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.
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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 -
New Music Review - ‘Caffeine High’ by Marmalade
Caffeine High was released by Marmalade on the 2nd August, ahead of their debut EP. Cover artwork created by Bethanny Britten, provided by Marmalade.
Did you pay your $4.50 for your Caffeine High today? The coffee beans (or shall I say koffiebonen?), are roasting hot with this delightfully quirky, therapeutic drop from well-respected Auckland duo, Marmalade.
A precursor to what is to come with their forthcoming, debut EP that is due to be in flight within the not-so-distant future, Caffeine High dedicates a space in time to where working in a coffee shop meant more than just being a barista for Jemilah, who is one half of Marmalade.
Fair warning: Caffeine High may teach you how to become an untrained therapist, unintentional eavesdropper or at the very least, give you an insight into what it is like to be one, or all of these things.
Addictively fun, Caffeine High is an enticing piece of work that will make you take your earbuds out to hear the local coffee shop gossip (after you’ve listened to Caffeine High at least 50 times, of course). You may be riddled with stories of heartbreak, you may see two people falling in love, or you just may hear something that’ll make you laugh so much that you spit your coffee everywhere.
As a nation of coffee snobs, I feel as though Caffeine High will be appreciated and well-received. That’s a big win.
Both Jemilah and Koen have their chance to show off their soothing talents in the journey of Caffeine High, which highlights their differences, but also brings them together to create the best brew imaginable.
Marmalade are no strangers at brightening up their audiences’ lives - whether that be with the pristine tracks they drop or their immaculate endurance to grace the stage with their presence whenever possible.
Caffeine High is one small step in the right direction for Marmalade.
To check out more Marmalade, have a peek at their socials, listed below -
New Music Review - ‘Moneypenny’ by LA Women
LA Women released their new track, Moneypenny, on the 26th July 2024. Cover artwork: LA Women’s Facebook.
Indie-pop trio, LA Women may have left New Zealand to explore the sensation of the world, however, they haven’t dare forgotten their musical roots, with their fire burning brightly with the release of Moneypenny.
With banging shots rivalling other forms of indie-pop, LA Women drive the force easily home with their slicked back sound and dynamic oomph. Moneypenny is enriched with empowerment with top tier energy that will seep into your bones, causing an outbreak. An outbreak of wanting to move your body, that is.
Figuratively speaking, performing under the chimes of Big Ben (having relocated to London), LA Women have constructed this lavish little number to impress all with the flowing waterfall effect of Moneypenny; the song drops the heat with the beats and ensures that you won’t be throwing the vibes away.
While LA Women have successfully primed and perfected their previous releases, Moneypenny gets top of the class points as the succulence has one hell of a grasp on you which is initiated from the very second the first music droplet enters into your atmosphere.
Moneypenny really speaks for itself, so to conclude the review, I would encourage you to pop up your Spotify (or wherever you find your music) and chuck this track on full volume to enjoy the essence of what is on offer.
For more LA Women, make sure to check out their social media below -
New Music Review - ‘Neighbourhoods’ by And$um and Violete
Neighbourhoods was released on the 5th July 2024. Cover artwork provided by And$um.
Two powerhouse tonics join forces to create this flexible, double-genre infused collaboration crossing paths with both classic jazz and low-fi hip-hop which comes in the form of a new, slick track, Neighbourhoods, in which And$um and Violete have created this depth of a masterpiece to be eaten up.
Transitioning without issue between the two genres, Neighbourhoods showcases a new meaning - that you can put two totally different things together and if they blend right, they can work immaculately as a team which is a true testament to both genres and the artists featured on this track.
Neighbourhoods tells the story of stepping off of a flight, right into a new city and essentially having that splash of feeling overwhelmed by a new place that hits you as soon as you are there, out in the open. Like many other travellers (and for me personally having moved abroad just under 10 months ago), Neighbourhoods gives a clear understanding of what has been experienced or what you can expect to experience when that fresh, new air hits you.
The grind from And$um and Violete’s collaboration is inevitably obvious - the way that Neighbourhoods fits together like a puzzle piece that was missing from the local music scene, filling in those gaps of difference so uniquely and powerfully is highly admirable.
