_NZ - Undointerpolation (Meant 2 Be Remix)
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
DiCE_NZ is back, after no delay! DJ/Producer Dave Ti and friends (Mr ‘House of Downtown’, DJ Christiaan Ercolano, Percussionist Matt Sawyer, & DJ Duncan Funk) have recently created and re-shaped a fresh take on a new tune.
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Ed Waaka - Single Review: E Kura
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It did not take long for me to fall in love with this song, probably the first 30 seconds I guess, as there is something about it which grabs hold the listener, puts them in a safe place, and lets the singer bare their soul. Soul, yes, this is full of it in a musical sense as well as an emotional one, and when I discovered he was singing about the upcoming birth of his first daughter, whether he would be a good father, and the need to reconnect to his Maori heritage it made a great deal of sense.
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Danica Bryant - Single Review: Crush
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the lead single from Danica Bryant’s forthcoming EP, Ego Death, and if this is fully representative, then that is something to look out for. For a young artist she has already had considerable success, mentoring with Bic Runga while also gaining a support slot for Elton John on his ‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road’ tour, and while she has already tasted success on the NZ Hot Singles Chart, I am sure this is going to head the same way.
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Tia Ward - EP Review: Me and Me Too
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the debut EP from Hawkes Bay singer Tia Ward, following on from two singles which were released ahead of time, Under Wraps and Paint Dry, both of which are included here. The first thing which the listener notices are her vocals, which are both understated yet firmly to the fore.
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Dark Divinity - Single Review: Left For Dead
30 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Formed in 2017 by drummer Ian Moir, melodic death metal act Dark Divinity have been through quite a lot in the last five years, as not only have they supported the likes of At The Gates, The Haunted, The Black Dahlia Murder and Psycroptic but have already released an EP, some singles and have of course been running the gamut of line-up changes. The most recent of these has seen the departure of singer Jolene Tempest and the return to a male singer in Jesse Wheeler, with the line-up completed by guitarist/bassist Paul Stewart and guitarist Jiji Aligno.
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Tryonics - Album Review: Fragmented
29 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tryonics is the solo project of Hap Richardson, formerly of My Little Pony, Go Victim and Freezer Child. It is completely a one-man affair as Hap not only provided all the music and vocals but also recorded and mixed it as well.
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Kev Rowland - Book Review: The Progressive Underground Volume 4
28 Jun 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Well, here I find myself in the weird situation of reviewing a series of reviews. What a novel idea!
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28 Jun 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Well, here I find myself in the weird situation of reviewing a series of reviews. What a novel idea!
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Memory Foam - Album Review: Steel Magnolias
28 Jun 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
Did you know that Memory Foam creates a matrix of cells through which air can move? Me neither.
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Anamnesis - Single Review: Coms
26 Jun 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Coms sounds like a clown rubbing wet crocks against a saxophone. After a few seconds it also sounds like somebody close is tracing their finger around a half empty wine glass and somebody far away is buffing a bird cage with an angle grinder.
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Anxiety Club - Single Review: Carousel
24 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Wellington-based Anxiety Club, taken from the forthcoming album Old Dreams, but anyone expecting more of their guitar-led music is going to be in for quite a surprise as there has been a major shift in their sound, caused by circumstance as much as by design. Like many bands unable to perform or tour over the pandemic, they used the downtime to focus on new songs, but that was not their only issue.
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Capital Theatre - Album Review: A Hero's Journey
24 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back in March last year I made my way to the Tuning Fork to catch a three-band bill, one of whom was Capital Theatre. At that point I had not heard any of their material, so was mightily impressed to discover they had recorded a concept album for their debut with Mike Clink (Guns ‘n’ Roses, Megadeth etc) in America, and that night they were playing it in sequence.
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Sam Bartells - Single Review: Good Intentions
23 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last year I saw Sam Bartells at The Tuning Fork with a full band, and then a few weeks ago he was playing acoustically at a tiny venue in Ponsonby with just a keyboard player for support (what an incredible night that was). In some ways his latest single is a combination of those two very different facets, as the central core of his music is always his acoustic and vocals.
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South for Winter - EP Review: Acoustic Sessions
22 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this year I agreed to review a concert of the Nashville-based husband and wife duo of Nick Stone (vocals, guitar) and Dani Cichon (vocals, mandolin), without previously having heard any of their music and it is fair to say I was blown away. I was fortunate enough to see them on two consecutive nights, and the mix of Dani’s pure, clear vocals with Nick’s more classical tones was something to behold.
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Achilles Complex - Single Review: Jack In
20 Jun 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Achilles Complex hail from Hamilton and have been making a name for themselves since 2019, when they came on the scene with their explosive prog rock medley. The four piece, compromising of frontman, Harley Flynn (vocals and guitar), Zak Cole (drums), Reece Gielen (vocals and lead guitar) and Jordan Carpenter (bass) create a stunning blend of intricate sounds, both heavy and melodic.
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Recitals - Single Review: Rock Dove
19 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Recitals are a 7-piece band based in both Te Whanganui-A-Tara (Wellington) and Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) and comprise Xanthe Rook (bass, vocals), Tharushi Bowatte (trumpet), Carla Camilleri (keyboards, vocals), Olivia Wilding (cello), Christian Dimick (guitar, vocals), Josh Finegan (drums), and Sam Curtiss (guitar). Even before playing the first single from their debut album Orbit I (released at the end of August on Flying Nun Records) I was intrigued by the line-up as it is unusual to find both a trumpeter and cellist in the same band, and having now listened to the single I am still intrigued, but now it is because I am wondering what the album is like.
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19 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Recitals are a 7-piece band based in both Te Whanganui-A-Tara (Wellington) and Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) and comprise Xanthe Rook (bass, vocals), Tharushi Bowatte (trumpet), Carla Camilleri (keyboards, vocals), Olivia Wilding (cello), Christian Dimick (guitar, vocals), Josh Finegan (drums), and Sam Curtiss (guitar). Even before playing the first single from their debut album Orbit I (released at the end of August on Flying Nun Records) I was intrigued by the line-up as it is unusual to find both a trumpeter and cellist in the same band, and having now listened to the single I am still intrigued, but now it is because I am wondering what the album is like.
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Matt Joe Gow - Album Review: Break, Rattle and Roll
19 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
After touring and playing numerous festivals in support of Seven Years, Matt returned to the studio in 2018 to record the follow-up, Break, Rattle and Roll. Released to wide acclaim, it went one better than his previous release and was awarded Best Country Album in the 2019 Music Victoria Awards.
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Jenny Mitchell - Gig Review: Jenny Mitchell @ Kumeu Live, Kumeu - 18/06/2022
18 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Over to Kumeu Arts Centre tonight to catch two Country singers, along with ace photographer Steve Bone who I had not worked with since Dragon in February last year due to both Covid and his schedule getting in the way of things. We both got there early enough to catch up with the ladies and listen to the soundchecks beforehand and it was obvious we were on for a good night.
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Arun O'Connor - Album Review: Songs From The Reading Room
17 Jun 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Arun O’Connor is as good as gold when I speak to him in dark and gloomy Invercargill about his new album, his debut album, Songs From The Reading Room, which came out sneakily in late April. You can see my interview with Arun in my interview series, ‘It’s a Wrap with Roger” here, but the dark and gloomy winter afternoon seems appropriate when you play the first song on the album, When the Darkness Comes Around.
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T-Bone - Album Review: Good n Greasy
16 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut album by Wellington-based Kiwi folk Americana act T-Bone, and mighty fine it is too. The quintet comprises Gerry Paul, Aaron Stewart, Richard Klein, Michael Muggeridge, and Cameron 'Dusty' Burnell, and they bring together an acoustic mix of zydeco, old-time, blues, bluegrass, and folk with Americana to create something which is incredibly enjoyable and full of depth.
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Steve Wells - Album Review: Songs For Summer Rain
16 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I heard that Steve Wells (ex-Fur Patrol) was releasing his debut solo album I had no idea what to expect, but I know it wasn’t this! For a musician who made his name as guitarist in a multi-platinum band, there are way more keyboards here than one would expect, and the production makes this album sound huge.
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Hoop - Single Review: The Brightest in the Land
16 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have seen Hoop play twice this year so far (the third will be in a few weeks) and each time I have come away impressed with the depth and breadth of their Americana-inspired folk. This is due in many ways to having two songwriters in the band, both of whom are singers and multi-instrumentalists while they also have an excellent rhythm section and a great fiddler.
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Coast Arcade - Single Review: Tattoo
16 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I don’t know how old these guys are, but given they formed in High School towards the beginning of last year I am guessing not that old, especially as they have been playing mostly all-ages gigs, although they did also open for The Beths in Auckland earlier this year and would have also opened for Clap Clap Riot if the tour hadn’t been cancelled due to Covid. Bella Bavin is the lead singer and lead guitarist, and here she sings about wanting to tattoo a girl on her neck.
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SKRAM - Album Review: Walk Into the Sun
15 Jun 2022 // A review by bensargent00
Floating in a sea of offset guitars and Fender reverbs, SKRAM manage to swim not sink with their debut album Walk Into The Sun. This Wellington 4-piece's 12-track album is drenched in cerveza-popping Summer vibes and pop-rock madness.
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MELLIS - EP Review: Escape
14 Jun 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
There’s been a retro-wave revival simmering around the world, with groups like Drab Majesty, Gunship, Perturbator, plus Kiwi artists PolarisRadio establishing themselves in various electronic and rock circles. Many have performed live to vast audiences and also racking up healthy amounts of plays on streaming platforms.
