New Music Review - ‘Take Me or Leave Me’ by Fool’s Lagoon
Take Me or Leave Me by Fool’s Lagoon was released on the 3rd of October 2025. Cover artwork: Provided/Fool’s Lagoon
Tracking in an upwards direction with the output of their work, and about to embark on their sun-filled South Island tour very shortly, Fool’s Lagoon have awakened all of the right senses with their highly anticipated indie-rock single, Take Me or Leave Me, released yesterday.
Take Me or Leave Me is full of zest accompanied by a whole lot of good vibes, which are all wrapped up into a neat 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Take Me or Leave Me is refined to perfection and endlessly listenable, therefore, it doesn’t feel like it truly ever comes to a complete stop.
The edginess of Take Me or Leave Me ensures each instrument sparks against the next to tell a story, even when the vocals have fallen silent, filling more than just empty space and the way that Fool’s Lagoon nail this with ease is quite deliberately striking.
Fool’s Lagoon have truly amplified their listeners' experience with Take Me or Leave Me and the emphasis on that diversion to a different set of skills massively highlights their seriousness in progressing as a band.
Something that I consistently admire about Fool’s Lagoon is that they keep you guessing what their next move is; they’re not tied down to one set of abilities, they’re always up for new challenges and that is where the magic lies, being able to produce and discover new elements of what is possible.
Take Me or Leave Me is distinguished, pulling out all of the stops to create a supersonic powerhouse of a tune and with the added in deeper vocalised delivery, Take Me or Leave Me is a refreshing, delectable treat.
Tour poster, provided/Fool’s Lagoon
For more Fool’s Lagoon, check out their links below -
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Misty’s Mystique - WTTG Review
New Music Review - ‘Be Mine’ by Makayla
Be Mine by Makayla was released on the 26th of September 2025. Cover artwork: Provided/Sony Music NZ
Be Mine is the bold, new dating-anthem from Māori-American, Hawkes Bay-based RnB queen, Makayla, who has taken the bond that she has with her audience and utilised inspiration from them to write about the unfavourable feeling of wanting to be with somebody who doesn’t dare to put a label on the two of you, despite doing all of the couple-type things together.
Makayla shows off her well-polished voice that glows alongside the presence of compelling hooks and straight-talking expressions that are planted effortlessly into Be Mine, which is also laced with pop romanticism to accompany the topic that comes up more often than not in dating: the (dreaded) complexities of a situationship.
The beats that are neatly paired alongside Makayla’s magic are joyous and exceptionally addictive to hear. Be Mine has been laid out and produced with such flawlessness that it will be the envy of any other upcoming tracks in this realm from different musicians.
During the course of Be Mine, Makayla touches on not only the physicality’s of a situationship type of person, but also the feelings in her own head and wondering out loud the messiness of what is happening in this particular space. With words such as “does it count if I like your time, your hand in mine and your body near?” this is a pivotal turning point during Be Mine, a switch in the internal dialogue of anybody who has been through this tunnel before. It’s not just skin deep; it’s real, it’s raw and it’s a want, not just a need, to have that status pinned down with this particular someone.
Makayla gives this pulsating flair to Be Mine, literally stating “call me the one, or I think I’m done” which amplifies the need for a deeper connection, and shares how intense it can get when you’re finding it unattainable to move towards forever with someone.
There is a great sense of self-authority in shutting the door when you know something is not going to be of value to you in the long-term which Makayla has superbly expressed throughout the creation of Be Mine, and her strength in essentially saying that just because things are good on the figurative ship at times, it doesn’t mean it won’t sink eventually. Especially if the balance is proving to be uneven.
There is a quiet awakening during the outro of the song where Makayla questions whether this person feels her love, and this questioning comes with such strong intention that it makes you feel as though you've got a front row seat to a conversation that might as well be unravelling around you.
Whether Makayla has endured a situationship or has simply been around to witness one from friends or family, the way that she has solidified the track will leave you feeling truly uplifted and as though you deserve better in your own situationship. Power to those who know their worth and can walk away from what is not serving them.
For Makayla to have this incredible intensity within her songwriting is genuinely awe-inspiring and really creates such acknowledgement to what maybe you, as the reader, or someone else you know, is, or has been through.
A big thank you to Sony Music NZ for the opportunity to allow me to write this review!
For more Makayla, make sure to check out all of her links below -
New Music Review - ‘At Sixes and Sevens’ the album by Frank On Tap
At Sixes and Sevens was released on the 26th of September, 2025 by Auckland-based band, Frank On Tap
Album artwork: Provided/Cur8 Entertainment
Everybody, wake up! One of New Zealand’s much-loved alt-rock bands, Frank On Tap, have turned up the dial and bought out their album, At Sixes and Sevens, their newest ten-piece, that was released today.
Flawlessly passionate melodies, with settled instrumentals within At Sixes and Sevens strips the album back, aligning you with memories that will feel as though you are in a room with their music being the only thing that you’re able to focus on. Anything going on outside is non-existent because you’re so lost in the completion of words and moving bodies. A true indulgence to be had.
Frank On Tap take on this role of being able to illuminate the galaxy and make the world seem brighter and clearer with each and every thoughtful, fragile piece they perform.
At Sixes and Sevens is a burst of energy, an integral part of your daily listening routine, a piece of the puzzle that just fits and it’s down to how Frank On Tap bring their technique to the album, sharing all kinds of moments with their listeners that will have you tapping your feet, serious tunes that will have you deep in thought, and of course, the straight fire tunes that will have you wishing the album was endless.
At Sixes and Sevens is individualised by each track and while all of them are Frank On Tap coded, you will find that every song is blended uniquely to the one prior, and the ones upcoming. They've produced such a dynamic masterpiece that at times, you won't believe it's the same band. The skillset they have is wild and fun.