With beats that will take you to the high heavens and the light-hitting vocalism from both parties, And$um and Violete have ensured that there comes a part of Neighbourhoods that anybody will be able to engage with.
Dare you get lost in this tune?
For more And$um and Violete, check out their social media platforms below -
And$um:
Violete:
New Music Review - ‘Overdrive’ by Bella Rafflyn
Overdrive is Bella Rafflyn’s debut single, released on 12th July 2024. Cover art: Bella’s Instagram.
If you’re looking for a loved-up pop-indie track to help you work through your emotions, then you’ve certainly landed on the right review, as this is one song you are not going to want to pass up the opportunity to listen to.
We all know her, and we all love her for being the frontwoman of one of Auckland’s most inventive, well-respected bands, Coast Arcade, however, Bella Rafflyn has branched out on her own and bought out her much-anticipated first single, Overdrive, which was released last week.
Bella breaks away from her Coast Arcade roots briefly by slamming her foot down with full force to showcase who she is in a solo capacity, and it brings a flavour of freshness that will inject a bit of a hop into your already peppy step.
Overdrive has sweet, mild beats that lock you in this trance of wonder. With wholehearted confidence, I can say that as the queen of lyricism, Bella tops it with lines such as “cause I’ve spent too much time building myself, to give it to someone else” and that feels like a sucker punch to the gut as the realisation of the advice that Bella delivers is something that a lot of us don’t realise until later in life - that you don’t need to be with someone to just be with someone, or let them in and change who you are entirely.
Wise beyond her years at the age of 21, Bella is highly articulate, formulating well-thought-out words which are driven straight into her mastermind of talent and passionately shines through in Overdrive.
Overdrive is a silky piece of sunshine that can be enjoyed wherever you are this winter and I can foresee this track being a big hit during Bella’s upcoming live shows and even between artist performances at the festivals over the summer.
On the whole, Overdrive is the most exquisite, deluxe debut song and suits Bella’s persona very well.
For more Bella, you can follow her social media handles below -
New Music Review - ‘Daisy’ by Castaway
Daisy was released on the 7th June 2024 from Christchurch indie band, Castaway. Cover artwork: Castaway’s Instagram.
Seeking new heights with an incredible three singles under their belt that have been released over the course of 2024, Castaway have blown the figurative petals away with their stunning new, heartfelt track, Daisy, which was released on 7th June 2024.
While the topic of what Daisy speaks is on complex issues, the instrumental work on the track is straightforward, maintaining an easy path to follow and ensures a breezy listening experience.
Upon first hearing Daisy, a piece of my heart got lost in the tune, sincerely revolutionising and making me question how as humans we view things, feel things and how we are able to consume Castaway’s music.
Daisy is a special, close to home track for the five Castaway lads; it touches on the honesty of wanting to have one final conversation with a loved one, which evokes an array of multiple emotions, something that I feel that only certain songs are able to do.
Castaway have been silently slipping into the music scene a lot more recently and have started to see heated success, having had their music played on well-loved New Zealand radio and even more recently, having had the opportunity to open for Drax Project at the Christchurch Town Hall.
Daisy grips the corners of your soul, allowing you to let those emotions out, like a friend whose shoulder you can easily cry on without judgement. Going through loss and separation themselves, Castaway are no strangers to how these feelings can affect your daily life and clearly wanted to say that it’s okay if you need to release them in order restore some normalcy after either of these situations in your own personal life.
As time moves forward, it gets easier, however, there are moments where you wish you could be with certain people who are no longer by your side and I think Castaway have brilliantly encapsulated those thoughts in the eternal flame that is forever going to be known as Daisy.
Daisy speaks higher volumes than what you could anticipate, so if you need a moment to yourself, I would recommend taking the tissues to a quiet place, listening to this song and letting the emotions melt down to where they need to be.
To find out more about Castaway, make sure to check out the links below -
New Music Review - ‘script’ the EP by Genzed
script is the debut EP from local Christchurch rockers, Genzed. Released on 31st May 2024. Artwork: Genzed’s Facebook page.
