Tag Archives: New Zealand

Live Review: Six60 – The Metro Theatre (26.04.13)

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Photo: Six60 @ Metro Theatre, Sydney https://www.facebook.com/Six60

Photo: Six60 @ Metro Theatre, Sydney https://www.facebook.com/Six60

There’s something to be said of any band that can hop flawlessly from rock to reggae to drum and bass and back again and take a crowd of people along with them for the ride. And that is that they are undeniable rock stars. That’s just what I’d call New Zealand band Six60 who managed to effortlessly transition between genres this past Friday when they hit the stage at The Metro in Sydney to a sold out crowd.

Opening with their light hearted reggae anthem ‘Don’t Forget Your Roots’ the energetic 5 piece captivated the audience thanks to their boyish enthusiasm and playfulness on stage. Six60 made it clear that they love what they do. In return the crowd assured them that the feeling was mutual by singing (or screaming?) along to almost every note of every word of every song that they played throughout the show. It didn’t matter whether the guys were tackling honey-coated reggae or gutsy rock tinged tracks the crowd was with them every step of the way, and the atmosphere of the show felt a lot like one hell-of-a-party.

Lead singer Matiu Walters’ vocals remained flawless through out the show, despite the fact that he jumped around the stage with boundless energy for 90% of the show and the fact that he’s the only singer in the band – there’s no backing vocalists to help him out. I couldn’t help but ponder how much warmth extra vocals and harmonies would add to the bands sound, but Walters looked like he didn’t mind carrying all the vocal responsibilities at all. And I quickly forgot about my love of harmonies as Walters’ vocals gave more than most do; he was honest and subtle when required on the stripped back numbers but switched to bold and strong on command. All of this delivered with his cheeky devil-may-care attitude, which was perfectly in tune with the rest of the bands mood.

By the time the show got to its encore of ‘Someone To Be Around’, thanks to the crowds unusual chant choice of “Whoop there it is!”, Six60 had delivered a strong show that managed to have the dynamic energy of a stadium rock concert while maintaining the personable, down to earth vibe of your local pub gig. But as humble and carefree as Six60 may appear they are far more than just a pub band. Six60 make having the musical equivalent of split personality not only look easy, but very much like something that every band should take a stab at. After all why should we have to stick with one genre if we can enjoy a mash of them all in one show by one talented band? If Six60 keep dishing out their brand of rock-roots-reggae with a dash of dub then I’ll gladly keep making room on my plate for more of their treats.

Rating: 4/5

Live Review: Te Raranga Whanui – Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith (02.02.13)

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Te Raranga Whanui

The ‘Kapa haka’ is a cultural dance performed by indigenous New Zealanders also known as the Maori people and is a core element to the Maori culture. The dance involves the ‘mau rakau’ (a form of martial art based on traditional Maori weapons), the ‘poi’ (tiny ball attached to rope or string) and the ‘moteatea’ (traditional Maori songs).

It has been almost a year ago since we saw the various kapa haka groups that represented their state in an intense national competition which was held in Canberra. The groups worked hard for many months and prepared their routines until the weekend of the competition. The winners saw Sydney-based performing arts / kapa haka group Te Raranga Whanui (TRW) who will be sent off to represent Sydney alongside two other groups from Victoria and Brisbane at Te Matatini 2013 between 20-24th February in Rotorua, New Zealand.

TRW have been preparing for many months and we had the opportunity to witness their dress rehearsal last night at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith. The night was filled with such an amazing variety of Aussie-based Maori talent from young singers and musicians, to comedians and the naturally hilarious MC, Sana Ruaporo. She definitely filled up the audience with those crazy belly laughs all night. Oh God bless her! What I recall is her encouraging words to young people to ‘keep doing stuff’ as they are the future leaders of the country. I totally agree!

The first act for the night was a youth-based kapa haka group Tu Toa (a Maori based program designed to empower and enourage young people to stand tall and hold fast to their culture and heritage. Next up were broNZe, which stands for “Brothers from New Zealand Entertainers”. BroNZe is a Sydney-based group of four vocalists including Eugene Timihou, Chrissy De Theirry, Nick Panapa and Lynzie Jade Wharerau. They sang a selection of hit love songs including a cover of Latina-American artist Selena‘s hit ‘Como La Flor’.