Frank On Tap have mastered the art of meaningful, remarkable wordcraft throughout the album, with wise flair to each line that they have placed into At Sixes and Sevens and as someone who not only connects deeply with good beats, but also has a fascination with stunning lyricism, hearing how Frank On Tap have developed their structured truth of words into this album has now earned them a big 'one of my new favourite bands’ badges.
One of the many standout tracks from the album would have to be Stars with the mighty line “saw you looking out the window, are you shopping for stars?” that for some reason, made my skin crawl with goosebumps. A simple lyrical phrase, however, it feels too romantically sweet to not mention.
Old Man feels quite nostalgic, like the time machine has been invented and we’ve all just popped back into 2016. This track (whether intentional or not) has quite a likeness to the song Don’t Mind Me by Walking On Cars which is such a treat to hear something similar to that in 2025. It holds a lot of magic to it, being able to be performed in such a way that it engages the listener and makes time go backwards, not forwards.
Sleeping Dogs taps into that alternative rock element that Frank On Tap are known for, with envying guitar riffs and gritty vocals that bait you like a hook and keep you on the line the entire time. A delectable treat for your ear canals.
Overrall, Frank On Tap have nailed the entire album with fierce force, magnifying elements and wiseness that goes beyond their young ages.
At Sixes and Sevens gets a solid 100 out of 10. Give it a listen immediately.
For more Frank On Tap, make sure you check out all of their links below -
New Music Review - ‘To Be Like You’ by Amber Carly Williams
To Be Like You is the latest release from Christchurch based singer-songwriter, Amber Carly Williams, released on the 19th of September 2025. Cover artwork provided: Amber’s EPK
Amber Carly Williams has quietly walked back into the scene with her emotionally charged new single, To Be Like You, released at midnight last night.
To Be Like You sees Amber putting her pen to paper, incessantly writing out lyrics that will shift your mindset in your own world as Amber shares how she has had to mentally adapt to her Dad’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and turned it into this melodic-filled understanding of hope, grief and vulnerability, all in one.
Instead of completely running away when the diagnosis came, Amber stepped back slightly but still chose to sing soulfully about her care for her Dad and has ensured that she holds him close, despite the challenges and being afraid of the journey ahead.
Amber and her Dad’s relationship is special - from the stories she has shared on social media about him, and him being the very proud parent at her live performances shows a bond that cannot be broken, even in the face of adversity.
Grief is a highly complex matter, and it adds in even more layers of hardships when you’re coming to terms with it while the person is still living, yet parts of them have gone, or they have forgotten important memories and moments because of a disease that is beyond their control.
Amber speaks eloquently about the impacts that this has had on her and her Dad’s lives in such a respectful, gentle manner that shows maturity and grace throughout the entirety of To Be Like You.
With flecks of Lizzy McAlpine and Holly Humberstone inspiration, guitar work that is undeniably exquisite and vocalisation that fills you with pure emotion, Amber tuned into every part of herself to bring To Be Like You to fruition.
While Amber is able to reflect on this situation, she makes sure to guard herself at the same time, with lyrics such as “but I want to be like you, I know you’re not perfect, but it’s likely that I might be. That scares me sometimes…” and “I feel bad to step away, they’re not you, and it’s nice for a change…” two lines that really puncture your heart.
The acoustic, raw sound of the track turns the energy into something more than just a song that holds extreme depth, it has meaning and so much more to it than a review can describe; just hearing the song is enough to help you understand what’s happening without being there, something Amber effortlessly achieves within her songwriting, past and present.
While To Be Like You is filled with vulnerability, Amber chooses to open the door to that side of her family’s world as though her listeners are the best of friends to her. To be let into that space drives up an element of trust, understanding and non-judgement, something that Amber has, over time, allowed her audience to be let into through her music and her stories.
It’s real, it’s fragile, yet it is encompassed so beautifully into To Be Like You that it strips down every other issue and makes it seem light in comparison to what Amber and her family have gone through. Time stands still while listening to To Be Like You, and I hope that when you listen to the track, that time also ceases to exist for you, as well.
For more Amber, make sure that you check out all of her links below -
Spotify
Bandcamp
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
WTTG - ACW Gig Review - 2022
New Music Review - ‘Gone Rogue’ the EP by ASHY
Gone Rogue is the new EP from ASHY which was released on the 12th September 2025. Photo: Provided from ASHY’s Gone Rogue EPK
Putting the words ‘rebel’ and ‘bad b’ into R&B/pop is ASHY, who has re-emerged following a big few years in her world to unveil her fresh, bold new EP, Gone Rogue.
The EP throws us divine beats and opens the door to seven phenomenal tracks; three of which were previously unreleased. Until now.
Gone Rogue has varying elements to it, with ASHY’s infectious energy and intentional production that has been grafted into this newborn body of work.
Gone Rogue stretches the boundaries of being more than just powerful pop and crosses it with catchy R&B moments and important lyricism that suit ASHY’s vibe quintessentially.
ASHY has paved her way having worked internationally to create Gone Rogue, with recording having taken place across various cities such as Nashville, LA, Sydney and Auckland. This showcases the strengths that ASHY has as she has been to be able to work with a multitude of people in the industry and she has also proven that she can create effectively, no matter where she lands in the world. This speaks to not only her character, but also how she can easily adapt and stay true to herself and her powerhouse sound.
During the very intense track, You Don’t Know Me, Darling, ASHY speaks monumental truths about feeling judged for being of New Zealand and Southern Asian descent (which is a major red flag - being judged for your culture). ASHY doesn’t hold back in saying how she feels to those who have taken the time to make their dissatisfaction known, and that is a major strength of hers; she stands up for herself, who she is and won’t accept anything less than the kindness and accolades that she so rightly deserves.