Better get ready to bring out your electric air guitar because rocking Christchurch band, Genzed, have dropped their long-awaited EP, script, and it is as good as the first time I got to see these lads live back in 2022.
In the City was the first track that came up on shuffle (and I apologise for breaking the rules of listening to an EP/album not on shuffle the first time around), that song set the tone as to what you can expect from script. A headshaking, cracking, superb wave of richness from the rock band that, while they are still a little underground, they refuse to be left in the dust. They make the noise and bring their music to the forefront of your mind, hook, line and sinking you into their indulgent energy with pure ease.
Genzed set themselves apart from a majority of the Christchurch music scene, coming straight in with their chosen genre of rock for the script EP, as opposed to what we usually hear, which ultimately helps them to stand out from the crowd.
script has all sorts of components that bring the EP alive. There are levels of seriousness, higher levels of fun (such as Same Shit, Different Day) and each song will change your brain chemistry, smacking you strongly in the face with that much needed hit of dopamine that we all crave.
Genzed throw out their lyrics with a very matter-of-fact vibe that immediately helps them get their point of view across. script blazes through the fields of desire for all of your new listening needs; formulating this gigantic 4-track hidden gem that needs to be broken into pieces and shared with the world.
So, Leave it all Behind and get on board with Genzed where you actually won’t be offered a “you’ll love them or get your time back” because, guaranteed, you’ll be vibing to script for eternity.
To follow along with Genzed and see what their next moves entail, check out their links below -
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
Colour Thursdays Gig Review ft. Genzed - WTTG
New Music Review - ‘Boneless’ by Dusty Sunday
Boneless by Dusty Sunday was released on 14th June 2024. Cover artwork provided by Dusty Sunday from their EPK.
Dusty Sunday - enough said. I’m sure if you’ve lived through your teens to late twenties that you’ll be quite receptive of Dunedin band, Dusty Sunday’s name and their new track, Boneless, which was released on the 14th June 2024.
Boneless speaks about the bands time down south, where a fair amount of time was filled by knocking back a few beersies and flatting at 83 Harrow Street, which is commonly known around the student parts as The Casino.
Boneless is an energetic, vibrationally lively track that will tickle the nerves above your “Boneless” body. Packing a punch with the infectious rhythm, smart beats and waves of heat, Dusty Sunday know how to throwdown to capture your attention.
Dusty Sunday ensure that their listeners feel as though they understand the pure dustiness of living within the hills of Dunedin and surrounds where the craziness ensues, even without actually even being in the vicinity.
Boneless has parallels between being younger and a bit crazier, but equally at the same time, it also has the appeal to grasp onto older generations for a throwback feel to their pre-hangover days, or simply, reminding all age groups of the weekend they’ve just had, or are about to embark on.
Young, dumb and intoxicatingly fun is what Boneless is all about, so get your friends, get your drink of choice and pump out Dusty Sunday’s newest tune with no regrets.
If you can’t get enough of Dusty Sunday, make sure you check them out on their social media below!
New Music Review - ‘Snuffed’ by Hot Sauce Club
Snuffed was released by Dunedin-based band, Hot Sauce Club, on the 12th June 2024 and is this masterpiece of a surf-track that takes them closer to their old Shower Beers roots. Cover art from HSC’s Facebook.
Hot Sauce Club have recently let off some new sounding steam with their epic release of Snuffed, which is tranquilly melodic, and the lads are showcasing that they are sticking close to their deep-rooted sound of indie-surf as well as bringing in a more grown-up feel to the likes of their previous releases such as Toni Hawke. It feels as though we have watched Hot Sauce Club go from a Dunedin Uni-scene band to fully-fledged adults over the past couple of years with how they present their music and how they’ve seamlessly implemented what they have learnt along the way.
Snuffed was one of the things that survived the local Dunedin couch burning antics, having been sparked earlier in June when it was released, and has been on hot rotation on my playlist since day dot.
With sounds that embody what Hot Sauce Club are all about, they’ve stepped up the game with Snuffed, allowing another endless adventure to be had prior to releasing their forthcoming album, potentially due to be out of the gate in Spring this year, which is a big achievement for the lads, and I’ve heard through the grape vine that the album is a whole array of different genres, meaning Hot Sauce Club are striving to take their music to new heights - a direction that will make you even more of a fan than you already were (or will be).