After the deep stuff the audience were lightened up by Meta Tusini, a Sydney-based Niuean stand-up comedian, managed to give us more belly-laugh treatment as he introduced us to his aunty, niece and uncle (played by himself). What a crack up! Lynzie Jade from broNZe also performed a solo set of songs hitting the high notes with Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys and Beyonce covers. The handsome fourteen year old Terrell Pene sang a few cover songs too in his solitude with his guitar, a little timid at first and eased in as his father Reweti Pene joined him on stage for a song. Queanbeyan brothers, Ihaka (13) & Raniera Cotter (9) followed after Lynzie. They both sang very impressive solo acoustic sets of cover songs and also featured in the young Maori group Tu Toa. Very talented and adorable indeed.

After the intermission, we were treated to the dessert for the night with Te Raranga Whanui. They all performed in sync from their dance, to the females with their ‘poi’ and the men with their ‘taiaha’ (traditional Maori weapon) and harmonious ‘moteatea’. They stood together in solidarity. TRW sparkled with their amazing costumes and make-up. Despite some very minor technical hiccups and the music sheet stand in the way, it was such an entertaining night. One cannot provide an explanation of the experience. You would have to see it to feel it.

From the team at Mosca Media, we wish Te Raranga Whanui Strength and Humility as they will compete at Te Matatini in about 16 days time!

Rating: 4.5/5

For more information on Te Matatini and the program visit: http://www.tematatini.co.nz/

For more information on Te Raranga Whanui visit: http://www.facebook.com/TeRarangaWhanuiKapahaka

broNZe Launch – Bexley North Hotel (6.10.12)

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It was the launch night of Sydney based group of four Maori vocalists broNZe. The group includes members Chrissy De Thierry, Eugene Timihou, Nick Panapa and the new addition of Lynzie Wharerau also known as Lynzie Jade. We can’t forget sound man Keneti Tago. Although the night didn’t start till later, it appeared that people didn’t mind as they had an opportunity to catch up with family and old mates at the Bexley North Hotel, almost forgetting what the time was.

Not too long after the conversation eased out and the band set foot on stage each being introduced to the audience. Lynzie opened the night with the other members of the group backing her up beautifully with a cover of Aretha Franklin’s ‘Natural Woman’, surprising a few in the audience with her naturally powerful voice. BroNZe managed to maintain the audience’s attention with various hit previous and current soul and RnB covers including ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’ (Stevie Wonder), ‘Mercy’ (Duffy) and ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ (Whitney Houston). Chrissy surprised me with her lead in a Spanish song ‘Como La Flor’ by renowned Latin American artist Selena. I personally enjoyed that track and was glad to be one of the few to sing along with the group (well, timidly in the audience).

BroNZe funked things up a little with their transition to a hip hop cover of ‘Let Me Blow Ya Mind’ (Eve and Gwen Stefani) with Chrissy rapping to Eve’s part (and did a great job switching from singing to rapping). The group also did covers of recent hits such as ‘Price Tag’ (Jessie J) and Lynzie’s showcased her vocal range with ‘Love On Top’ (Beyonce) and Eugene and the group took the audience back in time with some old school Maori party songs.

Initially the crowd seemed quite shy to get up and dance, but after a few drinks they were up on their feet until the final song. Throughout the night we were served Hangi (traditional New Zealand Maori food cooked by a smoking method using heated rocks buried in a pit oven, as well as delicious doughnuts).

Even though the group perform cover songs, I would love to eventually hear some original songs complimenting their cover songs in the future.

Overall, together event organisers Kiwi Locals, sponsors and broNZe pulled off a great night and the group received great feedback and support from those who attended. I look forward to seeing them excel in the future. Tumeke!