While listening to Girls We Got It, I found myself standing up straight and walking down the street with this natural confidence that usually does not come easy to me.
Something about the way that ASHY sings from the depths of her soul is so empowering, and it will make you feel proud to be a woman (or anyone, really) who is able to exist in the same space and time that ASHY is. The credence in Girls We Got It is of the highest level, and I am here for every lyric, and every moment that these 2 minutes and 34 seconds tends to embody.
Gucci and Louis struts with ornate flair - it feels like a luxury to even be graced with this track. Though it doesn’t scream ‘designer’ like the brand names in the title of the song, this track is of top tier quality itself and indicates that ASHY is unstoppable with her capabilities.
To be able to create something that is so meaningful to you that actually helps to fill some gaps in others’ lives such as the way that Gone Rogue does… That speaks immense volumes on how ASHY has built such a quality connection with herself and those who adore her.
The collaboration with Jarrod Gipson (a highly talented Nashville rapper) on Sweeter adds another layer of quite literal sweetness to Gone Rogue, putting a delicately placed rap moment into the EP, which ties it together with a cherry on top. Sweeter is a catchy, melodic force to be reckoned with.
ASHY and Beyond The Beat collaborated to bring us a special cover of All This Time by well-loved New Zealand band, Drax Project. The way they spun it around and made it uniquely contrast to the original is highly admirable and has certainly made the Drax Project lads proud.
Gone Rogue truly is the EP of the season, and while ASHY is small in terms of stature, her sound is mighty, making her a singer-songwriter that expands her reach across the globe with such ease.
ASHY is determined to be recognised for music that shows her talent and reflects her refusal to take BS, and I personally have major respect for anyone who can have an attitude likes hers and can express it with a decent amount of dignity. To this I say, well done ASHY, for being a relatable, uplifting person.
Gone Rogue is available to stream on all platforms from today.
For more ASHY, make sure you check out her social media links below -
Spotify
Apple Music
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
ASHY x WTTG - Radio Interview
New Music Review - ‘Boundary Issues’ the album by The RVMES
Boundary Issues is the fourth album released by Auckland-based, The RVMES (pronounced ‘The Rooms’), released September 5th, 2025.
Cover artwork from The RVMES’ Facebook page
Bounding out of the studio, The RVMES have let us into their world once again with the release of their much anticipated fourth album, Boundary Issues, that dropped at midnight last night.
Drenched in this intense wave of heat, Boundary Issues puts a little (large) pep in your step and opens you up to every possibility imaginable.
The RVMES have this real strength of bridging the gap between clean and sensual - which makes it hard to peel yourself away from them. They’re playful, passionate and sometimes the element of The RVMES’ music can be well, downright fierce.
The RVMES are well-established, with playing many shows and releasing a generous catalogue of music since 2018 in which their effortless blending of indie, reggae, rock and slightly pop vibes commands the listener to be drawn closer, without a hitch.
The RVMES’ love of upping their musical abilities over the years showcases that what they are creating is what they are continuing to push forward for long-term, it’s not just a moment for them, it’s career progression and there are no barriers that they are unable to break down.
While listening to Boundary Issues, I felt myself being flown away to an island, where the waves were crashing against the shoreline, however, the music from The RVMES was being carried through and was the only thing that I could hear, and focus on, nothing more.
This album genuinely takes you to a space that you ordinarily wouldn’t be thinking about in your day-to-day life, and that is quite a reflective and healing feeling, to be able to be quickly drawn away from reality in such a way like how they’ve achieved with this beautiful body of work.
Eclectic and techno-toned in some parts, Boundary Issues scores largely high up in the rankings of this weeks’ releases as it flows nicely into each song, it has melodic, but cheeky moments and is able to stand on its own two feet.
Inside the walls of Boundary Issues, there are layered beats that are logical with a blend of musical intent that keeps you wondering what The RVMES are about to surprise you with next and that is evidently a moment that they were going for - endless surprises.
Every hook, every bass line, every percussion piece is spectacularly curated to be anything but your ordinary listen, which truly elevates the potential of this album being heard and interpreted from many varying perspectives.
Some notable tracks from Boundary Issues include Cold Steel for the intoxicating guitar work that comes into play close to the end of the track, it melts into it perfectly, making you completely solidified to the ground in that moment. The guitar work is flawlessly represented on this track and deserves its moment in this review.
Ecstasy plays into this summertime festival vibe, the way the vocalism announces its importance on this song, alongside lyricism that pulls you into a tight grip (“I don’t need much, just your touch is enough for me. No denying we have the sweetest chemistry”, “sunny days on my mind is what I want, don’t have a plan, even though I’m fully grown”). This is my personal favourite song off of Boundary Issues, for sure.
Every track has its own distinction from the one before, or after it and ensures this is a phenomenal fourth release for The RVMES. Make sure you go and give it a listen immediately. A minute further without hearing Boundary Issues is a minute completely wasted.
To follow along with The RVMES, click the links below -
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
Bandcamp/Merch
The RVMES (Edwin) x WTTG - Interview - 2022
New Music Review - ‘Time’ the EP by FINDMYKEYS
Time is the new EP from FINDMYKEYS, released on the 1st August 2025. Cover artwork provided by FINDMYKEYS
The tectonic plates are shaking because new Christchurch rock-band, FINDMYKEYS, have recently released their debut EP, Time, one for the true rockers who love an energetic party in their ears, and I’m stoked to have the opportunity to review Time for you.
Specifically selected beats, matched with grungy vocalism that gives you a great sense of being at a venue like A Rolling Stone, for example, helps the letting loose continue in your life, vibes flowing out of every section of Time.
