New Music Spotlight: deepState, JessB, Daffodils, Achtung!, Paddy Fred, South Pacific Dance Organisation

Aotearoa’s Vibrant Music Scene: Recent Highlights

Aotearoa’s music scene has remained buzzing with creativity and innovation, particularly in the past week as artists unveil fresh tracks, announce tours, and reveal new albums. From electronic soundscapes to alt-rock anthems, there’s a rich tapestry of sounds emerging across various genres. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout moments from the week.

Ha The Unclear, Model, and Eigenface

Reviving interest with their latest projects, Ha The Unclear announced their upcoming EP, Astigmatic!, alongside a release tour and a new single, “Cumberland St.” Their unique blend of pop and rock continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing their knack for storytelling through music. Similarly, Model launched their debut single, “Hard To Be Around,” and announced an EP release tour, signalling the arrival of a promising act in the scene. Meanwhile, Eigenface released a compelling video for their single “Twizel,” reinforcing their reputation for blending captivating visuals with an infectious sound.

Adam Hattaway and the Haunters

The folk-rock collective Adam Hattaway and the Haunters naturally captured attention with their new release, Hot Variety Vol. 2, accompanied by a stunning video for “Country.” This project further solidifies their place in the local music landscape, reflecting themes of nature and human experience that strike a chord with many listeners.

Diverse Sounds from Kraus and Purple Pilgrims

Kraus has shared their new album, Water Music, a collection that fuses electronic and acoustic elements, creating an atmospheric landscape for listeners. Contrarily, Purple Pilgrims unveiled their haunting single and video, “Innocence Lost,” while also announcing their forthcoming album, Given To The Night. Both acts display an impressive range of style and depth in their latest works.

New Faces: Fox Moss and Evie Bamford

Introducing a fresh new sound to the local scene, Fox Moss released their debut album Eternal Veil, inviting listeners to explore a lush, ethereal soundscape. In contrast, Evie Bamford captivated audiences with her debut EP, Now Rising Now Falling, marking the emergence of a promising new voice in the Aotearoa music arena.

deepState: Downtempo Dreams

One of the standout releases from the week is deepState‘s third album, Rain, which gracefully navigates the downtempo genre. Finalist for the 2024 Te Manu Taki Tāhiko o te Tau (Best Electronic Artist), Jessica Morgan (the mastermind behind deepState) encapsulates her experiences within club culture, merging nostalgia with contemporary sounds. Inspired by the trip-hop and downtempo of the 90s, Morgan’s collection of seven tracks promises an immersive experience, allowing listeners to savor layered textures and emotional depth.

Listen to Rain.

JessB: A Star on the Rise

JessB continues to dominate the local hip-hop scene with her latest album, Matters of the Heart. Building on the successes of her debut, BLOOM, JessB’s new release showcases her evolution as an artist, featuring emotionally poignant lyrics and high-energy beats. Collaborating with guest artists like Deva Mahal and Paige, her lyrical prowess shines through in this twelve-track collection.

Watch the official video here and listen to Matters of the Heart.

Daffodils’ Comeback and Achtung!’s Rise

After a four-year hiatus, Daffodils returned to the spotlight, unveiling their new single “String.” This alt-rock anthem, coupled with a dynamic video directed by Hattie Salmon, has reignited anticipation for their debut album, A Good Year. In tandem, the Achtung! collective from Ōtautahi released their debut album Spear In Fine View, a personal reflection of their evolving music journey, capturing the essence of youth, heartbreak, and triumph.

Explore Spear In Fine View.

Paddy Fred’s Innovative Journey

In a noteworthy release, Paddy Fred presented his album Changes, offering a sonic exploration that blends genres and styles. With roots in beatmaking, Fred has reconnected with his guitar and vocal roots, creating a therapeutic musical experience that intertwines psychedelia with soulful production. His distinctive sound draws comparisons to early Unknown Mortal Orchestra, providing a rich, summery ambiance.

Check out Changes.

The South Pacific Dance Organisation Compilation

Lastly, South Pacific Dance Organisation brilliantly showcased the diversity of Aotearoa’s dance music scene through their extensive compilation, One Year Anniversary VA – SPD005. With contributions from a range of artists, this thirty-six-track album marks a significant milestone in the local electronic music community and celebrates the spirit of inclusivity and collaboration that defines the genre’s evolution.

Discover One Year Anniversary VA – SPD005.

Aotearoa’s music scene is teeming with creativity and a powerful sense of community, and these recent releases exemplify the diverse, vibrant talent that is sure to keep listeners engaged and inspired.