James Kohler - Single Review: Rhea
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.
I was instantly drawn to comparisons with Lou Reed/Velvet Underground with this track. The opening few instrumental bars have a deliciously '60s vibe to them. The subdued playing of the drummer and bass guitarist provide a mellow, lulling rhythm for the sweetly jangly guitar and Manzarek-like keys to lilt dreamily over, the whole effect leading one to perhaps expect an ode to a sweetheart.
However, the lyrics more lean towards the dark, in a wonderful juxtaposition of moods. The narrator is far from impressed with watching Rhea's slow decline, as the soulless company she's employed by pass her over for promotion, move her to less desirable locales and departments, seemingly never valuing her worth in a way that she expects them to. "Rhea... reinvent your life!" is the narrator's heartfelt plea in the chorus, even though he can tell it's going to fall on deaf ears.
If you're having a sad day, if your life feels meaningless or directionless, pop Rhea on for a listen. Once you've compared your life to Rhea's, you'll be having a better day. Plus, the music is lovely.
About James Kohler
His body of work runs deep, with plans to expand on his output with a never ending bootleg series.
His studio album Will and Way is due for release early 2023. Speckled with brightly shining pop hooks and natural musicianship, his lyrics detail a spiritual journey amid the increasingly materialistic and nihilistic culture of our times. Will and Way is an honest plea towards fighting inner peace, without losing the spirit to live the good fight in this life.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for James Kohler
Other Reviews By Peter K Malthus
Yaya and the Snakes - Album Review: The Whole Shebang
26 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Dictaphone Blues - EP Review: Greetings From Glen Eden
26 May 2023 // 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!
Read More...
Gig Review: The Titans Tour @ 12 Bar, Christchurch - 18/05/2023
21 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Boom! Boom! Deluxe! - Single/Video Review: Leopard Print
16 May 2023 // 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!
Read More...
Gig Review: Devilskin @ Ngaio Marsh Theatre, Christchurch - 12/05/2023
14 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Gig Review: Kaylee Bell @ James Hay Theatre, Christchurch - 7/05/2023
09 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Gig Review: Bleeders @ The Embankment Tavern, Christchurch - 6/05/2023
09 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Bad Llamas - Single Review: Can't Take You Anywhere
05 May 2023 // 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.
Read More...
Most Viewed Artists
Latest Galleries
NZ Top 10 Singles
- CUPID (TWIN VERSION)
Fifty Fifty - PEOPLE
Libianca - LAST NIGHT
Morgan Wallen - DAYLIGHT
David Kushner - FLOWERS
Miley Cyrus - KILL BILL
SZA - CALM DOWN
Rema And Selena Gomez - DIE FOR YOU (REMIX)
The Weeknd And Ariana Grande - KARMA
Taylor Swift feat. Ice Spice - BOY'S A LIAR PT. 2
PinkPantheress And Ice Spice
More Content on muzic.net.nz
Google Site Search
100% New Zealand Music
All content on this website is copyright to muzic.net.nz and other respective rights holders. Redistribution of any material presented here without permission is prohibited.
Report A Problem