While FINDMYKEYS have not long jumped into the local music scene, being able to take ‘Time’ to find their sound and bring out an EP at the very beginning of their journey into music is something that is not being seen as often from newer artists these days.
That sets them off on the right foot, allowing them to share more of the skills that they can offer as a band. The more music out, the better I personally find as a listener as it grabs people in when they are able to hear more than one or two songs. It brings out diversity in what they can create, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Time.
Time is dynamic, a solid voyage for FINDMYKEYS to delve into. Epic, explosive stories told on the EP, which have been executed to perfection to tell what needs to be told.
Exploring themes of loss, recovery, reconnection, among many other topics that quite literally, have taken FINDMYKEYS ‘Time’ to pull together, the drop is impeccably decent and showcases the tight playing skills that the band have been able to generate since starting up in 2023.
While Time may not be for everybody, the evidence of hard work is all over this release, and FINDMYKEYS have certainly nailed the flow of what rock music is.
For more FINDMYKEYS, make sure that you check out their socials below -
New Music Review - ‘The//Glow’, the album by Mild Orange
The//Glow, the newest album from London-based, New Zealand band, Mild Orange, was released on the 8th of August 2025. Cover artwork: Josh Mehrtens. Source: Mild Orange’s Facebook
Mild Orange have never fit snuggly into one singular box for their music, but they have always challenged themselves to delve into greater depths and share their strengths in storytelling with each delivery they have openly given.
Having just come out with their fourth album, The//Glow, Mild Orange are showcasing that they are constantly within that headspace of ultimate creation, whilst incorporating their London-based lives heavily into this new era.
While their previous 2022 album, Looking for Space, was a remarkable release, The//Glow steps it up further, and competes with top spot for my personal favourite of their albums.
While writing this review, there was a sense of calmness flowing throughout my body, a feeling that Mild Orange flawlessly provide every single time… A feeling that can’t be touched, however, it can still be embraced in all of the ways.
THE//GLOW is an embodiment of eloquently patient work that unquestionably holds a lot of meaning for the band, and it is a field of tales that will figuratively lift you off the ground.
Moonglade is the first track to charm your ears from The//Glow, and the scene is set super softly, and for lack of a better word, it is quite the glower of an opener. It is graceful, almost polite, in a way. It’s as though you’re surrounded by your favourite people, sitting around a bonfire at the beach, enjoying a drink and watching the waves rolling in and out. The stillness of this song is grand.
Mood is absolutely a Mood and you can read my full review of that one here.
Rubicon is an ultimate, fresh, Spring-feeling moment on the album, it sweeps you away with such perfection, you won’t know what has come over you. The guitar work on this one is truly phenomenal, so much so that if you don’t play an instrument, you’re going to be inclined to start learning something after hearing this one.
Silver Star is where the genre veers in an ever so-slight country direction, something that may come as a nice surprise for long-term Mild Orange fans. It will take you to the ranch and make you say, “Gidey up!” So, put on your cowboy boots, and a hat, and let’s go.
Right or Wrong feels natural, like it was made to fit right in on The//Glow. It is a relatively underrated song that should be played non-stop. A little bit old-timey, in a way, yet it still holds a place in terms of magical creation.
Searching For takes on an indie-rock element that has an epic emphasis on the drums, creating this insane atmosphere, where the vibes are high and only keep getting higher. This one is for the dreamers, the creators, and the ones who just love to be present. It takes me back to hearing Mild Orange perform this on a narrowboat in London last summer. The memories for this one are locked in, and I bet anyone who listens to this will be able to create their own wonderful memories to it, too.
Welcome Back (To The//Glow) showcases every element of instrument that is being played, every lyric sung, and shares such a breadth of warmth that will make you feel alive. It’s a perfect top-tier middle of the album tune that you can sink into with ease.
My Light has surprising electronic moments to it, opening with such unique soundwaves that almost bring you back to your school days where you would go to a disco and dance the night away without a worry in the world. It’s ultimately really funky and a fun stop on The//Glow tour.
Out in the Distance arrives fully adorned in power, offering a sense of being grounded, but at the same time, still being aware of where you are, but enjoying it. A moment off from your overthinking mind, letting the day be erased away. It’s like watching a sunset from the top of a hill. That feeling of adrenaline and hope being bought back to you.
There’s No Rush is yet another serene piece of art. A gentle reminder to breathe. A reminder that quite literally There’s No Rush. This one really speaks for itself, therefore, doesn’t require much of an explanation.
Drive Character is going to be one that goes off at Mild Orange’s live shows. They’ve saved one of the best for last with this album. It’s full of immense energy, and you can taste the vibrancy coming from all angles.
Overall, The//Glow has a song for each and every individual, and it challenges the ‘norms’, so to speak, of sticking to one genre. For me, this album feels like looking at Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ painting - the happiness it brings is insurmountable and has endless intriguing points looped into it.
For more Mild Orange, make sure you check out all of their links below -
Spotify
Apple Music
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
Looking for Space - Review - 2022
New Music Review - ‘Meet Me at the Beach’ by Rachel Louise
Meet Me at the Beach was released on the 25th of July 2025. Cover art: Provided by Rachel
Wash away your worries from the week just gone and relax with your favourite beverage this Friday (maybe a pomegranate margarita?) because Rachel Louise has lovingly released her melodious new single, aptly titled Meet Me at the Beach today that will have a great hold on you.
With the new season of hit Amazon Prime Video series, The Summer I Turned Pretty, having just aired its third and final season, the timing for the song could not be more perfect as it is inspired by watching main character, Belly Conklin’s journey of growth from teenage years right into adulthood where she is challenged with falling in love with different boys, the grief of losing a loved one, and gradually going through her college years.