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Turkey The Bird - Gig Review: Turkey The Bird @ Ministry of Folk, Auckland - 11/06/2022
11 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It was a very wet and windy drive over to The Ministry of Folk, but one I was willing to make as I loved the latest Turkey The Bird album and tonight was the last night of the tour. I made it safely to the old hall, which was very dark and atmospheric which was certainly enhanced by the Northumbrian and Uilleann pipes care of Helen Douglas and Mark Muttley Sanders, otherwise known as The Underdrones.
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Becca Caffyn - Single Review: Stair Kid
09 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut single from Hamilton native Becca Caffyn who discovered Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan when she was 15 and has spent the last four years developing her own songwriting and performing style. This song is all about the vocals, which are double tracked, so playing on headphones is the best way to really appreciate them and they have deliberately been kept and clear and not over polished.
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Gideon Voon - EP Review: EPsode II: Wanderer's Path
09 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Gideon Voon is of course guitarist with the mighty Shepherds Reign, one of the finest metal acts in Aotearoa, so when I saw a post from him on FB earlier this week where he put up a teaser for a new track I was intrigued. What would a solo piece be like from someone who is known for crunching out mighty riffs?
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Stealphish - EP Review: No Road To Shadesmar
09 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been quite a while since we last heard from Stealphish, probably due to a combination of Covid and guitarist Josh Barker busy recording an EP with Café Fistfight, but this time around we have a 3-track EP instead of just a single. He is again joined by his brother Dan who wrote and arranged the drums, while pianist Caitlyn Abbott again makes an appearance on one track.
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Nuggiez - Album Review: Toil In The Time of Monsters
09 Jun 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
In something of a classic Punk tradition, the opening paragraph in the press release for this release begins with some social commentary, and a position statement- establishing Nuggiez’ attitude and intent before mentioning the band or its music, and if ever there is an appropriate introduction to this band, that would be it.Nuggiez are based in Tamaki Makaurau , and have been evolving the material for Toil In The Time of Monsters over a period of quite some time.
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Josie Moon - Album Review: Paint Me How You Need Me
09 Jun 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Independent Wellington artist Josie Moon’s debut album Paint Me How You Need Me is a highly conceptual, artistic alt-pop exploration, questioning identity, and the search to be perfect for others. With a voice full of childlike innocence and yet deepfelt cynicism, Moon establishes herself as an unmissable artist emerging on the scene.
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Lee Mvtthews - ShockOne x Lee Mvtthews - Single Review: Thinkin About
09 Jun 2022 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
If you are entrenched in and or familiar with the world of EDM (specifically Drum n Bass) then Lee Mvtthews will require no introduction, but for those of us that are perhaps not keeping up, here is the group summary in three sentences from a Kiwi perspective: A few years back in 2012, a couple of Auckland blokes named Graham Matthews and Tom Lee were knocking the top off a few beers while shooting the shizness about the music business. They found that they were both into the same stuff, right and decided to have a crack at making a few tunes on the computer.
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Masslands - Single Review: Forget What You Heard
08 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut single from Hawkes Bay quartet Masslands who feature Orian Green (drums), Ben Liley (bass), Mason McNaught-Blair (vocals, guitar) and Jacob Tait (guitar). They describe themselves as Indie-Rock / Post-Punk, but while I understand the first and agree, I don’t necessarily hear the latter, at least not in this number which sits solidly within alt rock to my mind.
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AJSCeleste Music - EP Review: Beautiful Words
06 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Beautiful Words is the latest release from Tauranga-based musician Amanda Sloan, who goes under the name Celeste Music. This five-track EP is under 13 minutes long, and for the most part is based around the vocals of Amanda, accompanying herself on picked acoustic guitar, with additional instrumentation such as keyboards laid over the top.
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Arrays - Single Review: Glass Traps
06 Jun 2022 // A review by JamieDenton
Auckland-based rock/metal act Arrays is the brainchild and ‘creative sandbox’ of musician/producer JP Carroll (ex-Armed in Advance, and currently also with Swerve City). Having known JP for a number of years, and having followed his career through Stitches, which became Armed in Advance, and then into Arrays and later Swerve City, he has consistently remained a strong creative force, a passionate and prolific producer and performer of music, and possibly kiwi-music’s most genuine, nicest, and most down to earth personalities (albeit one that is loaded with a plethora of terrible puns that he will unleash at any and all opportune moments).
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Midwave Breaks - Gig Review: Midwave Breaks @ Whammy Bar, Auckland - 03/06/2022
05 Jun 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
Tauranga and Hamilton joined forces to send some of their best Alt-Rock acts to show Auckland a thing or two. First up is a 5-piece band from Hamilton, Retro Valley.
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Gig Review: NZ Music Month Wrap Party @ Tuning Fork - 31/05/2022
05 Jun 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Live music is back with swagger as event numbers grow and crowds swarm for a crucial mark of ‘return to normal’ in Auckland. At the Tuning Fork, sandwiched between the Port and the central city streets, a diverse crowd gathered at this all-ages event, to mark the end of NZ Music month, 2022.
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05 Jun 2022 // A review by LouClementine
Live music is back with swagger as event numbers grow and crowds swarm for a crucial mark of ‘return to normal’ in Auckland. At the Tuning Fork, sandwiched between the Port and the central city streets, a diverse crowd gathered at this all-ages event, to mark the end of NZ Music month, 2022.
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Investigator - Gig Review: Investigator &, Crystalator @ Cupid Bar, Auckland - 04/06/2022
04 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
So, it was back out to Point Chev tonight to catch Investigator who are currently on a high with their song Shade at #15 in the Official NZ Rock Airplay Charts. It was my first time to see Crystalator, who may have a new name but may well be known to many on the Auckland Scene as they used to be called Meridian Vibe, and with both Investigator and Crystalator having albums in the works it promised to be an interesting night.
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SNRXG - Single/Video Review: Makaveli-C Feat. SNRXG - Brothers
04 Jun 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
The new video from Makaveli-C Feat. SNRXG takes Hip-Hop and puts some New Zealand flavour in it.
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Written By Wolves - Gig Review: Written By Wolves & Coridian @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 3/06/2022
03 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I was told a few weeks back that Written By Wolves and Coridian were doing another fundraiser for Dead Witch I was blown away, as the same gig last year was my #1 for 2022, and in my Top 10 of all time. I arrived early to ensure I could grab one of the limited-edition t-shirts (only 50, and only being sold here tonight) and was fortunate enough to catch the boys before the soundcheck and then stayed for that as well.
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Gig Review: Tuning Fork Birthday @ Tuning Fork, Auckland - 01/06/2022
03 Jun 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s the Tuning Fork’s birthday although it’s unaware. Inertness.
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03 Jun 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s the Tuning Fork’s birthday although it’s unaware. Inertness.
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Aanvi S - Single Review: I See You Now
02 Jun 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across Aanvi last year when I was approached by her mother to see if I would mind writing her first ever press release. The reason it was from her mum and not Aanvi herself was because at the time she was just nine years old.
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Phil Doublet - Album Review: Journeyman
02 Jun 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Phil Doublet is yet another of our unsung heroes in terms of New Zealand musicians plying their trade under the radar. For forty years.
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Paul The Kid - Single Review: Close My Eyes
01 Jun 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Paul The Kid is an extremely diverse artist, combining an eclectic mix of contemporary genres with prominent themes of hip-hop, dance and reggae to create absolute bangers. Paul is most at home performing live and his shows generate an eccentric energy that invites the audience to get involved in the party.
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Mister Unit - Album Review: Wake Me When We Get To Utopia
31 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when nothing will hit the spot like a dirty filthy good old-fashioned hard-hitting rock and roll band, and that is exactly what we have here. If I didn’t know they were from Wellington I would have guessed possibly New York, as there is no way they sound Kiwi.
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Revulva - EP Review: Girl's Gotta Eat
31 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut EP from Wellington-based octet Revulva which contains six songs at 27 minutes in length, three of which have been released as singles. They describe their music as “nu-jazz, nu-pop, nu-wave” which puts me at something of a loss, as when I think of the word “nu” I tend to put it in front of “metal” which gives us Slipknot et al.
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NZTrio - Gig Review: NZTrio @ Town Hall, Auckland - 29/05/2022
31 May 2022 // A review by Clare Martin
NZTrio celebrated mighty masterpieces alongside contemporary genre-busters for its twenty-year anniversary at Auckland Town Hall ’s Concert Chamber on Sunday night. NZTrio comprised of Somi Kim (piano), Ashley Brown (cello) and Amalia Hall (violin) have a proud legacy of performing works by Kiwi composers with over 70 commissions over two decades.
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Konarucchi - Single Review: Tongue-Tied
29 May 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Konarucchi is a multi-genre solo artist from a small town in New Zealand called Wainuiomata. He likes to experiment with many styles of music, without focusing on how they will fit together, because he believes that cohesion in music comes from the artist, rather than the genre.
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Geneva Waves - Single Review: Wild Arrivals
29 May 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Geneva Waves is a one person musical project, based in Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland. Steven Tait is the man behind the moniker, who’s produced this wonderful piece of music.
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Sam Bartells - Gig Review: Sam Bartells @ Ponsonby Social Club, Auckland - 28/05/2022
28 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Over to Ponsonby on a Saturday night – I must confess I cannot remember the last time I was in this part of Auckland, very different indeed to the rock dives I normally frequent. But given Sam Bartells was playing a special acoustic show, and it had been a year since I last saw him, it had to be done.