Snuffed gets you out of those “stormy weather” blues; ensuring that a ray of light is sent in your direction with the utmost upbeat, well, beats and uncluttered junctions that come together to make Snuffed the satisfying track it is.
Snuffed is slightly slower (just slightly) than what you may expect from Hot Sauce Club, you can tell that every component has been well-crafted and meshes pleasantly into the four-minutes; this type of vibe truthfully suits them to a T and is setting them up for some great success now and further down the line.
No matter what the lyrics are from Hot Sauce Club, they can turn it into this excellent way of storytelling through the uplifting musicianship, taking it in a direction you may not have expected it to go originally. You will be left with this element of surprise by how much Snuffed will sneak in your mind all the time.
Snuffed is guaranteed to put a smile on your face, therefore if you’re interested in hearing more Hot Sauce Club, make sure to check out all of the links below for more!
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
Colour Thursdays (with HSC) Gig Review - WTTG
New Music Review - ‘Heads Down Thumbs Up’ by Harry Burt
Heads Down Thumbs Up was released on May 31st 2024, and is going to awaken your inner child from within. Artwork credit: Harry’s EPK.
“Right, we’re going to play a game of Heads Down Thumbs Up” shouted musical prodigy, Harry Burt. Flipping through the pages of childhood favourites comes this upgraded version of the classic game we all used to play in Primary School, where our only worries at that time were identifying who tagged our thumb and wondering if our crush would play with us on the playground.
Harry is a well-known, crucial artist within the local Christchurch music scene and puts out music that not only delights his senses but also has an immaculate pull on bringing new listeners into his corner which he has proven to do time and time again.
Heads Down Thumbs Up is like a limeade ice drink - cool and refreshing, tingling those nerves that you didn’t realise were under your skin.
Heads Down Thumbs Up is a little endearing, a little sweet and a whole bunch of fun. Harry always has this way of adding in this side to his music that makes others question what is on his mind, which makes him authentically himself, time and time again, which is all anyone can ask of an artist, to just be themselves.
Harry doesn’t stick with the same old stuff that you’d expect a young musician to make; he rolls the dice with enticement, excitement and playfulness, which proves to be a major superpower of his.
Harry describes Heads Down Thumbs Up as a tune that will make your inner optimistic child thrive, just as most children do. Quite often as adults, we lose that enthusiasm and optimism as life gets more complicated and it’s such a shame that we struggle to get back to that as we understand the universe a whole bunch more than we did as tiny kids that were, once upon a time, fearless. The child that you once were will be bought back to life when you hear this tune that will transport you back to the endless hope that lit your world afire in your growing years.
Tracks such as Heads Down Thumbs Up are a critical piece of art that everyone needs to swallow in order to feel things you potentially haven’t in a while and Harry brilliantly brings those emotions to the frontal lobe of your brain.
If you would like to follow along with Harry and experience his journey, you can do so by following the links below -
New Music Review - ‘ALIVE 4 U’ by Retro Valley
ALIVE 4 U is available now for your skeleton to dance to. Released on 31st May 2024. Cover art provided by Retro Valley.
The Waikato’s favourite musical lads, Retro Valley, are back on the scene with their latest song, ALIVE 4 U, which you can be forgiven if you initially thought it was released by a British or American punk band as they’ve got that sort of vibe with this hard hitter, which, in case you’re wondering, is highly complementary.
The slightly edgier version of Retro Valley is a treat for all ears - they take their alternative, indie pop rock style and put it through its paces with ALIVE 4 U. Strongly produced, well-written and cleverly captivating for all, Retro Valley light up this new power from within, making ALIVE 4 U potentially their most sublime and most mature sounding drop thus far.
The song is bought in toughly by the electrifying guitar; a perfect way to begin ALIVE 4 U. Accompanied by top class key work, outstanding drumming and impeccable vocalism, this is a song that will leave you with an upheld obsession for listening to this certified ten out of ten launch on a constant, unwavering loop.