Meet Me at the Beach is a quiet star in the universe that deserves to be turned into the sun as the way that Rachel’s harmonious vocals and exquisitely written lyrics come together creates such magic. The song is paired with the most serene music figuratively humming in the background and Meet Me at the Beach really hits a chord that you didn’t know could be struck.
Being a beach girl herself, Rachel resonates with the characteristics surrounding the tales at the Cousins Beach house in both the books and the show, which is really special that she has been able to create a song with such a forcefield of passion behind it.
Meet Me at the Beach makes you want to fall in love, the way that Belly has fallen for Conrad or Jeremiah (maybe with less drama) as it takes you to that place where nothing, or nobody else exists, except for this one person that you can’t get out of your mind. For a song to have the ability to take you to that level of hope and emotion showcases how much devotion that Rachel has poured into ensuring that this one is an incredibly compelling way to put something you care deeply about out into the world.
Rachel has a goal of getting the author and creator of the show, Jenny Han, to hear this perfectly stunning new track and has launched a social media campaign to achieve just that. Any help that can be given to get Jenny to hear this song, or any of the cast of The Summer I Turned Pretty would be greatly appreciated by Rachel and other lovers of this track.
Alongside the Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo additions to the soundtrack of the show, I feel as though if Jenny were to do a spin-off series and it had Belly in it, that Meet Me at the Beach would be a humbling track to include as it slots in so comfortably into the storyline.
Meet Me at the Beach feels like literally putting your feet in the sand on a hot summer’s day and feeling the freshness of the salt air on your face, and that is what makes this one particularly welcoming to my playlist. I can’t stop repeating it and likely never will. Thank you, Rachel, for creating such a masterpiece of art, this track is so beyond beautifully presented.
Follow along with Rachel’s journey at the links below -
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
Rachel x WTTG Interview
New Music Review - ‘Extraterrestrial’ by Tealskie
L-R (back): Bex, Tim. L-R (front): Chay, Elliot.
Extraterrestrial by Tealskie was released on the 17th July 2025. Photo credit: Armand Le Roux
Your new favourite band are here and ready to rock.
A fresh Tealskie (pronounced Teal-Sky) song? Get out of town, because this one is definitively punchy, with a phenomenally smooth sound, almost as though you’re about to spread the best peanut butter you’ve ever had on toast.
Slowly, but surely, Tealskie have begun to dominate the local music scene, with their ever-so kind personalities, and proficient skills that tend to make everyone fall for them as a band, and I am completely here for it.
The well-respected Christchurch foursome have given us a kick with their latest release, Extraterrestrial, which has absolutely nothing to do with aliens (no, that is not a reason to not listen to the track, however). Extraterrestrial is a really zesty, vibey track to get your body moving in more ways than one.
The gateway to Extraterrestrial draws you in with its idiosyncratic force, like it is wrapping its full arms around you and you’re not able to escape, and with this song, why would you want to flee, anyway? It’s warm, and it has come from a planet that you’ve probably never been to: Tealskie-Universe. That must be such a significantly cool place to reside, I’d imagine.
With this dynamic, flavourful release from the band, you can hear that they have poured out every single ounce of energetic astronomical presence, so to speak, and evidently Tealskie have everything under their belt to offer; so much so, that they could rule the world at this point and they are well on their way to doing just that. Even if it just means ruling musicially.
So, what makes Extraterrestrial so unique? Well, for starters, it brings the heat with the most sublime beats, it has a blend of artistic punk that leads you towards the likes of Paramore meets Red Hot Chili Peppers but also holds this spectacular Tealskie touch that truly sets them apart.
Extraterrestrial is a track that brews directly in your brain, unlike your morning coffee, a track so hot that even the most heat protectant cup can’t hold it. It will quite literally spice up your life more than the Spice Girls ever did. What other descriptive and uniquely weird sentences could I write to describe Extraterrestrial? Loads, but we could be here all evening.
Fascinatingly, Tealskie don’t depend on being one-genre-focused, they jump into the studio and just do what feels right, there is not always a guaranteed rhyme or reason to how they create, and that tends to really distinguish them from the crowd.
Tealskie are fresh, with an abundance of unreal aptitude, and this comes out loudly in Extraterrestrial which is a truly top tier new release, and I’m glad that they’ve thrown this one at us so that listeners can come out of their winter hibernation for a cheerful time with them.
Follow along with Tealskie at the links below to hear/watch more from them -
New Music Review - ‘A Day’ by Jack Robertson
A Day by Jack Robertson was released on the 9th July 2025. Cover: via Jack’s Instagram.
Jack is back. That’s right! Jack Robertson is back in New Zealand after spending time in LA recording for his upcoming EP and he has bought back with him a mellowed, but impressively exquisite tearjerker for your week ahead.
A Day is a harrowing story, with purposefully placed lyricism that feels like an understanding of the heart, even through the grief of life, which Jack pulls flawlessly from his bag of magical music tricks with this new, sombre release.
A Day holds an evidential amount of sincerity to Jack and it touches the soul in a way that you would not expect it to. It feels like a classic, a sweet serenity between the lines of what sadness the song tends to hold. A special dedication of sorts, with some eerily heartfelt moments that yearn to be heard.
Grief of all sorts is unfortunately universal, but it can be understood through the power of music. It can help you feel less solo in your woes, something Jack has really showcased in A Day, and I really enjoy this element of feeling as though anyone who can relate to this song doesn’t have to go the journey by themselves.