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Daniel Armstrong & The Monsoons - Gig Review: Daniel Armstrong & The Monsoons @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 27/05/2022
27 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Only a few weeks back I was saying I had not been to Tuning Fork for well over a year, and now here I was back again, this time to see a three-band line-up which was due to start at 8:00 pm with the last band due on at 9:30 which is a very sensible state of affairs if you ask me! First up was Ripship who comprise Callum Lincoln (guitar, vocals, loops) and Eva-Rae McLean (drums, vocals).
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Ariana Tikao - Single Review: Fly You Home
27 May 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Ariana Tikao’s Fly You Home is a beautiful track devoted to “indigenous solidarity” across the nation. Produced by Brooke Singer and Ben Lemi of French for Rabbits, the track is dreamy and gentle, offering a true sense of tranquility amongst the stress and sound of current times.
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Torn Chorus - Single Review: The Meaning of Light/Rhythm of Sound
26 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Torn Chorus is Franklin Davis, an Auckland-based songwriter, musician, and photographer, who provides bass, various guitars, and vocals. This is about how he perceives the world through light and sound, as a photographer and musician.
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Moofish - Single/Video Review: Ash Tree Lament
26 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I must confess to knowing very little about MOoFiSh apart from that they are a duo of Rhonda Hofmans Johnson and Chris Fish Johnson, and while Rhonda is the lead singer I don’t know if they create all the music themselves or if other musicians are involved. They have been releasing music since 2018, and my first thought on playing on this was “how on earth am I going to be able to describe this”?
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Shadowcaster - Single Review: Cast a Shadow
26 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Although there is a band when it comes to performing live, in the studio Shadowcaster is a one-man affair with Trent Graham performing all manner of guitars and some keyboards. While it contains elements of the likes of Mumford & Sons there is also a very definite nod to The Levellers and our very own Albi & The Wolves (although with no violin).
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Wiri Donna - EP Review: Being Alone
26 May 2022 // A review by bethany_rachell
It’s been two years since Wiri Donna’s first and only official release - a double single Manuka Money and Wandering Willies. Those who are in Wellington and have had the opportunity to see Wiri Donna live will be more accustomed to the heavier sound that they bring live.
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STATES - Single/Video Review: Hostage
26 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It has been a year since States released their last single, Relentless, but they were caught up in the COVID lockdowns and even though they recorded drum tracks at the end of 2020 they were unable to complete the songs. However, they are in the studio right now with Zorran Mendonsa (Devilskin, Coridian, City of Souls, Blacklistt) and hopefully they will be releasing material throughout the rest of the year as if this is anything to go by then we are on for a treat.
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Substax - Album Review: Linear Shift
26 May 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Those familiar with Kiwi dub and breakbeat music will likely be familiar with the name Substax, the electronic musical duo consisting of Nick Farrands and Claudia Gunn, who have been in the scene for well over twenty years. And those not yet familiar with Substax will undoubtedly get a good introduction with their newest full-length release Linear Shift.
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Al Park - Album Review: Pony
26 May 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Last year it was a Rooster. This year it’s a Pony.
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Rhombus - Album Review: After Party
26 May 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
I was wearing a New Zealand Music Month hoodie the other week. Upon seeing it, my niece gleefully exclaimed “You’ve got the year I was born on your hoodie.
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Riqi Harawira - Single/Video Review: Walk of Freedom
26 May 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Musician, Support Worker, Maori Customs Teacher, Non-violence Facilitator, and basically all-round amazing human being Riqi Harawira (aka ‘Creative Native’) presents his new single Walk of Freedom with accompanying music video on 24th June 2022. This will coincide with the release of the full-length feature film Whina – ‘A biopic of the trailblazing Maori leader, Dame Whina Cooper, whose extraordinary life saw her break gender boundaries, champion the rights of Maori, and fight for the land - all the while staying true to her heart and her beliefs.
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Michael Signal - Single Review: Magnetism
25 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Now, I must confess to being as much a fan of short song as I am of long ones and given how much I listen to Napalm Death that is probably a good thing. But all short songs I know tend to fall into one of two camps, in that they are either complete in their own right (and are generally brutal), or are introductory tasters for a longer piece of music and I cannot help but feel that what we have here is the latter and my only complaint is that it stops after 90 seconds and I feel somewhat bereft.
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Skank Bandit - Single Review: Suck On That
25 May 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Taranaki band Skank Bandit are excited to be releasing new music once again, in the wake of all the Covid lockdowns, hold-ups, and disruption to the music scene. As soon as they were able to jam together in person, this track was the first song they wrote.
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Infinity Ritual - Single Review: I'm Gone
25 May 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
New Plymouth three piece Infinity Ritual are blasting out the gate, fresh off the boots of their debut first single I'm Gone from their self-titled upcoming EP. The song begins with a thunderous drum fill courtesy of drummer Mark Thomas, making way for a big groovy, distorted onslaught of guitar riffage.
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Max Hill - Album Review: M.H.
23 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Max Hill (they/them) originally started as Slow Rage, which became a duo with the addition of drummer Sam Hatley, building quite a reputation in the all-ages scene. However, like many other musicians they decided to make the most of the first lockdown in 2020 and started work on what would turn out to be a totally solo album recorded in their bedroom.
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Stephen McDaid - Album Review: Trail Maps
23 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut solo album from Stephen McDaid, who has been somewhat busy helping out his in-law’s by playing on both Guy Hobson and Kay Duncan’s recent releases, but now he has found time to go out on his own. Given that he has been adding guitar to both those other albums it is no surprise that this is the primary instrument, but here it is an acoustic which is the perfect accompaniment to his strong vocals.
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Kay Duncan - Album Review: Interstellar Refugee
23 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
On this her debut album, Kay Duncan provides vocals and guitar, and she is joined by her husband Guy Hobson on keyboards and brother-in-law Stephen McDaid on lead guitar. I was initially listening to this while working outside on the farm and it took me a while to work out who her voice often reminded me of, namely Karen Carpenter.
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Guy Hobson - Album Review: Latitude
23 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Guy Hobson is a Christchurch-based composer and performer who specialises in instrumental music for film and was featured most notably on one by Force Five Films about the unveiling of Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic Spaceship Two SS2. He is a classically trained pianist who describes his music as Ambient, hypnotic and alt/modern classical, bringing in influences from classical, jazz, blues, and funk.
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Oliver Birch - Single Review: Docile Healthier
21 May 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
There is a strange paradox in the independent, self-produced musician who laments the seemingly ever dangerous trajectory of technological society. Because that same trajectory enables them to find liberation in creating new soundscapes without any objection.
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The New Things - EP Review: Pink Chocolate
20 May 2022 // A review by darryl baser
If I had to sum up The New Things four-song EP Pink Chocolate in two words they would be ‘perfectly imperfect’. The New Things are Tina McIvor and Jason Tamihana-Bryce, both have been around the indie music scene for a number of years separately and together; touring Japan a few years back.
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CAITLIN - Single Review: Hardly
19 May 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Caitlin Joy might not sound familiar but you’re a fan of some great acoustic pop/folk tunes, then you’ll want to read on. Having been raised by musicians, it’s no wonder that her musical beginnings started young.
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Cafe Fistfight - EP Review: Mourning Brew
19 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It feels like a lifetime ago now, but I guess it must be closer to 18 months, when I started daring to head into central Auckland and Dead Witch. I had agreed, in a moment of madness, to cover all the heats for the local battle of the bands competition and had no idea what I was letting myself in for.
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Elliott Dawson - Single Review: CEO
18 May 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Elliott Dawson plays angry art rock inspired both by British post-rock and South London jazz. CEO is the first single from his album Hang Low which will be released independently in September 2022 and was recorded at Surgery Studios in Te-Whanganui-a-Tara with engineer James Goldsmith (Avant-Glass, Recitals, Wiri Donna, Mermaidens, Earth Tongue).
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Voodoo Bloo - Gig Review: Voodoo Bloo w/ Friends @ Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland - 14/05/2022
16 May 2022 // A review by Gideon Voon
It’s mid-2022 and yet another gig is at the mercy of Covid. This time, Melanie was not spared.
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Anthonie Tonnon - Gig Review: Anthonie Tonnon @ Hollywood Cinema, Auckland - 14/05/2022
16 May 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
On a coolish Saturday evening it was great to see a rather large crowd that clearly were so happy and eager to experience a night of live music, and what a perfect venue to stage it at the slightly musty but still majestic Hollywood Cinema in Avondale. Opening the proceedings was the cool 4 piece band Lips with their ambient 80’s groove thanks to the techno synth sounds from keyboardist and singer Steph Brown.
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Afterlight - Single Review: Resolve
16 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There has never been any doubt in my mind that the most difficult musical format to get right is that of a trio, as while it is expected that the sound will be full and complete, there is also no room to hide. That is even more the case when that trio decide to be instrumental as there is no singer to take some of the load, and then what about when the musical grounding is in metal?
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Boy Virgo - EP Review: VILLAIN
16 May 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Despite hyperpop’s impressive rise in pop culture over the past few years, there’s a surprising lack of Kiwi artists in the genre. Boy Virgo is here to remedy that.
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DiCE_NZ - EP Review: The Situation
15 May 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
DiCE_NZ is a DJ and Producer from Auckland, Aotearoa. DiCE has worked with epochal bands such as Fat Freddy’s Drop and The Black Seeds, with his own collection of Disco, Funk, and Jazz edits to his name.
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French For Rabbits - Gig Review: French For Rabbits @ The Tuning Fork, Auckland - 13/05/2022
15 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
So it was back to The Tuning Fork for the first time in quite a while. I am struggling to remember the last time I was there, but possibly it was for Dragon, which was well over a year ago.