Retro Valley have this way of almost transporting me back to being a teenager - if you’re even vaguely familiar with bands such as The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, 30 Seconds to Mars, among others from that type of era (and even a bit of YungBlud), this is the vibe that ALIVE 4 U gives off and it’s an absolute dream in the space of 3 and a half minutes to be on this planet to enjoy this one.
With ALIVE 4 U, it seems as though Retro Valley are finding themselves even more so musically, stripping back that pop element and ensuring that they are challenging themselves, exploring different elementals in terms of what their desired genres are to perform; there is nothing more endearing than hearing the maturity increase within artists over the years, especially Retro Valley whose track Who’s to Say I reviewed back in July 2021; evidently, they have evolved since then and ALIVE 4 U is heavy proof of this.
The making of ALIVE 4 U also looked like it was a lot of fun, with the lads doing a Come to the Studio video over on their Instagram (here) - so, it’s clear that this one is an extremely liberating track for them.
2024 is proving to be Retro Valley’s biggest year of all, so make sure that you’re keeping up to date with the band by following all of their social media links below -
New Music Review - ‘Hallways’ the Mini EP by Becca Caffyn
Becca Caffyn’s second mini-EP, Hallways, was released on the 5th April 2024 and is an absolute delight for your ears. Album artwork: Via Becca’s Instagram.
Hamilton-raised, Dunedin-based sweetheart, Becca Caffyn, is back on the scene with her incredibly well-toned new mini-EP which was released on the 5th April 2024, Hallways.
Telling humbling feelings from her own personal experiences in life, Becca doesn’t hold back on the pages that she shares, which feel as though they have come from her own diary. Impeccably placed, with immaculate wording to accompany soft styles of luxury, Hallways is a sweet treat that will leave you wishing you were able to hear more from this talented young lady (spoiler: you can! Becca’s debut EP, The Replacement Blonde, has been out since 2022 on all good streaming platforms).
Becca’s heart of the EP centres around missing home when things are changing, like moving to a different city, opting to allow us in with her soul-wrenching lyricism such as “I miss when my Mum lived down the hallway” in Hallways, and that line, if you are far from home or even if you’re not in your family home anymore, may have a heavy weight to it (as I type this review, it pinged me so hard, having moved across the world from my Mum eight months ago. Ouch).
Hallways is this goddess-like EP that will have you on the floor from the moment you hear it. While Hallways is comprised of only three songs, it encapsulates more emotion than your standard EP of five or six songs, making this one remarkable mixture of music that has recently become available to listen to.
The entire EP is humbling and comes with an acoustic, starry night ambience tied into it, which adds this phenomenal touch. Becca is an expert at putting out releases that are meaningful and poised, much like herself.
Becca has evidently come a long way since she released The Replacement Blonde in 2022 as the difference between that EP and Hallways is very easy to hear (this is in no way a criticism; I still highly enjoy The Replacement Blonde and change is inevitable). The power and maturity in her vocalism have been modified to the 2024 version of herself and I think it is astounding how big of a difference a couple of years can make.
For more Becca, check out her social media pages below -
New Double Music Review - ‘Leopard Print Coat’ and ‘Living Room Floor’ by Double Parked
Leopard Print Coat is a new, absolutely banging track from Auckland locals, Double Parked. Released on 1st March 2024, it’s got some cheeky wit about it, just like the cover art from Double Parked’s EPK.
Living Room Floor is the follow-up release from Double Parked, released on 5th April 2024. Cover provided from Double Parked’s EPK.
Get on down to your local and get yourself Double Parked because Auckland locals with the same name as having two drinks in hand have slammed down two new tracks recently, Leopard Print Coat and Living Room Floor. I thought, why not make it a double review feature and get this show on the road to celebrate!
Leopard Print Coat rip-roars through the ‘burbs, proving that the world is Double Parked’s stage with this jam-packed release that’ll have you grooving on the Living Room Floor, which, ironically, is the next review that is coming up from Double Parked in this double-feature. The electrifying drift of the output from the guitar is a delectable delight that will have your body feeling that vibrational pull of what it is that is about to be washed over you. Leopard Print Coat is what indie dreams are made of; with mellowed out lyrics, this track will be eaten up by fans of The Butlers and other musicians that share similar musical arrays.