Jack has intricately utilised every ounce of care to bring A Day to life, with lyrics hitting beyond the mark, such as heartbreakingly vulnerable structures such as “I wish the car didn't start that night / I wish it pulled more to the right / and I'd got the call that you were fine / every little choice you chose worth every little stick and poke / and it would take a day” on a scale of one to ouch, I’m guessing that this one would have been a painful write, and each time that an artist writes a song like this, it says a lot about how they are able to express themselves, and the ability to be vulnerable, which reminds listeners that no matter who you are, everyone goes through those hardships and moments of loss.
Whether the track written is personal, or fictional, it still has that pull that brings listeners in because it hits those raw nerves, and sometimes, just sometimes, we want to hear things that can make us feel those emotions, and I feel that A Day really serves that purpose.
Check out Jack’s journey at the links below (and give him a follow!) -
New Music Review - ‘Live Today’ by The Transits
Live Today by The Transits was released on the 20th June 2025. Cover art: Provided by The Transits
A thrilling adventure awaits as The Transits are here to showcase their pop-power-punk-filled track, Live Today, which takes you on this momentous voyage far away, in which you will feel that the winter coldness has been locked out and the heat has been turned up full bore.
Upon first hearing Live Today, I felt a complete rush of exhilaration, my energy levels rising to the highest number that you could think of, filling the space between my ears with vivacious nostalgic-feeling moments.
The Transits have put a lot of vivacity into Live Today, fulfilling the purpose of creating a fast-paced tune that listeners can be indulged in, however at the same time, is easy to follow and combines some great values that The Transits hold as a band.
The basis of Live Today is an uplifting one: the aim of the song is to inspire others to embrace moments and give everything that you’re able to give to the good situations, all the while making sure that you enjoy the ride on the racetrack of what we call life.
The Transits climb the ladder two steps at a time: showcasing their range of exuberance each release, with Live Today at the top of my playlist this week, and it is very easy to hear why straight off the bat. It’s funky, it pairs well with my daily dose of pepsi max and gives this sense of believing in yourself and sharing the greatness of moments that should be lived.
With a punchy, fun video featuring local comedic legend, Tom Sainsbury, helping to piece the release together, Live Today certainly has earnt the accolades that it has received, and will continue to receive, across the board.
All in all, this release from The Transits is memorable, lively and with more music on the horizon from the band, they’re set to continue paving their way towards a big comeback and genuinely, they are already doing a tremendous job of it.
For more on The Transits, make sure that you check out their links below -
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
Bandcamp
The Transits x WTTG - Feature Friday
New Music Review - ‘Tip of My Tongue’ by emerson
Tip of My Tongue by emerson was released on 30th May 2025. Cover artwork from emerson’s Spotify
Sending a shockwave of talent throughout the cosmos is Auckland-based artist, emerson, with her sincere new single, Tip of My Tongue, which is two minutes and fifty seconds of pure essential allurement.
emerson delightfully emerged onto the scene in 2024, taking out the title of The Rockquest Solo-Duo winner, something that evidently wasn’t a question for the judges to award her that title, and after discovering emerson’s music recently, it is very easy for me to hear how deserving she is of this win.
Tip of My Tongue seeks to tell a story that is stronger than any teen love story, with emerson proving her maturity and wiseness beyond her years with the way that the track delves into topics that are raw, carefully tread around, and not talked about often enough. (“If I could take all the stitches out, would you notice my, notice my scars? We’ve always had an obsession with stars, so I’ll love, love you from afar”)
Tip of My Tongue is clearly open to interpretation; however, I hear it as a sad love song that occurs from the notion of realising that a relationship potentially isn’t the best next step in a situation as the scars may run deeper by generating something, rather than not starting something. There is a sort of strength in the pain coming through each well-thought-out lyric that emerson allows to flow from her vibrant vocalism that tangles you up and leads the intensity inside to become unblocked.
Tip of My Tongue is accompanied with level-headed lyricism, remarkable harmonies and ethereal strums from an acoustic guitar that features prominently and shifts the emotion of the song to an even higher level to engage and tunes you into what the song is trying to convey. Pure honesty and heavy in depth.
emerson’s music has this traditional charm that is like a lighthouse, directing you towards the land, allowing you to find the lightness in a situation, even when it feels like you’re lost in the water and the boat is sinking. The lighthouse in this metaphor is an inviting one, where emerson is saying “the door is open for you when you get here, let’s talk about this feeling that we have in common, it will be okay because we can confide in each other and be the other one who understands.”
All in all, love lost can always be found again (even if it’s not the same person) and that put simply, is pure magic.
For more emerson, check out the links below -
New Music Review - ‘Ends’ the EP by Bleach
Ends is the new EP release from Bleach, released on the 2nd May 2025. Cover artwork: Supplied / Bleach’s EPK
Ends is the new creative forcefield of an EP from the minds of Wellington-based trio, Bleach, transcending a new form of space in terms of alt-rock releases.
Upon first hearing Ends, my brain nearly exploded with enthusiasm for the emergence on the scene from Bleach, having been able to hear their promising potential from the very second the opening track Patterns played through the speakers of my phone.
Made up of David Jiang (vocals), Christian Fawcett (lead guitar) and Jacob Thornton (drums), Bleach have gained some incredible achievements playing with the likes of Flaxxies, Frank on Tap, Lunar Intruder and Castaway, just to name a few, within just a couple of years.
Having emerged onto the scene in 2022, and releasing their first track, Superdown, in 2023, Bleach have quickly got their name out there, impressively playing the coolest venues across the country, and amassing a good number of monthly listeners on Spotify, which shows that we should stand up and hear the passion that comes out when they are performing, and through their striking recordings.