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No Life - EP Review: Radical Thoughts
14 May 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Whilst fairly fresh to the NZ music scene (original formation in 2019), South Island quartet No Life are here to leave a pummeling imprint on 2022 and beyond with the release of their debut EP. Radical Thoughts delivers three massive tracks of progressive metalcore with embellishments of modern nu metal and industrial.
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Yung Ludd - EP Review: Yung Ludd - Two Tone
13 May 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Born and raised in Lyttelton, Yung Ludd is the rap alias of musician Connor Strati. Having spent some time in Auckland in his twenties, he was exposed to a lot of the underground Hip-Hop scene there which proved to be very influential on his sound.
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Violet Highway - Single Review - Sick of Waiting
12 May 2022 // A review by tonymcdonald
I love the ending to this pop rock song - it's not your typical finish... so, make sure to check the song out all the way through.
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Samuel Philip Cooper - Single Review: Forever Loved
12 May 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Somewhere, over the rainbow, Samuel Philip Cooper’s Nana is still sitting in her favourite chair, a grey-haired old lady with a hint of a smile enjoying the late afternoon sun dappling into her garden. In reality Samuel’s Nana passed away during lockdown and he never got to say goodbye.
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Tess Liautaud - Album Review: Tess Liautaud
12 May 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Oh, the people of Christchurch have got music and soul everywhere, and yet another singer/songwriter emerges with an astonishingly mature debut and an international pedigree. Tess Liautaud is French, American and now Kiwi.
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Tony Jacob - Single Review: Just One Step
11 May 2022 // A review by darryl baser
The 2021 released single Just One Step by Tony Jacob is a sumptuously produced song, with lyrics and a very positive vibe. "You can move on mountains with just one step, you could take the world on with no regrets..
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James Hunter and The Gatherers - Gig Review: James Hunter and the Gatherers @ San Fran, Wellington - 7/05/2022
08 May 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
San Fran is absolutely bustling with people on Saturday night, all buzzing to see the unique line-up. With only two weeks' notice of the event, the turnout is astounding, proving the crowd's devotion.
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Tablefox - Gig Review: Tablefox @ Anthology Lounge, Auckland - 06/05/2022
08 May 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s New Zealand Music Month and here we all are at Anthology Lounge for the much awaited and much postponed Tablefox new album launch for Battles. It’s been a right old battle getting the new album out and played live, and this gig was originally scheduled for last August.
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In The Shallows - Gig Review: In The Shallows @ Spirit Festival - 05/05/2022
08 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I left work a little early on Thursday, and then fought my way from South Auckland, West to Kumeu Showgrounds, where Spirit Festival was taking place. In many ways this is a sister festival to Earthbeat which I attended last year in that it is very much for the alternative culture movement, with lots of stalls and a wonderful vibe.
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Colette Rivers - Single/Video Review: Memory Lake
08 May 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
New Zealand-American indie folk artist Colette Rivers has just released a video for her latest song Memory Lake. The video was filmed on the shores of Lake Taupo and is also the theme of her song.
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Imperial Slave - Gig Review: Imperial Slave @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 07/05/2022
07 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
And so, it came to pass I was back in Dead Witch for the second consecutive night, and my third gig in as many days, which really shows how the scene is ramping back up again under the orange settings. We have all been deprived of live music for so long, and bands are now dipping their toes back in the water while others are resetting dates which previously had been cancelled.
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Pull Down The Sun - Gig Review: Aotearoa Prog Alliance Tour @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 06/05/22
07 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This was the first night of the Aotearoa Prog Alliance tour, which is a showcase of progressive rock/metal over 9 shows in May, featuring three of Aotearoa's leading progressive rock/metal bands - Pull Down the Sun (Whanganui), Elidi (Christchurch), Claemus (Wellington) plus a local support at each stop. First up was Claemus, or at least a close approximation, as due to the wonderful lurgy which is COVID, plus a family commitment, the band was down to a duo of Taylor and Dan.
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The Hootz - Single Review: Stay Away
06 May 2022 // A review by Chris Chick
Hailing from the Garden City and just a short 15-minute drive from yours truly, the 4-piece band known as The Hootz are releasing their upcoming single Stay Away. This song has a very melancholy vibe to it, but not in the sense of it being a negative thing, if anything it has a very Summer vibe feel to it.
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Samuel Gaskin - Single Review: Rain
05 May 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Samuel Gaskin is a New Zealand born, Melbourne dwelling artist; he has just released his latest single Rain. Sam is an inspiring and innovative artist that stands up for the BIPOC LGBTQIA+ community; addressing his Indigenous heritage and ancestry in each art piece he produces.
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Bleeding Afterglow - Album Review: Find Your Taboo
05 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back in 2004 guitarist Sharne Scarborough was looking for a new rhythm section for Just One Fix, and he asked Ant Ward and Gaylene ‘G-Force’ to join. Although the bassist and drummer had bumped into each other on the circuit they were not really friends, and G actually complained to Sharne at one point that she was not sure if she could handle Ant’s persistent innuendos.
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Big Scout - Single Review: Redwood St. Massive
05 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
It’s not often that a song can take me straight back more than 40 years on the first time of hearing, only to reinforce that with repeated plays, but that is exactly what happened with this angry trio from Blenheim. This is stripped back music which has a great deal in common with the post punk Oi!
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Saint Mercury - Single Review: Ominous Warning (Ft. Shooless)
05 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Saint Mercury is the artist name for electronic producer Mark Linton who doesn’t see himself being at home in any particular genre but is more of a shapeshifter and on hearing this track one can understand why. Ominous Warning is his debut single, and he has given himself enough room to move around as it is more than five minutes in length.
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Davey Beige - EP Review: Rise Above
05 May 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Davey Beige comes straight out of the blocks on his new EP Rise Above. 80 In A 50km Zone is just what it implies, we’re off and running at almost top speed, even though “Life goes way too fast”.
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Goodspace - Single Review: Sit Down
05 May 2022 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
Goodspace are an Auckland 4-piece band in the style of what I want to call Glitch Dream Rock. A style that fuses together traditional songwriting styles with modern EDM soundscapes over Dream Pop vocal styles.
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LVST Night - Single Review: Roller
03 May 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Having recently nailed down releases with the sensational The Not Okays, as well as the mind-twisting alt-rock outfit MIRA, guitar player and songwriter Nori Wong has continued to keep himself occupied. Now trying his hand at producing electronic music, Nori has emerged under a new moniker, LVST Night.
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Arrays - Single Review: Forget Fast
03 May 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Remember the Names Armed In Advance or Stitches? Perhaps you should!
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No Man's Land - Single Review: West Coast
02 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is the third single from all-girl Wellington-based quartet No Man’s Land, which I am guessing is the rationale behind the name and I must admit it made me smile. That smile continued as I listened to West Coast as there is a naivety and pop sensibility to it which just a delight.
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ARIA - EP Review: Love Songs Till Midnight
02 May 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the debut EP from ARIA, and a really interesting release it is as well. The focus throughout is on her pure clear vocals which have a tone that bring the listener in close, no matter what style they are performing.
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This Little Badge - Single Review: Think of A Number
01 May 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Think of A Number is the first of a series of seven singles being released by This Little Badge, a project led by Dave Pope. This song is an upbeat little number, based around the house lyrical phrase "think of a number", with the title line being repeated for the chorus.
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Jackie Bristow - Gig Review: Jackie Bristow @ Anthology Lounge, Auckland - 28/04/2022
30 Apr 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Jackie Bristow brought her new album Outsider to Anthology Lounge in Auckland on Thursday night, inside it’s warm and intimate and the seats are out. We’re still getting used to an almost post-Covid world but enough brave souls have come out to make this a proper gig and to experience the little things which make live music so special.
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Gig Review: Rock Resurrection @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 29/04/2022
30 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, was my first gig at Dead Witch since we moved into Orange, so I was looking forward to a hot and sweaty night from the three bands involved. First up was Venom Dolls, whose EP I reviewed last year, then Living State who’s single One Sided I had in my top 10 for 2021, while the only band I had seen previously was Gravity Road, who now had a new bassist in Nathan Field who told me he had joined in February, but this was his first live gig in two years.
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30 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight, was my first gig at Dead Witch since we moved into Orange, so I was looking forward to a hot and sweaty night from the three bands involved. First up was Venom Dolls, whose EP I reviewed last year, then Living State who’s single One Sided I had in my top 10 for 2021, while the only band I had seen previously was Gravity Road, who now had a new bassist in Nathan Field who told me he had joined in February, but this was his first live gig in two years.
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Channeled - EP Review: Channeled II (Part One)
29 Apr 2022 // A review by [email protected]
Channeled, the facet of musical expression for Auckland’s Ben Ruegg are returning to the fold with Part One of Channeled II, a 3 part album that is being released over the next 6 months. Originally this was purely a solo project, and Channeled now has a live element as well as a debut album under their belt.
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Daniel Armstrong & The Monsoons - Single/Video Review: The Company
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Realistically, the cover art for this single tells the listener all they need to know about this song, as here are a band who are determined to have a load of fun and bring everyone along with them. It is actually a still from the video, more of that later.
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Pretty Stooked - Single Review: Wanted
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Eddie Kiesanowski has been involved in music from a young age, and while studying at ARA he formed his first band, Skelter. After they had released their debut EP they headed off to Melbourne with mentor Tom Larkin (Shihad).
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InDuna - Single Review: Love and Affection
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
South African artist InDuna teams up with Jah Tung and Kasa on the Tiny Triumph produced track Love and Affection. It’s a thrilling Afropop release encouraging a woman to keep pursuing true feelings and relationships, demanding her not to “call murder on love and affection”.