Living Room Floor is the party-maker of the two songs that the lads have released this year; it comes straight out with these highly anticipatory vibes that will have your mind bending all over the show - the catchy illuminations of instrumentals will literally set your soul free, as the guys mention in the track. It draws out the crowd of people who are looking to have a mighty fine time at any given time of day or night and the Double Parked boys have hit a home run with releasing Living Room Floor as it fills you with this immense amount of optimism.
Double Parked have this intense gravity that pulls their audience towards them, which is proven each time they allow the world to hear new songs. After releasing their debut EP, Lost in the Groove, in 2023, these lads are making major strides to get their names out there in the New Zealand music scene by taking charge and putting themselves out there with gigs across the North Island.
If you’re wanting to learn more about Double Parked and listen to more of their music, then you should follow the links below to give them a follow on all of the platforms listed.
New Music Review - ‘Smokechasers’ the album by Lunar Intruder
Smokechasers is a dream, a soothing state of mind. Released on 5th April 2024, Lunar Intruder have created something special with this body of work. Artwork: Matt Genet.
In the works for what felt like an age, Christchurch-based favourites garage, rock-indie-pop, Lunar Intruder, have finally flown down from their own space to personally hand deliver us their flawlessly massive debut album, Smokechasers, released on 5th April 2024.
Targeting all audiences from the young ones to the slightly older generation, Lunar Intruder have this tendency to gain access even to the coldest of hearts; allowing their magic to work in mysterious ways.
Blood, sweat and a thousand beers were poured into creating Smokechasers, bringing this exceptionally home-crafted delight of an album to life.
Having been out in the world for an entire month now, Lunar Intruder have had the time to let the album seep into all of our minds and Smokechasers has proven to be sticking well, like one of those slap-hand things that stick to everything.
Smokechasers comes with these massive collaborations with other upcoming New Zealand musicians such as This Dog with their track, Crows Feet, pouring out the natural aptitude of these two bands merging together to create such a powerfully pounding tune.
Another collaboration on the album is the song called Left Behind with the ever-outstanding Honey for Jupiter which will make you melt entirely. With melodic vocalism and beautifully structured placements with the deep instrumentals, this track will have a direct grasp on you.
If you’ve been following along with Lunar Intruder for the past four plus years, you’ll be delighted to hear that their ever-maturing sound will keep you on your toes for a long time yet.
Smokechasers is a whole new chapter of this forged path for these young men; they constantly hardcore deliver in terms of the art they make known to the crowds across New Zealand and surely will hit the big time across the shores of the globe eventually. As I type this, I am enthralled by Smokechasers far from home, right in the depths of North England and I will continue to release the vibes by blasting Smokechasers, whether that be near or far, for all to hear.
With crowd-pleasing bangers such as House and Inside Out included on the 43-minute gem of an album, don’t you dare bypass any of the other new hits that will have your head swirling into an absolute state of pure bliss.
Other notable moments on Smokechasers include Twice Shy, Common Curse and Luck, however, let’s not get carried away otherwise the whole album will be listed here which would ruin the surprise if you have yet to take a drive with it roaring out your roof.
Smokechasers has been labour intensive and not an easy road for the Lunar lads, so make sure that you chuck the album on Spotify now and tell your friends, family and strangers on the street to do the same.
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For more Lunar Intruder, check out the links below!
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Website
Lunar Intruder - A Day in the Life - WTTG
New Music Review - ‘Why Can’t I Love You Less’ by Karra Rhodes
Why Can’t I Love You Less is a new drop from singer-songwriter, Karra Rhodes, released 1st March 2024, it is a well-crafted country-pop song that will have you shaking with joy in your cowboy boots. Cover artwork: Karra’s Instagram.
Energetic, with this hint of a fiery mentality meets country-pop in Karra Rhodes’ mystifying release, Why Can’t I Love You Less.
A crossover between Shania and Taylor, Karra takes matters into her own hands, pushing up a storm in the country scene; empowering her fellow female friends to embrace their feelings of how difficult it can be to let someone you love go for good.
Pop-country love is a rarity in New Zealand music, however, Karra showcases how impactful these moments can be with brilliantly gripping guitar hooks and fluttering vocals that will have you dazzled from the beginning.
