THURSDAY 2ND AUGUST
- Happy
Sleepy Demons, Tony MacIver, Emma Boniface. 8pm $5.
- Bar Bodega
World Battle of the Bands Heat 4
Amos, The Ramps, The Stacks.
- Zeal
Antagonist.
- Subnine
Colonel Mustard. 9:30pm.
- Valve
Unpaid Debt, Not Quite Right, The Offbeats, OneBadWeekend.
- Mighty Mighty
Wanted Sesssions feat. Carol Bean.
FRIDAY 3RD AUGUST
- Mighty Mighty
TV Disko
- Sandwiches
P Money. $10 presales.
- The Adelaide
Idle Suite CD Release.
- Bar Bodega
Bastard Blues Band.
- Subnine
Karaoke Taxi. 9pm.
SATURDAY 4TH AUGUST
- Happy
Crossings Festival
Viraj Salvi, Night Mechanics, Onomatopoeia. 8pm $15.
- Room 101, Bar Bodega
The Low Spark, Sleepy Demons, Thom McArthur.
- Bar Bodega
Whipping Cats, Golden Axe, Holiday With Friends, Thought Creature.
- Underground Arts
Grouch, Organiks, Legobreaks, Filthy Tomo. 9pm $5.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Firehouse meets Jafa Mafia & Yardwise. $15 or $10 with Active Card.
- The Adelaide
Muntstock
Tim Beals, Das 1st Ein Blutfleck, Lil Miss Sariah, Stephen Jackson, Marleybone Station, Batucada Sound Machine, Hotel Arcadia, Barefoot In The Sand, This Winters Exhibition, Away With The Faeries, Holiday With Friends, The Dissentors, Dirty Bakers, Idle Faction, Cop Car, Civilian Down. 2pm start $5.
- Subnine
Amnesty International Freedom Week
Tommy Ill, Bonnie Scarlets, The Actualities, Fighting the Shakes, Thought Creature from 7:30pm. All ages gig until 10:30pm, then 18+.
- The Matterhorn
Ginger Brown. 12am free.
SUNDAY 5TH AUGUST
- The Adelaide
Charlette Hannah, Tony MacIver, Kathryn Baker. 8:30pm $5.
- Matterhorn
The Skins, Money-D, The Yeabsley Key, Lisa Tomlins. 8:30pm.
MONDAY 6TH AUGUST
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send your gig listings through to Charlette by Monday to have them published here!
TUESDAY 7TH AUGUST
- Bar Bodega
Beats and Bubbles.
WEDNESDAY 8TH AUGUST
- Bar Bodega
Riverblind, Liquid Lounge, Mercury Crowe.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Acoustic Lounge
James Bell-Booth + two more. 6-8pm free.
- The Opera House
Greg Johnson. $41 presales.
Monday, 30 July 2007
Saturday, 28 July 2007
REVIEW: Anika Moa
ANIKA MOA
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 27 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Anika Moa
Dressed in a plain dress, barefoot and much shorter than I realised, Anika Moa's image doesn't necessarily portray her incredible stage persona. It's the first time I've seen Anika live, and she made sure to let us know that she hasn't done a gig in six months, as she's been recording her third album, In Swings The Tide. It wasn't obvious, as Anika is professional, and her natural charm and talent shine through every second she's on the stage.
It was almost like a mix of a comedy show and a music gig. The woman is extremely funny. The audience was in hoots, and her down to earth, kiwi girl, crude humour was well appreciated. She kicked off the set with an unnamed song, working title 'I Miss You Heaps' and invited title suggestions from the audience after the song. These turned out to be 'I miss you', an intelligent interpretation of the song. Following with a song off the new album, Miss Universe, she then sang Good In My Head, the popular single from her first album Thinking Room.
Anika telling one of many jokes
Anika playing an omnichord
She opened the stage up to requests, and grudgingly, it seemed, played Falling In Love Again, another single from Thinking Room. She told us about her new album, coming out in September, and some shows she's playing soon in Australia. 'I'm going over to do shows in Australia, and I'm going to woo them and become famous pretty much. Just so I can meet Silverchair.' Support act Tim Guy joined her on guitar and vocals for a couple of songs, and it took me a moment to notice they are both left handed guitarists, as it looks normal when both are.
Anika Moa and Tim Guy
Anika Moa and Age Pryor
Returning for her encore, she asked Age Pryor up to the stage to do one of his songs, her 'favourite song', before finally ending on another of her new ones. The whole gig was thoroughly enjoyable, funny, beautiful, and inspiring.