Extensively impressive electric guitar work flows throughout the body of the EP, with enticing hooks that draw your attention to every strum, every movement and every echo that playfully opens up your eardrums. Alongside this, you’ve got a mix of softly blended vocalism that is effortlessly changed into robust rock in some tracks, which I feel is an advanced skill that takes a lot of practise to perfect. Gluing it all together, the percussion literally hits with undoubtable enthusiasm, and helps the Bleach lads master the greatest sound with their debut EP.
Ends is the soundtrack to all of the reasons and seasons, and while it may be limited to just five tracks, it shares raw, diverse storytelling through the songs, giving you a large taster of what Bleach’s strengths are and continue to be.
Welcome to the Gig’s favourite track off the EP? Ironically, it is the title track, Ends.
For more Bleach, make sure you check out all of their socials below -
New Music Review - ‘A New Title’ by BEX
A New Title by BEX was released on the 2nd May 2025. Cover artwork: Provided by BEX, created by Scarlett Art
Emerging singer-songwriter from Auckland, BEX, has just dropped A New Title, which has a luscious melodic forefront, soaking with dreamy pop vocals and heroically stunning pianism that blows the song wide open.
With words that will hit the sweet spot with listeners, BEX gears up to let her ardour come out in A New Title.
Dripping in sweetness, A New Title embodies a serene flow of BEX’s music, allowing her to express herself tenderly and with grace.
A New Title is filled with a positive ambience that holds you close, while maintaining a thorough walk-through of the story that BEX is giving us a taster of. BEX has this feeling of making you blush while running through fields of flowers specifically sunflowers that are taller than you, but they still let the sun shine over you.
A New Title was inspired by a new chapter in the world of love, sharing the fears of uncertainty of where the road may take you, entwining metaphors to mask over insecure feelings, and to keep a comforting mindset, which is approvingly showcased throughout the track.
BEX has a comfort about her that comes across in the way that she presents herself in her music and expresses, with clear dignity, what is being conveyed.
A New Title holds space for creativity, using the likes of vintage instrumentals, which takes the song into a completely different section of time, making it quirky and allowing it to soak in with an array of ages who come across BEX’s honey-like vibe.
All in all, A New Title has a lot of emotion and wonder to it, making it an absolute charmer and I can see the potential for her to go further in her musical conquests.
For more on BEX, follow the links below -
New Music Review - ‘Acetone’ by Coast Arcade
Acetone by Coast Arcade was released on the 4th April, 2025. Cover artwork by Cheesin.
Coast Arcade have been doing what they can to carve their name in the solid concrete walls of the music scene these past few years, grasping the attention of big publishers such as Rolling Stone Australia/New Zealand, and even the love of international listeners with their solid sound and immaculate shredding skills.
Impressively, while Coast Arcade are still sort of near the beginning of their careers, they are forging kilometres ahead with epic force, dropping impressive track after impressive track, the most recent being the cooled-rock smash, Acetone, which has already amassed a splendid listening crowd.
Acetone dives into the rock side of Coast Arcade, a genre move that I believe they have been leaning into more and more with the music they have been creating lately. A move that is both bold, powerful and mighty enjoyable. Rock suits the Coast Arcade energy to the max and I hope that they are going to continue along this pathway.
With sturdy guitar hooks, highly perfected drumming and dominant vocals, combined with a story that is stimulating, Acetone is one of Coast Arcade’s top tier tracks, showcasing the levels that they are constantly stepping up on and bringing this winning energy with them.
Acetone has this lively momentum about it and everything just makes pure sense.
In a way, it feels as though even though you’re stuck in some storm of sorts with feelings that you can’t control, even if the situation is bad for you, the clouds will eventually part after the storm and this song has been placed perfectly to express that kind of feeling internally.
The static electricity bringing in the song almost feels as though you’re about to be bought back to life after this situation that Coast Arcade are bringing to light eventually ends. This is how Acetone feels to me, however, there are many ways to determine how this song will actually make individuals feel and this is just one opinion of many.
Coast Arcade have always been under the ‘ones to watch’ category, however, trust me when I say, you need to jump on board and coast with them now, because they are very close to skyrocketing into the international media scene in an explicitly enormous way, and you’ll be sorry you didn’t get to be one of their OGs earlier.
-
For more Coast Arcade, check out their social media below -
New Music Review - ‘Good God!’ by Rachel Leo
Good God! is the latest from Rachel Leo. The track was released on the 25th October 2024. Photo credit: Rachel’s EPK.
Rachel Leo is back in the spotlight with her flaming drop, Good God! and it is the ultimate, heavily empowering track that you didn’t know that you needed… Especially right before the summertime hits.
A delightful chunk of post situation breakdown feels, Good God! reels with excitement for the deliciousness of the future and takes you to the harbour of possibility, with strong, girl-power vibes where Rachel delivers this optimistic view on situations ending.
Whether that be a relationship breakdown, or other circumstances such as friends, family, or even a job melting into the background - basically, things that no longer serve you or add any value to your life, Rachel acknowledges that she deserves more than what was on offer originally.
Rachel flirts with the idea of driving away and feeling like the ultimate weight has been lifted off her shoulders, and for that, I applaud her for giving her bravery the space to breathe and letting it be shown to others who may need to hear the inspiration in her phenomenal words of wisdom.
The upbeat mood of Good God! sends out an electrical heat with the opening of the song which shines an emphasis on being the best version of yourself.
Oozing with confidence, Rachel shares that she’s on the way to a better place, even after being begged to stay in which she doesn’t let someone else allow her independence to be taken away that easily.
Leaning into the notion of being able to change and adapt to a future without negative situations in your life, Rachel punches the air with her tranquil melodies and rather insightful, enchanting glow.
Good God! will seamlessly whisk away your breath, allowing you to take your own “credit where credits due” in your personal life.