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Will McClean - Single Review: Ego Prison
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
I'm getting to hear more Will McClean... yes please!
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Ellery Daines - Album Review: Failure Thirty Minutes Deep
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Since I came across the single No-One I have been waiting for this album to drop, a feeling which was only exacerbated by the follow-up, Imposter Syndrome, but at long last it is here. I could quibble that there are only eight songs, and it is only 31 minutes long, but seeing as how it took Ellery some five years to get to this point, I am happy to have it at all!
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Taiotims - Single Review: All For You
28 Apr 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
This charming track from Mataio Timaloa AKA Taiotims really put a smile on the dial today. With simple uncluttered beats and a nostalgic feel, backing close, intimate vocals that have been recorded in such a way as to capture that up-close-and-personal vibe, and the subject matter “A love letter to my significant other half” is so lovely to hear in Hip-Hop, or any style of music really, what’s not to love about it?
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Brown Sugar Factory - EP Review: Halina't Sumayaw
27 Apr 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Brown Sugar Factory’s latest EP Halina't Sumayaw is an incomparable blend of funk, house, pop and dancehall, boasting the diverse musical backgrounds of producer Reid Ulberg and singer-songwriter Roberto Jatulan.Opening to silky vocal adlibs and gentle rain, Til Next Saturday pulses under smooth guitar and incredible harmonies.
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Sonic Space Lab - Single Review: Coming Out On The Other Side
26 Apr 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Based in Dunedin, Venezuelan producer and sound engineer Luis Rodriguez has been amongst the Aotearoa music scene since 2018, and he doesn’t appear to have lost steam along the way. His latest offering is entitled Coming Out On The Other Side, a new venture in which he places more focus on instrumental, electronic music and less on the structures of conventional songwriting.
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Mojo Alice - Single Review: Sad Face
26 Apr 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
If there is a phrase I can't stand right now it's "let's get ready for the new normal."Fuck that.
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WoLF - EP Review: Kook
26 Apr 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
WLF (Wolf) is the solo project of Otautahi Christchurch, NZ musician Aaron Hogg. With over 25 years as a vocalist, guitarist & bassist for bands such as Pumpkinhead, Slim & Thunderwülf, Aaron has amassed a wealth of experience both live & in the studio.
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Vogel Town - Single Review: Sludge City
24 Apr 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
Interestingly Vogel Town's new song Sludge City begins with an automated telephone voice, and then a street argument which is soon accompanied by a very groovy walking bass line, quickly growing from just a couple of notes to a broad melody of its own. At first the only addition is some nice, nonchalant drum fills, but as the background street noise fades away, the introduction of vibrant reverberating guitar strums adds a final element that completes the ensemble perfectly, and altogether this provides a very cool bluesy vibe.
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Fin Rah Zel - Single Review: Negativity No More
21 Apr 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
If you’re looking for a quintessentially Kiwi kickstart to your day, Negativity No More is the perfect toe-tapping new release from New Plymouth surf-pop band Fin Rah Zel. It’s a barbecue jam about “having the courage to let go of the negative influences in our lives,” and a showcase of musicianship so strong, it sounds entirely effortless.
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Janine Mitchell & The Haewai Collective - Album Review: Etched In My Soul
20 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Janine is a Wellington-based folk artist steeped in the 60’s tradition of protest singers and environmentalism, and on this album, she is joined by Jack Binding (acoustic lead guitar, vocals), Kevin Ikin (mandolin, harmonica, percussion, backing vocals), and Shaun Clifford (production, various instrumental overlays), while she provides vocals and acoustic guitar. On the rear cover she details what each song is about, the message she is conveying, while the songs always have her vocals front and centre, with others joining in on the chorus.
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Hans. - EP Review: Kimyuntak
20 Apr 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, Hans. is an exciting Korean artist that has been dubbed by VICE Magazine as "One of the rising stars of New Zealand Hip Hop.
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Eliezer - Album Review: Diary Entries Vol 1
20 Apr 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
This is a great album. Even at 30 mins long, the overall feel and vibe of it is fantastic.
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Ignatia : Rising - Single Review: Not One Step Back
18 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Apparently, these guys were around in the Nineties before they went on an extended sabbatical, getting back together in 2019. Since then, they have released a few singles, of which Not One Step Back is the latest.
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Pale Flag - Gig Review: Pale Flag @ The Thirsty Dog, Auckland - 16/04/2022
16 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
So, it was back up to The Thirsty Dog tonight for the first time in quite a while for a three-band bill. I was looking forward to this as the last time I saw Pale Flag they were very good indeed, but it did mean I was missing Deathnir at Ding Dong.
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Missrosevalentina - Album Review: Hyperkunt
14 Apr 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Wellington based electronic artist Hybrid Rose has just dropped her fifth album which goes by the no nonsense name of Hyperkunt. A futuristic cyberspace like character with attitude occasionally courting controversy, Hybrid Rose continues to deliver inspiring original dance tunes infused with an abundance of attitude.
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Checaine - EP Review: Black River
13 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Earlier this year I was fortunate enough to catch Hamilton-based Checaine on the Auckland leg of the tour to promote the EP I am now listening to. I came away impressed that night and playing these five tracks remind me again of just why that was.
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Neil Beales - Single Review: Missing Words
13 Apr 2022 // A review by ApolloSteamTrain
Missing Words is the latest solo offering from Wellington based songwriter Neil Beales who is also a member of the band Tower of Flints. The track was Recorded at the Outland Sessions, a week long songwriting collaboration event where Neil has been a regular attendee for the last few years.
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Joseph E Harrison - Single Review: Blameless
11 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Joseph E Harrison came over to NZ from Sheffield at the end of the 90’s, since when he has been performing in different bands, most notably in Brave New Void. His new single, Blameless, is a totally solo performance, with Joseph writing, performing, and recording this on his own, and it immediately evokes one performer and period in particular.
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Nigel Parry - Album Review: Tales of Common Folk: Salt & Sweet Kisses
11 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Much of the folk music I hear in NZ has other elements added to it, such as bluegrass, Americana and country, but after only a few seconds of the opening number Three Danish Galleys, on Nigel Parry's new album Tales of Common Folk, Salt & Sweet Kisses, I knew we were in for what I think of as “the real thing”, namely English Folk Music which has been brought up to date yet staying true to the tradition. Even though I think of myself primarily as a metalhead or proghead, there is no doubt that folk has always had a powerful hold on me, and when I travelled from one side of the world to the other for a festival some five years ago, it was to attend Cropredy not Wacken.
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Steve Tofa - Album Review: Koko Stax: The Legend Of Leni Mafu
11 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when an album is put on, and the listener starts to smile virtually immediately, warming to what is going on in their ears and Steve Tofa's new album, Koko Stax: The Legend of Leni Mafu, is just one of those. I loved this the very first time I played it, and it has just got better each and every time since then.
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Tony Lee - Album Review: Man on Mars
11 Apr 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Tony Lee is a Man on Mars. With a “here we go” Tony Lee’s band launch into a hootenanny rocking billy of an opening song which reminds me of the kind of frantic rhythm you might see and hear at Roberts Western World of a night, any night, on Broadway in Nashville.
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Gravel Pit - EP Review: Wolves/Gravel Pit Split EP
10 Apr 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Open your ears, get your windmill arms ready and brace yourself for 5 tracks of hardcore punk from some of New Zealand’s finest. Bringing back the classic 7” vinyl split EP on side one are the relatively new Auckland 4 piece Wolves featuring members of the Bleeders, City of Souls and Evil Priest.
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Mousey - Gig Review: Mousey @ Meow, Wellington - 7/04/2022
08 Apr 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
It’s the first truly cold night of the year as Mousey and her band fill out Wellington’s Meow. The venue’s eclectic vibe, covered in bookshelves, clocks and colourful walls, perfectly match the energy of the two indie acts of the evening, and the room buzzes with anticipation from many devoted, excitable fans.
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The Mechanism - Single Review: Living in Colour
08 Apr 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
People who follow the NZ music scene will have probably noticed by now that musicians tend to move in circles dabbling in different types of music, and often work on each other's projects or play in multiple bands throughout their careers. One of those awesome names to have hit the scene in recent times with 3 of his own EP’s is Geoff Ong.
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Pale Lady - Single Review: Never Satisfied
07 Apr 2022 // A review by River Tucker
2017 Battle Of The Bands national champions Pale Lady have hit another home run with their latest single; Never Satisfied. Contrary to the song title, you can tell these four young guys who hail from Wellington are having shit loads of fun playing this fantastic song.
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Turkey The Bird - Album Review: When Turkeys Fly
07 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When one sees cover art where the band are wearing clothes which were never in fashion even in the height of disco, combined with a somewhat unusual name then this is either going to be something incredibly special, or something spectacularly bad. However, I had high hopes from this band and when the harmonies hit just 25 seconds into opener Orbit, I knew I was in for a fun time.
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End Boss - Album Review: They Seek My Head
07 Apr 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's End Boss featuring members of Beastwars and Ghidoragh and the incredible vocals of EJ Thorpe, have delivered one of the finest albums of 2022. A heavy music juggernaut, which combines huge lashings of doom, stoner and heavy metal with cinematic, post metal, ethereal vocals and elements that leave your ears comfortably bleeding and your mind blown musically and lyrically throughout.
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REID - Single Review: Savannah
07 Apr 2022 // A review by LouClementine
REID is solo artist, based in Wellington, who is making straight-up fun and catchy pop music. Inspired by a desire to simply get people to sing and dance along, REID’s debut single, Savannah, is one of those songs that is the soundtrack to sunny days.