Karra delights her audience with her consistent passion through Why Can’t I Love You Less and admittedly, this track in particular makes me want to burst into song each time it comes up on shuffle.
One of the most relatable lines from Why Can’t I Love You Less is definitely “Sunday mornings don’t feel the way they should, I’m not telling jokes to all my friends” which is punchy and tells a story within itself.
Karra is candid with her approach in terms of her music, which is an enlightening aspect to any singer-songwriters career, and I find this is a highly admirable trait that makes Why Can’t I Love You Less a desirable piece of art that you can be enveloped in time and time again.
Stay tuned for more of Karra on Welcome to the Gig, however, in the meantime, make sure you follow along with her journey at the links below -
New Music Review - ‘Feel for You’ by Monk Seals
Christchurch local legends have landed right into my mind with their latest making everyone feel for them. Feel for You was released on the 16th of February 2024 and has been a proven hit with listeners across the board. Cover artwork by Lola Ruu Macleod Watts.
Doctors’ office? Yeah, hello. I would like to get my vitals done as soon as possible because Monk Seals have set my heart alight with their heated new single, Feel for You, that will also leave you feeling unequivocally hot and bothered.
Coming in with these sublime psychedelics, cowboyish, blue noted tones, the Monk Seals know how to treat their adoring audience to treats pulled straight from their bag of goodies, leaving Feel for You making your mouth water like the best ice cream you could possibly ever taste in your life.
Having such prominent dominance in the Christchurch music scene, this is a new phase of an even more mature era for the Monk Seals, bringing this wildly enhancing, menacing-like energy to the table which perfectly captivates everything that the Monk Seals embody in both their personalities and their top tier musical capabilities.
Feel for You tends to appeal to listeners across the board as the Monk Seals never leave anything they want heard to be unsaid; the powers they provide come across with this unapologetically high-energy that snatches you up.
The way the instrumentals are superbly and effortlessly strung together to compliment Yannik’s voice will make you want to jump into the sea at Sumner beach* and get chaotic with your group of pals this summer.
Feel for You is set to be one of the songs that everybody at the rager you’re about to attend will know and will sing along to. Strap on your ankle boots and get shaking, you’re bound to love this song from the first second.
I also hope that Johnny and Becky are okay.
*Sumner Beach is relevant to the Monk Seals and other Christchurch musicians, hence the shoutout here.
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For more of the Monk Seals, check out the below -
New Music Review - ‘Carpenters Daughter’ by Steffany Beck
Country superstar, Steffany Beck, has recently struck hearts around the globe with her newest, vulnerable song, Carpenters Daughter. Released on 9th February 2024, Carpenters Daughter is one of the songs off Steffany’s upcoming EP, PILLARS. Cover art provided by Steffany from her EPK.
Carpenters Daughter is the stunning, latest country track from Christchurch-based Steffany Beck, who has taken pen to paper to share her love for her late father, carrying pockets of emotion with acoustic, heart squeezing moments.
A world-rocking tribute adorns the lines of Steffany’s mind, allowing her father to long live within the walls of her music, whilst speaking to the souls of others who have lost someone important to them.
Carpenters Daughter has many pertinent points throughout where Steffany expresses who her father was, honouring the memories she has of him. Tear-worthy lines such as “there ain’t a nail without your fingerprint on it that’s holding my frame together…” may just remind you of someone you know, shattering the notions that it’s not okay to express how deeply you love. (Which, we all know it is okay to express them).
Steffany reveals that she has found the loss hard; trying to find the strength to act fine when deep down, she was in a lot of pain from losing her father. Carpenters Daughter pulls the curtain back and allows Steffany to present this phenomenal piece of work in such a pure, exposed way that even myself, as the listener, felt the weight of her words without experiencing what she has.
Steffany has more music on the way during this side of the year and I am looking forward to hearing if she is holding onto more raw emotion from her upcoming EP, PILLARS, or whether there will be more light-hearted country tracks to be ingested.
Either way, I look forward to listening to more of Steffany’s music when on my daily commute.
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For more Steffany, you can follow along with her journey below -