A song for all ages and all genders, Good God! rises above and holds the highest of standards for New Zealand pop music at this moment in time.
To follow along with Rachel’s journey, head on over to the links below -
New Music Review - ‘Mood’ by Mild Orange
Mood by Mild Orange was released on the 25th October 2024. Cover art from Mild Orange’s Bandcamp page.
Please remain calm, because Mild Orange have dropped a cool-cool tune that will have you singing la la la. In case you haven’t heard, Mood is actually an entire mood in itself.
Reflecting a direct, euphoric sense of self-confidence matched with a music video that portrays not having one single care in the world, Mood by Mild Orange is a definitive, clearly marked hit that has just swung itself into the music world in order to make your weekend even more gratifying.
Mood will exclusively be running on full volume in your brain all day, every day, for the next year as it has immaculate smoothness that has been produced and mixed down to pure perfection.
The lightness of Mood showcases the path that the band are carving to share with the world that, despite their wildly on-par previous releases, they can keep upping the ante and adding more to their blissful soundwaves that capture and engage the ears of millions every minute of every day.
Speaking fondly of the environment they find themselves in, and about their move to little ole London town, Mild Orange win the hearts with their mellowed out blissful lyrics that never fail to seek a home in listeners’ souls.
The aura that Mild Orange generate is one that seeks to illuminate and plaster the faces of those who have the absolute pure joy of encountering Mood. You may as well be watching the Northern Lights in their brightest form while listening to Mood, because the song will strike you with the silkiest segway into a new set of releases from the remarkably loved band that is Mild Orange.
While we may not have any idea what they have in store for us next, it feels invigorating to be on this expedition with them and I for one, certainly cannot wait for the next chapter of these talented lads.
New Music Review - ‘Amsterdam’ by Zoë Vera
Amsterdam is the latest track from Zoë Vera, emerging singer-songwriter based in Auckland. Released on the 25th October 2024, this number hits wildly with raw emotion. Photo credit: Zoë’s EPK.
We’ve all been there, a place that we want to escape to and potentially never come back from, and I bet that in your head, you can picture this one particular place that aligns with your dreams, your values and who you are as a person.
In Zoë Vera’s case, she has taken us all on this journey of wanting to escape to Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most magical cities. Moving away from everything you’ve adjusted to, and love, seems like the only option sometimes, and Zoë’s velvety-soft vocals take you towards the destination of her lived-in reality that was once in her childhood.
The beginning of Amsterdam has Zoë questioning what she has done wrong to deserve a bad day, or tumultuous space in her life, and she just wants to escape, and break away from what she currently knows in the craziness of Auckland life. This is something I feel that a lot of listeners will be able to relate to because we all know how hectic life can truly be sometimes and we don’t always have the ability to go somewhere else to ease up feelings and issues, even as much as we try to visualise ourselves out of certain situations.
Having moved from the Netherlands when she was a mere eight years old, Zoë showcases her craving for home, and to feel like she might gain some comfort for a while. Familiarity is such an important internal pleasure, and Amsterdam essentially shares that it is not something to be ashamed of when you are in this mindset.
The acoustic feeling to Amsterdam rallies around listeners, bringing them into the bubble that Zoë is expressing, allowing small amounts of intimate, raw emotion to be shared with nothing but beautiful truths from her internal dialogue, something Zoë does with ease, and extraordinary bravery.
Amsterdam embraces you like the warmest, long-held hug from the ones you enjoy the company of the most; it is special, magnetic and really suits the launch of the vibe of Zoë’s latest single.
-
For more on Zoë, you can follow her musical journey (and travel journey) at the below links -
New Music Review - ‘Democracy Manifest’ the EP by Monk Seals
Democracy Manifest was released on the 1st August 2024 by Christchurch rock lads, Monk Seals. Cover credit: Monk Seals EPK.
Solidifying their rock sound with a new EP that has just dived off the cliffs into the waters of the Christchurch music scene comes Monk Seals’ new movement, Democracy Manifest.
Tackling big tracks that will heighten your senses comes the second EP from these four who have been working over five years to demonstrate that they aren’t little rockers from the ‘burbs of Sumner, but a band that mean business, dutifully pursuing their thought-provoking, unapologetic tunes.
Democracy Manifest obliterates their self-titled EP; showcasing the clearness of their successful careers forming effortlessly in front of them and their ever-engaged audience.
Monk Seals are riding the wave between old school rock and mid-surf that could easily be likened to 80s/90s bands that take you on the rollercoaster of a very palatable ride that can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime that you please.
By now, surely you would have heard the electrical tune, Feel For You, which ignites Democracy Manifest, and you can read my review of this track right here for more of my thoughts about it.
Harmonica harmoniously pulls you into this desirable mode of tranquillity that will illuminate all of your wishes at the very beginning of Democracy Manifest with the star-shooting Dirtbag pushing the EP wide open. The country-esque rock deluge instantly comes into play with this one, making the zest from the fruit bowl of the Monk Seals drip down the walls and land in your waiting ears. Marvellous.
Black Widow Woman stands on its own two feet, forcing the boundaries that the world sets in place to be torn down. The way that the Monk Seals can portray their thoughts tactically is admirable and a testament to the values the lads hold true to themselves.
Democracy Manifest is loaded to the brim with five songs (two previously released and three unreleased) that are bound to tickle your fancy, so drop everything you are doing and run it up on your MP3 player. Oh, sorry. I forgot, this isn’t the 2000s. Monk Seals just take me back to the good old days, as they may for you too.
Get moving, because while this heat will last for a long time, the Monk Seals are likely already gearing up to make more shifts in the world of music that will continuously surprise listeners for as long as they can.
For more on the Monk Seals, you can check out their social media at the links below -