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Michèle Ducray - Single/Video Review: Manifesto
06 Apr 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Christchurch-based pop artist Michele Ducray releases her sophomore single Manifesto, complete with slick video clip produced by Shae Sterling, courtesy of NZ On Air. This dark and intriguing track opens in a foreboding room, filled with polaroid pictures hung on strings, and a somewhat disturbed-seeming character sitting on a step, alone.
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Hannah May - Single Review: Written in the Sea
05 Apr 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
There is no time for “beating around the bushes” with Hannah May’s latest single Written in the Sea, a warning call to act on climate change that also introduces her debut EP, out later this year.Led almost exclusively by a jaunty acoustic guitar, every musical element of Written in the Sea sounds warm and comforting, thanks to a skillful mix by Tay Oskee, and mastering from Paul Blakey.
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Imugi - EP Review: It's OK To Be A Lil Alien
05 Apr 2022 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Auckland-based Imugi is comprised of beatmaker/producer Carl Ruwhiu and songwriter/vocalist Yery Cho. With regular releases since 2017 and some big shows and festivals under their belt, Carl and Yery have carved out a space for themselves in the New Zealand music scene, and don’t look to be going anywhere anytime soon.
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Arrays - Single Review: Obsidian Oceans
03 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I can’t believe it is more than a year since I wrote about JP’s last album, Light Years, but it was and now here he is with the new single from the forthcoming third album, Patience Way. Arrays never sound like the work of just one man but always come across as a full band, which says a great deal about the skill of the person behind it all.
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Album Review: Various Artists - True Colours New Colours
03 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Unless you live in NZ it is probably unlikely you will realise just what an important band Split Enz was/is to the local scene. Sure, they had some international hits and I remember hearing I Got You back in the UK when it was released as a single, but in NZ/Aus they were/are royalty and True Colours has rightly taken its place as one of the most important albums ever released in Aotearoa.
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03 Apr 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Unless you live in NZ it is probably unlikely you will realise just what an important band Split Enz was/is to the local scene. Sure, they had some international hits and I remember hearing I Got You back in the UK when it was released as a single, but in NZ/Aus they were/are royalty and True Colours has rightly taken its place as one of the most important albums ever released in Aotearoa.
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Marianne Leigh - Gig Review: Marianne Leigh w/ Edera and Rose Lubransky @ Valhalla, Wellington - 30/03/2022
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Behind Valhalla’s metal doors and graffitied walls, you would be surprised to find a trio of young acoustic performers playing to a sold-out student crowd this Wednesday night. Auckland’s Marianne Leigh took to the stage for the final night of her release tour for the Simple Things EP.
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Jeiel - Album Review: Fatal Attraction
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Jeivenchy, not to be confused with “Givenchy”, is a singer/songwriter based in Wellington, New Zealand. His debut album Seenzoned introduced his melodramatic lyrics, 80's inspired vocals and catchy choruses.
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Sam Bambery - Album Review: Songs About Sailors
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
One of the real delights in discovering so much NZ music is most of the artists I am asked to review I know nothing about beforehand, so each piece of music is a total surprise and I have no preconceived opinions ahead of time. I also never read press releases until I have played the album/single, so I approach the music very clean.
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Voodoo Bloo - Single Review: Small
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Wellington band Voodoo Bloo are back with the second single from their forthcoming album, The Blessed Ghost, and given what I have heard so far that it definitely one I am looking out for. I was impressed with Skin, which came out towards the end of last year, and while this one obviously has similarities it is also very different indeed.
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No Broadcast - Album Review: Lie In Orbit
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Back in May last year I was fortunate enough to catch No Broadcast supporting Dead Favours in Christchurch, since when I reviewed the title cut of this album when it was released as a single. Their last album was all the way back in 2015, but after four years hard work the guys are finally back with their third, and it was worth the wait.
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The First Child - Album Review: Sincerely Yours
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I’ve seen The First Child play a few times over the last year, so was pretty sure I knew what to expect from this 7-track EP, but when it commenced with Lunacy, You’re So Beautiful, I was nothing short of shocked. The reason for that is these guys are a post hardcore act with stacks of aggression, so to have the album start with gentle vocals and plenty of keyboards was not what I expected at all!
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Sin City - Album Review: Welcome to Sin City
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the full-length debut from Sin City, a duo formed around Jack Beesley and Nick Armstrong, who here have combined with producer Delaney Davidson on bass, John Segovia on lap steel and Alistair Deverick (Boycrush) on drums. Jack and Nick are probably best-known for their antics with garage punk rockers The Cavemen, and it was after that band’s world tour in 2019 that they relocated to Spain and knocked out about 100 songs.
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Slimivich - Single Review: Desert Shimmer
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This release is probably going to confuse quite a few people when they realise that the person behind Slimivich is none other than Slim Jenkins from Christchurch metal outfit Tainted, here back with his first new music in some time. But this isn’t metal, it is rap/hip-hop being taken in a new direction.
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Corrella - Single Review: Seafarer
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Corrella are a 7-piece band based in Auckland who have real links to the sea as some of their members have been in the navy while others are still serving. The sea is something to which I have always had a close affinity, as I was raised in a small fishing community where most of the men on my mum’s side of the family were trawlermen while my dad was in the navy, and his father was a coastguard.
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Odds & Ends - Single Review: Something Else
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When I reviewed their last single, Picture, I said I could tell Odds & Ends had a sense of humour just from the cover, and that is the case again as here we have a digital release which features a pile of cassettes (which are apparently very much in fashion again, although I have no idea why). That song saw them break the Top 40 Singles chart, while it was in the Top 10 NZ Singles, and it is possible to see this going the same way.
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Sabreen Islam - Single Review: Count Me Out
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Auckland based young singer-songwriter Sabreen Islam, has just released the third and final instalment of her “pop trifecta” the last of three songs called Count Me Out. A light and airy original based around being stood up on a first date.
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Kyla Greening - Single Review: Rich Girl
31 Mar 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Kyla Greening hails from Cambridge, and while Rich Girl is her first release as such, she is already known to many in the Waikato as an experienced performer and very capable singer who is comfortable in range of music situations. Fair to say that for many it could be said that for many, this release has been keenly anticipated, Greening combines three key elements into Rich Girl - A thorough understanding of RnB/ Soul songwriting and arranging, sensitive and intelligent production/arrangements, and a sophisticated, melodic sensibility.
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Hamish Gavin - Album Review: I've Been Waiting For This
30 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This album was originally recorded as home demos while Hamish Gavin was living in a community in Germany. Drums were later recorded at a home studio at a different volunteer project in Pisa, Italy while the mixing took place over the following year.
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The Chaddington Street Milk Collective - Album Review: Crescendo Ultima Morendo
30 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When Wellington-based Juddy first heard Love Junkie by California-based Sonnyboy he was so inspired that he started recording similar music himself. From there it was just a simple matter of contacting Sonnyboy and suggesting they collaborate on an album together, and this is the result.
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Juddy - Album Review: I Am A New Tie Wearing
30 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Juddy originally started off as a guitarist in punk bands before discovering Love Junkie by Sonnyboy, which inspired him to invest in a MIDI keyboard and pull together an album which is apparently influenced by his love of mid 90’s video games. Mind you, even then those games must have been retro, as the sounds being utilised on this have a much better fit with the decade before.
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The Late Starters - Single Review: Quarter To Ten
30 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the latest single from Christchurch band The Late Starters, which is a precursor to the EP due out later this year. They released their debut album, Age – A State of Mind, back in 2019 and lovingly describe their music as “an enjoyable nostalgic trip into the future.
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Bach Musica NZ - Gig Review: Bach Musica NZ @ St Matthew-in-the-City, Auckland - 26/03/2022
29 Mar 2022 // A review by Clare Martin
A night of opera choruses and arias performed live in the wake of the peak of Omicron was the miracle delivered by Bach Musica NZ at St Matthew-in-the-City, Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland. A miracle because choral singing has proven to be a super-spreader of Covid and was avoided like, well, the plague.
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Fear Up Harsh - Fear Up Harsh - Album Review: Fear Up Harsh (II)
28 Mar 2022 // A review by Peter-James Dries
There is a rumour that, when played simultaneously, Fear Up Harsh (II) syncs perfectly with Jim Jarmusch’s The Limits of Control. The rumour is a lie of course, like many rumours are, but you’d be forgiven for believing it.
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The Flow Collective - Album Review: Flow
27 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
This is a wonderful album, very New Zealand, but also very much classic singer-songwriter in a way which is not often heard these days. It took me a while to think who they remind me of, but in the end, I settled for English singer Talis Kimberly and Australian Maryen Cairns, both incredible performers who have released essential albums.
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Fire For Glory - Gig Review: Fire For Glory @ Save Ding Emothon, Dead Witch, Auckland - 25/03/2022
26 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Tonight was the Save Ding Emothon, with DJ sets in the main bar and then Fire For Glory playing a gig at Dead Witch upstairs. Of course, the decision was made that they would not start their set until 10:30 which was a pain in the neck as I decided that I was going to have dinner at the bar, so I was there for just after 7:00!
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Wiri Donna - Single Review: No Follow Through
24 Mar 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Te Whanganui a-Tara's Bianca Bailey, better known as Wiri Donna, shares her enticing indie rock jam No Follow Through as an introduction to her hotly anticipated debut EP due for release later this year.Its message insists that the only person with real expectations for you is you, making No Follow Through an excellent single as it offers something of a thesis statement for the quality of music Wiri Donna plans to share.