Rating: 3.5/5

Katchafire + NRG Rising – The Enmore Theatre, Sydney (22.09.12)

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Written by Kristie Nicolas

New Zealand reggae has a definite sound of its own. I would describe it as the sugar coated cousin to the more conscious roots reggae feel of Jamaican reggae. Even when they are trying to stick it to the man the music still sounds so darn sweet. But what it lacks in grit, it more than makes up for in soulfulness. Who can possibly resist the sweet harmonies and positive, feel-good energy? This past weekend I witnessed Aotearoa’s finest Katchafire deliver that classic kiwi reggae sound plus more at the Enmore theatre in Sydney.

Kicking things off on the night was the second coming of the I-Threes; the trio NRG Rising. These 3 ladies, who are mother and daughters, blew the crowd away with their mix of originals and cover songs. They were all honey dripping harmonies and synchronised movements with a fierce female energy. I’m pretty sure I spent the first few songs asking out loud over and over again ‘who are these ladies, where did they come from and why haven’t I heard of them before?’. They delivered a tight show that you don’t often see in support acts, and yes, you best believe that they lived up to their name and did get the energy rising in the Enmore Theatre.

By the time Katchafire hit the stage the crowd was warmed up to a nice toasty temperature and ready to keep the mercury rising. This certainly was not a problem with Katchafire launching straight into their extensive catalogue of hits. It has been some years since I’ve seen this band perform, and it appears that they have not lost their touch, however, they have gained many more hits to try fit into their show.

As they jumped from track to track and from album to album, switching up lead vocal duties between band members, it became clear that this is one band that is having a great big party up there on stage. Katchafire play like a well oiled machine, not missing a beat and looking very much at home as they transition from the heart melting lovers rock style tracks such as ‘Love Letter’ to the frenzied, ska like rhythms of ‘Done Did It’, to the classics ‘Collie Herb Man’ and ‘Who You With’

By the time the encore of ‘Sensimillia’ was upon us we had gone through countless Katchafire hits, the crowd had lost their voices from trying to sing every word to every song (yes, me included), and my nose had adjusted to the smell of a certain herb that shall remain nameless. But one thing is for sure, by the end of the show we all had grins on our faces, and I’m pretty certain that this was 100% thanks to the infectious and lively Katchafire party we had all just witnessed.

Rating: 4/5

Katchafire back in Oz for Irie Australian Tour Aug/Sep 2012!

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New Zealand Reggae band Katchafire is one of the most diligent collective’s in their home country and had gained international attention.

Their fourth studio album On The Road Again became platinum which accompanied a mammoth 25 date headline tour in the USA and Hawaii. The tour became a sell-out at iconic venues such as House Of Blues, The Mezzanine, a headline tour of Brazil (with a documentary in the making) while over in the UK the band have been nominated for Best International Band at the British Reggae Music Awards.

They will return to the USA over summer to play the prestigious Sierra Nevada World music festival, before landing in Australia late August for a month long national tour including headlining the 10th Anniversary of the Cairns Reggaetown Festival.

The eight-piece band, that hosts five extraordinary singer songwriters, deliver one of the most authentic reggae shows around today. Their world famous, distinctly NZ sound, is backed by a blistering live show packed with hits. With Breathtaking vocal harmonies and a magnetic on stage presence the momentum just continues to build, and has lead to multiple platinum records, prestigious awards and critical acclaim.

Yes! Aussies get to see the boys too as they will be returning to our shores for their Irie Australian Tour in August and September.

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On The Road Again is in stores now through Lion House Records (www.lionhouserecords.com), Katchafire will be touring nationally this August / September.

AUSTRALIAN TOUR AUG/SEPT 2012

Pre Purchasing tickets for this tour is highly recommended.
All tickets will cost more at the door, if the show is not sold out prior.
All ticket purchasers, please sign up to our mail list to receive exclusive offers.

31st AUG – THE HIFI, BRISBANE, QLD
Get tix here: www.moshtix.com.au

1ST SEPT – REGGAETOWN, CAIRNS, QLD
Get tix here: www.reggaetown.com.au

2ND SEPT – THE VENUE, TOWNSVILLE, QLD
Get tix here: www.moshtix.com.au

5TH SEPT – MACKAY ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE, QLD

6TH SEPT – KINGS TAVERN, CALOUNDRA, QLD

7TH SEPT – RSL SOUTHPORT, QLD

8TH SEPT – THE HOEY MOEY, COFFS, NSW
Get tix here: www.offbeatoperations.com.au
Venue: (02) 66 523 833
Park Beach Music: (02) 66523 725
Coopers Surf Store (02) 6652 6369

9TH SEPT – GREAT NORTHERN HOTEL, BYRON BAY, NSW

13TH SEPT – THE GOV, ADELAIDE, SA
SHOW ADDED BY POPULAR DEMAND!

14TH SEPT – THE ASTOR, PERTH, WA

15TH SEPT – MARGARET RIVER TAVERN, WA

16TH SEPT – PRINCE OF WALES HOTEL, BUNBURRY, WA

20TH SEPT – FERNTREE GULLY HOTEL, VIC
Get tix here: www.ticketmaster.com.au

21ST SEPT – THE FORUM, MELBOURNE, VIC

22ND SEPT – THE ENMORE THEATRE, SYD, NSW
Get tix here: www.ticketek.com.au
www.enmoretheatre.com.au

23RD SEPT – CAMBRIDGE HOTEL, NEWCASTLE, NSW
*some ticket outlets may advertise shows including booking fees.

For more information visit: www.katchafire.co.nz

Video Review: Chasm Feat. Fashawn, Solo and David Dallas – ‘Highs and Lows’ (2012 Single)

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If I could only use a single word to describe the video for Sydney producer, Chasm‘s, current release ‘Highs and Lows’, it would have to be smooth. In the latest installment from his third album, This Is How We Never Die, Chasm has created a cross continental collaboration featuring US rapper, Fashawn; Sydney based Solo and NZ’s David Dallas, each of whom feature in the video for the track.

‘Highs and Lows’ is an introspective track with depth, and the simplicity of the video allows you to become fully immersed in it without distraction. There are no crazy special effects in this video, nor is there an attempt to make it into a mini movie all of it’s own, which is so refreshing. Instead, the video is a clean and crisp glimpse into the world of the artists involved and into the emotions behind the lyrics.

The production on this video is exceptionally high quality. It is beautifully shot and feels personal and intimate, with a sense of hope. As a Sydney-sider, the inclusion of relatively distinct local footage adds a sense of familiarity and only serves to increase a personal connection with the track.

Check out the video for ‘Highs and Lows’ below.

Rating: 4.5/5

Check out Chasm on Facebook

Tunes Of I – Self Titled EP (2011)

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Recently we came back home to Sydney from our New Zealand trip. We were originally there for the New Year’s Eve festivities shooting La De Da festival. During the festival our team decided to head down to Martinborough to grab some things. On our ventures we headed over to the Martinbourough Hotel for lunch and walked through the middle of Tune Of I’s set. We instantly fell in love with their sound. Later we had the opportunity to meet with their manager Tina Jeune-Smith and the boys where we got hold of their EP…

Tunes Of I is a youthful 4-piece reggae band hailing from Wellington, New Zealand. The band members include Mudz Chadwick (Drums, vox), Conway Jeune (Guitar, lead vox), Louis Gray (Bass, vox) and Bryn Van Vilet (Alto sax).

The four track self-titled EP (produced by Warren Maxwell, former saxophonist from Fat Freddy’s Drop) is just a taste of what their full length LP would sound like, and is definitely a winner for any reggae fan. The EP offers a generous amount of track time for the four tracks that are included, where I found myself wanting to hear more.

The first track “How To Say No” is upbeat and definitely a fun track to add to a party playlist. Totally digging the little alto saxophone solo piece implemented in the track. The following track “All For One” is more chilled out and definitely a track one could play heading toward dawn or chilling out on a lazy Sunday.

“No Worries” is a soothing track that encourages the listener to be generous and continue to do what they are passionate about even if one only has “loose change” in their pocket, no worries! The album eases out with the final track “Rhythm Inside” – another soothing and resonating track. The lyrics are self-explanatory, “Reggae music it fills the soul / it resides within you and I / and it makes you move / to the groove / it’s the rhythm inside”.

New Zealand has definitely got some local Kiwi talent. The future is looking bright for Tunes Of I. For more information and to hear their music head to: www.facebook.com/Tun3sOfI

Review Score: 4.5/5