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Birdfeeder - EP Review: The Vile Isle
24 Mar 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Led by keyboard player and songwriter Stephanie Cairns, Birdfeeder makes music for time travellers, tea leaf readers and full moon gazers. Their south seas art-pop is characterised by unearthly melodies, surprising shifts and vintage timbres.
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SKRAM - Single Review: Living Our Lives
22 Mar 2022 // A review by Andrew Smit
Beginning with some straightforward but quite funky keys your soon steered to a very upbeat and chunky ensemble of music that energetically drives along with its super groovy reggae vibe. SKRAM are a very high energy 3-piece pop group that have delivered a fine tune that embodies their claim of “energetic” perfectly.
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Goldsmith Baynes - Single/Video Review: To Ihu
20 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are times when one is sent a song which oozes class from every pore, and that is exactly what we have here in one of the most delicious and delightful jazz numbers I have ever come across. Goldsmith Baynes is a musical partnership between singer Allana Goldsmith and pianist Mark Baynes, but in this number they bring it out to a full band with Hikurangi Schaverien-Kaa (drums), Alex Griffith (electric bass), Cameron Allen (saxophones), Jono Tan (trombone) and Mike Booth (trumpet and horn arrangement).
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OTTS - EP Review: Overboard The Troubled Ship
20 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
OTTS are a trio from the Taranaki, and this two-track EP is their fourth to date as they work towards their debut album. Formed in 2020, they have a sound which takes me back more than 40 years to the indie commercial punk style which came through in the second wave in the UK when bands decided they would actually like to be featured on Top of the Pops and the radio after all.
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Crystalator - Single Review: Sludge
18 Mar 2022 // A review by Investigator
I have the pleasure of introducing THE new rock act hailing from Auckland, Crystalator. I'm listening to their debut single Sludge.
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Jarrod Ross - Single Review: Hail
18 Mar 2022 // A review by [email protected]
Jarrod Ross, formerly of Pan Am and Valedictions, brings us Hail, a solo effort of the rock variety, born of lockdown conditions. Reminiscent of some of the dreamier aspects of American and British rock of the recent and distant past, Ross’ solo project was a long time plan, enabled by the pandemic.
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SOJØURN - EP Review: Mystic Ways
17 Mar 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
Surf, Sun, Sojøurn. If it isn’t a catchphrase of a quintessential Kiwi summer, then it will be soon.
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Ellery Daines - Single Review: Imposter Syndrome
17 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Ellery Daines is back with the second single from his forthcoming album, Failure Thirty Minutes Deep, and I really wish he would hurry up and release that as it something I am really looking forward to, given just how different this is to the last single, No-one, which I also really enjoyed. Originally from Nelson, but now residing in the Norwegian Arctic city of Tromsø, Ellery is a multi-instrumentalist who has been working on his album for some five years.
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Eurenza - Single Review: Victim of Circumstance
17 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Following on from last year’s Good Luck... You're Gonna Need It EP, Eurenza are back with their next single.
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Unknown - Single Review: I Am
17 Mar 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Sins of Eve have just released their wickedly evil new single I Am. I’ve not heard of Sins of Eve before personally, but a little bit of a back story tells me that they have been around for quite some time on the rock scene in Christchurch but have recently rejigged their line-up with the inclusion of Lexie Mia Le Cocq on vocals.
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Scapegoat - Single Review: The Dead of Night
16 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Rene Black is best known as being the man behind the kit for Cripple Mr Onion and His Masters Voice, and these days can be found in premier NZ Sabbath tribute band After Forever, but anyone expecting a similar bombastic approach to the debut single from his solo project Scapegoat is in for quite a surprise. The Dead of Night commences with a pre-war ballad, even down to the crackly vinyl, before it is replaced by a simple repeated motif on acoustic guitar.
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TOOMS - Album Review: Fake Teeth
16 Mar 2022 // A review by LouClementine
So, a 15 tracker, entitled Fake Teeth, released on limited vinyl, from the excellent duo which are Tooms. They are: Nich Cunningham and Dorian Noval.
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Partyboi Pan - Single Review: Mystical Barz
16 Mar 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Partyboi Pan is the founder of The Mason, a vision to upgrade the very idea of what parties are with the sole purpose of showcasing local passions and talents.His latest track Mystical Barz opens with a dialogue that really sets the mood for the track.
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Revulva - Single Review: One Puff Wonder
15 Mar 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Revulva are an eight-piece band from Wellington who describe themselves as “nu-wave, nu-jazz, nu-pop”. A jazzy-pop octet who have just released their third single One Puff Wonder, which follows on from debut singles Sniffy Lady and Turning Out and builds on the foundation for their up and coming EP Girls Gotta Eat, set to be released late March 22.
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Video Nasty - EP Review: Menthol b/w Filthy
15 Mar 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
Video Nasty are a three piece hailing from Auckland. Having formed in 2020, their cacophony sound is a blend of noise rock that gives you reason to listen.
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Lauren Gin - Single Review: Remedy Feat. Janayah
14 Mar 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Lauren Gin has her goals set high. She has confessed that ever since the age of 20 she’s determined to set her name among the world of Kiwi producers.
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Flying Man - Single Review: Since You've Been Gone
14 Mar 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Dunedin based; Irish born artist Flying Man released his debut single Since You’ve Been Gone on the 28th of January. A haunting acoustic ballad about the aftermath of losing someone close to you, Since You’ve Been Gone is a reflective look at life after death, and the struggle that comes with trying to go about everyday life when you’ve lost someone special.
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Lee Martin - Gig Review: Lee Martin @ Wunderbar, Lyttleton - 09/03/2022
11 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I had been waiting a very long time for this gig, but finally it was the night of Lee Martin’s album launch for Gypsy Soul. I had promised her I would be there for it, so I had taken time off work and had flown down from Auckland back home to Oxford just for this.
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David Sutton - Album Review: X
11 Mar 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Wellington based songwriter David Sutton has been regularly releasing albums of his original songs for a good few years now. This year he’s changed tack a bit and released a covers album.
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The Not Okays - Single/Video Review: Better Days
10 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have the second single from The Not Okays, following on from their cover of Bite Me which came out towards the end of last year. Noriel Wong (guitar), Aaron Prictor (guitar, vocals), Lauren Kate Borhani (vocals), Caitlin Clark (bass) and Bahador Borhani (drums) started this band as a fun excuse to be able to go out and blast some of their favourite Emo tunes, and this is their first original.
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Lorenzo Hazelwood - EP Review: Vol. 3
10 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I first came across Lorenzo Hazelwood last year with his single Same Mistake, which I thoroughly enjoyed, but due to one or two lockdowns I had been unable to catch either him or his band, Cut To The Bone, in concert. Thankfully, that was rectified last Saturday when he performed an acoustic gig (it’s hard to undertake rock gigs in Red Traffic Light) and I came away mightily impressed with his voice and approach to music.
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Mousey - Album Review: My Friends
10 Mar 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
Christchurch artist Mousey is well-recognised for her tremendous list of achievements, from Silver Scroll and Taite Music Prize Best Debut nominations, to support slots for industry giants. But the best way to prove an artist is worth listening to is simply telling you they make good music.
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Ersha Island - Double Single Review: Good Day/Gut Feeling
09 Mar 2022 // A review by Trevor Faville
Ersha Island consists of Auckland based siblings Danielle Hao-Aickin (vocals and keys) and Tee Hao-Aickin (violin) both of whom bring extensive musical training and experience into this foray into a more contemporary genre. Quite a bit of press attention has already gone the way of this duo, and even a cursory read of this reveals two highly motivated women with a clear vision of what they are doing- in terms of both the musical intent and cultural perspective.
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Aro - Single/Video Review: Tohora
09 Mar 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
When it comes to describing the music of husband and wife Charles (Ngapuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngati Te Ata, Te Ati Awa) and Emily Looker (nee Rice), AKA Aro, I have long lost all rationality as I love what they do so very much indeed. I was devastated (as were they, to be honest) when their national tour was cancelled last year when we went into lockdown, as I have not heard anyone quite like them.
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David Kirby - EP Review: Songs To Depress Your Dog
09 Mar 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Originally from Middlesbrough UK now based in Wellington, David Kirby is a singer/songwriter focusing on the unusual musical combination of folk/folk-punk acoustic songs. Songs to Depress Your Dog is Kirby's second EP, following on from his 2020 debut EP Can’t Move For Doom.
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Phil Stoodley - Single/Video Review: Shame Shame
08 Mar 2022 // A review by Ben Ruegg
The new single from Phil Stoodley, Shame Shame, is a fantastic track that is not only catchy but has such a vibe to it that you will be hitting repeat over and over. With a solid bass line propping up the main guitar riff, the drums hold it all together and allow for Phil's vocals to sit neatly in place, which by the way sound real and authentic.
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Ekko Park - Single Review: Breakdown
08 Mar 2022 // A review by [email protected]
After a phenomenal-yet-pandemic-maligned album release cycle with Horizon, Ekko Park are back with a new single, Breakdown. Ekko Park (Joe Walsh (lead vocals, guitar), Bryan Bell (bass), Nick Douch (drums) and newest addition Jessie Booth (guitar, backing vocals)), are a well-established Auckland rock quartet with an international pedigree and a penchant for hooky tracks of the highest order of quality.
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Nuggiez - Single Review: The Creeps
08 Mar 2022 // A review by Paul Goddard
Zeitgeist.One of my favourite words.
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Ella Minehan - Single Review: Lavender Hearts
07 Mar 2022 // A review by Danica Bryant
A despondent story of lost love boldly released the week of Valentine's Day, Christchurch pop-R&B singer Ella Minehan shines on her latest single Lavender Hearts. The track is an easy yet affecting tune, which somehow sounds exactly like its titular colour, lavender, if colours could be heard.
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Sidewinder - Album Review: Vines
05 Mar 2022 // A review by Kris Raven
Wellington's Sidewinder have just dropped their debut album Vines and coinciding NZ tour. The five-piece formed in 2020, have already made a mark on the rock NZ scene, releasing three singles (featuring on the Vines), along with national and international radio play and playing extensively in their home town and beyond.
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Jamie McDell - Album Review: Jamie McDell
04 Mar 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
What a year it has been for Kiwis in Nashville. Just last month we had Cy Winstanley from Tattletale Saints pass through (on holiday), South for Winter play a few cameo gigs supporting the release of their great little record Luxumbra, and then Jackie Bristow releases her 5th album, recorded in Nashville, while she stayed locked down here in New Zealand.
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AJSCeleste Music - Single Review: Celeste
03 Mar 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Though the album was released last year, it’s not uncommon for artists to retroactively release songs or submit to publications. The song of choice, interestingly, is the final song off the LP Let's Go, simply entitled Celeste.
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Daniel Hayles - Album Review: Other Futures
03 Mar 2022 // A review by Callum Wagstaff
Daniel Hayles is a piano and keyboard player, performing regularly in a variety of styles and settings. He also writes and arranges music for local and international artists, bands and shows.
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Tarn PK - Single Review: Street Noise
03 Mar 2022 // A review by Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo
Singer songwriter and producer Tarn PK has been emerging in New Zealand's music scene. He is a Wellington-based artist who, so far, has released two EP’s, received over 500 thousand streams on Spotify, and has landed himself in various Apple and Spotify playlists.
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Jackie Bristow - Album Review: Outsider
03 Mar 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Jackie Bristow has travelled a long, rough-hewn road. It’s nearly seven years since her last album, the gentle and sweet Shot of Gold.
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Metrosideros - Single Review: If This Be Love
02 Mar 2022 // A review by Steve Shyu
Steve S AKA Paul T Gheist was honoured to be invited into the Metrosideros camp for a hearty sample of their newest single If This be Love. Having not sat down with a cup of tea and some electro-dub music in years, Steve was completely and utterly all ears as he delved in.
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One Dead Man - Album Review: The Deal
27 Feb 2022 // A review by Kerry MB
If his name sounds familiar, Michael Baxter also fronts the Tauranga punk/noise-pop band, The Dead Man 6 and The Knids. The Deal is a 13 track slab of rock opera genius created from the confines of 2021’s lockdown and revels in honesty about anxiety and the extreme of relationships with the idea of making deals with the devil and the power of attraction and revenge.
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Gig Review: Beauty and the Bogans @ Dead Witch, Auckland - 26/02/2022
26 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have lost count of the number of times I have been to Dead Witch, but I do know that tonight is my third visit of 2022, and definitely the very first time I have been here when everyone had to be seated. For those outside New Zealand, the current rules are that there are set maximums which venues have to work with, everyone must be seated, and wearing masks with spacing between seats.
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26 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I have lost count of the number of times I have been to Dead Witch, but I do know that tonight is my third visit of 2022, and definitely the very first time I have been here when everyone had to be seated. For those outside New Zealand, the current rules are that there are set maximums which venues have to work with, everyone must be seated, and wearing masks with spacing between seats.
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Die! Die! Die! - Album Review: This Is Not An Island Anymore
26 Feb 2022 // A review by darryl baser
Die! Die!
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Speech Act Theory - Single/Video Review: Old Versus New
25 Feb 2022 // A review by JamieDenton
Initially conceived of as purely a studio project to fuse electronica with live drums and other instruments, Auckland-based alternative/electronica Speech Act Theory is the brainchild of producer/musician Pete Hickman alongside drummer Ben Bradford. With the project kicking off in the latter end of 2019 — which is probably not the greatest timing, with all the upcoming turmoil and disruption to live music etc.
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Glad Rabbit - EP Review: Pophits & Coffee
24 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
You must give this Dunedin quartet plenty of kudos for their name, as I don’t think I have smiled so much on seeing one since I came across Mice on Stilts years back. This is the debut release from Jack Ringhand (vocals, guitar), Ayumu Kobayashi (bass, vocals), Tom Corrigan (organ, vocals) and Ryan Finnie (drums, vocals).
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Don McGlashan - Album Review: Bright November Morning
24 Feb 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
Don McGlashan is gliding into iconic, almost patriarchal status in New Zealand’s musical heritage. His narrative is ours, his perspective the everyday, the mundane, the tragic and the joyful; snapshots of Kiwi normal, and occasionally not so.
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Barry Holt - Single Review: 21st Century Rant
24 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Wellington band The Barry Holt Cohort comprises of Barry on guitars and vocals, Chris Coad on fretless bass and Louie Levin on drum machine. Hailing from Liverpool, Barry grew up when that city was going through a period of austerity, and it is no surprise to hear punk and post punk in his style as well as The Beatles (of course) and T-Rex.
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Greta O'Leary - Single Review: Outnumbered
24 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Outnumbered is the debut single from Poneke alt-folk artist Greta O’Leary, and from the first delicate picked notes on guitar, violin and double bass, the listener is being brought into an incredibly atmospheric world. Her voice belies her age, as one can never believe that anyone as young as this could have suffered the pain this voice brings us.
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Lee Martin - Album Review: Gypsy Soul
24 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I think I need to start this review with a series of statements. I first came across South African born Lee Martin when she signed to AAA Records for her debut NZ EP Lost Girl back in 2019, and my good friend TeMatera Smith asked me to write the press release.
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Ezra Phoenix - Single Review: Storm
24 Feb 2022 // A review by madeleinehoward
Wellington based R&B artist Ezra Phoenix returns with his dreamy single Storm. Released on the 18th of February, Storm follows on from Ezra’s debut self-titled album, which was released in February of 2021, as well as the November release of Diamond Dress.
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Darryl Baser - Album Review: Voicemails to my Fiancee
23 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
There are some albums where the listener feels they are intruding way too much on something which is incredibly private. Back in 1979 Dennis DeYoung had a major argument with the rest of Styx as he felt that even though he had played them Babe it was way too private for it ever to be recorded and made available, but we all know he lost and even though it only made it to #3 here in NZ, it did top the charts in plenty of other countries.
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Little Ripples - Single Review: Little Bee
23 Feb 2022 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Little Ripples are a children's music act from Whangarei Heads comprising of Sam and Emily Benges, plus their youngest son Arlo. The trio have recently released the first song from their album In My Garden.
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Human Susan - EP Review: Fun Is Fun
20 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
According to their Bandcamp page, Human Susan is an alien trying to assimilate herself into the world, navigating the absurdity and mundanity of human embodiment. A crunchy and sparkly cosmic soup.
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Viices - Single Review: Coffee
20 Feb 2022 // A review by Epitomised_Drummer
Something a little different landed on my desk this morning, a new release from a Wellington rock trio Viices featuring Jake, Geordie, and Will. I’ve not heard Viices before, so I thought I’d read a few of their previous reviews and see if I could form a picture of what they might sound like.
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Sean Bodley - Album Review: Past Present Future: Vol. 1
20 Feb 2022 // A review by HazzaMakingNoise
The electric guitar may have faded in its pre-eminence as the foundation of popular music, but New Zealand’s own Joe Satriani Sean Bodley won’t let that get in the way of producing the most delectable and technically mesmerising instrumental guitar music in Aotearoa. His first release since 2020’s full length album Neon Daydreams; Past Present Future: Vol.
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Kendall Elise - Gig Review: Kendall Elise @ Kumeu Live, Kumeu - 19/02/2022
20 Feb 2022 // A review by roger.bowie
It’s an easy drive out west on this balmy February evening because everyone must be somewhere else or dodging aerosol missiles at home or flinching at the news from Ukraine. Kumeu Live is a small venue fashioned out of the Arts Centre with seating for 40-50 inside and an open flow outside to benches on a concrete court.
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Looking For Alaska - Gig Review: Looking For Alaska & Albi & The Wolves @ Nivara Lounge, Hamilton - 18/02/2022
19 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Last Friday saw me drive more than 100 km north to the middle of nowhere to see Looking For Alaska and Albi & The Wolves on their A Little Less Space tour which sees them share the stage throughout the night. They were just so good that tonight I drove a little further in the other direction down to Hamilton to see them all over again, with the added bonus that South For Winter were tonight’s support.
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Rewind Fields - Album Review: Rewind Fields
19 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Rewind Fields is the experimental pop recording project of Auckland singer-songwriter Callum Lee, who discovered some previously unfinished and abandoned songs on an old laptop and revisited them to make an album. When one understands where the songs originated from, this makes far more sense as it feels exactly as if it has been recovered from somewhere, as opposed to something organically pulled together at a single point in time.
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19 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
Rewind Fields is the experimental pop recording project of Auckland singer-songwriter Callum Lee, who discovered some previously unfinished and abandoned songs on an old laptop and revisited them to make an album. When one understands where the songs originated from, this makes far more sense as it feels exactly as if it has been recovered from somewhere, as opposed to something organically pulled together at a single point in time.
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South for Winter - Gig Review: South For Winter @ The Ministry of Folk, Auckland - 17/02/2022
19 Feb 2022 // A review by Kev Rowland
I knew tonight was going to be a first for me, although in more ways than I originally expected. We had been asked if we were interested in reviewing an American/Kiwi folk duo, South For Winter, who live in Nashville but were in New Zealand for a couple of months and of course I agreed.