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 27 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Anika MoaDressed in a plain dress, barefoot and much shorter than I realised, Anika Moa's image doesn't necessarily portray her incredible stage persona. It's the first time I've seen Anika live, and she made sure to let us know that she hasn't done a gig in six months, as she's been recording her third album, In Swings The Tide. It wasn't obvious, as Anika is professional, and her natural charm and talent shine through every second she's on the stage.
It was almost like a mix of a comedy show and a music gig. The woman is extremely funny. The audience was in hoots, and her down to earth, kiwi girl, crude humour was well appreciated. She kicked off the set with an unnamed song, working title 'I Miss You Heaps' and invited title suggestions from the audience after the song. These turned out to be 'I miss you', an intelligent interpretation of the song. Following with a song off the new album, Miss Universe, she then sang Good In My Head, the popular single from her first album Thinking Room.
Anika telling one of many jokesShe then asked us what we though of her new haircut, describing how it came about. 'My hair was down to my bum bum and we were doing the album cover and I thought I'd cut it. All my friends said don't cut it 'cause you'll look like a lesbian'. Her jokes in general did tend to be on the dirty side, and it was always difficult to tell if she meant it or not! She brought out an omnichord and played Blue Bayou, sometimes breaking out in giggles herself.
Anika playing an omnichordShe opened the stage up to requests, and grudgingly, it seemed, played Falling In Love Again, another single from Thinking Room. She told us about her new album, coming out in September, and some shows she's playing soon in Australia. 'I'm going over to do shows in Australia, and I'm going to woo them and become famous pretty much. Just so I can meet Silverchair.' Support act Tim Guy joined her on guitar and vocals for a couple of songs, and it took me a moment to notice they are both left handed guitarists, as it looks normal when both are.
Anika Moa and Tim GuyHer song In The Morning, off her latest album, Stolen Hill, was greeted with loud cheers, and a few audience members quietly joining in. She covered The Mint Chicks' Crazy Yes, Dumb No, which in my opinion, was actually nicer than the original! It goes without saying that Anika has a beautiful voice, confident guitar style and casual stage manner.Anika Moa and Age Pryor
Ending on her hit single, Youthful, she announced she would be doing an encore, so everyone should pretend to clap a lot. Halfway through Youthful, she said 'nice harmonies babe' to an audience member, who then got up on stage and proceeded to sing with Anika, harmonies and all! She took it all in her stride, and obviously got a kick out of out.
Anika Moa and Age PryorReturning for her encore, she asked Age Pryor up to the stage to do one of his songs, her 'favourite song', before finally ending on another of her new ones. The whole gig was thoroughly enjoyable, funny, beautiful, and inspiring.
Friday, 27 July 2007
REVIEW: Colonel Mustard
COLONEL MUSTARD
MIGHTY MIGHTY
THURSDAY 26 JULY
Words by Charlette Hannah
Colonel Mustard opened the Hunting of the Snark show at Mighty Mighty on Thursday. With their tight riffs and excellent groove, they quickly had everyone up and dancing. However, from the moment frontman Rowan Miller started singing, I was lost. It's hard for me to say this, as I know Rowan, and he's a great guy. I'm prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt and say perhaps it wasn't his best performance last night, but the vocals were flat and uninspiring.
For me the standout musician in Colonel Mustard was Thom McGrath on drums - tight, solid, hard hitting and all round excellent. Guitar-wise it was all very good, but overall I felt something a little lacking. Perhaps I wasn't drunk enough or something, but the music seemed pretty stock, and though it was upbeat and had a good feel, it wasn't anything particularly special.
However I do need to say that they had the audience on their feet, yelling and dancing, for the whole set, and that is always a good thing. The sound was thick and the players tight. I just personally didn't warm to it.
MIGHTY MIGHTY
THURSDAY 26 JULY
Words by Charlette Hannah
Colonel Mustard opened the Hunting of the Snark show at Mighty Mighty on Thursday. With their tight riffs and excellent groove, they quickly had everyone up and dancing. However, from the moment frontman Rowan Miller started singing, I was lost. It's hard for me to say this, as I know Rowan, and he's a great guy. I'm prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt and say perhaps it wasn't his best performance last night, but the vocals were flat and uninspiring.
For me the standout musician in Colonel Mustard was Thom McGrath on drums - tight, solid, hard hitting and all round excellent. Guitar-wise it was all very good, but overall I felt something a little lacking. Perhaps I wasn't drunk enough or something, but the music seemed pretty stock, and though it was upbeat and had a good feel, it wasn't anything particularly special.
However I do need to say that they had the audience on their feet, yelling and dancing, for the whole set, and that is always a good thing. The sound was thick and the players tight. I just personally didn't warm to it.
Tuesday, 24 July 2007
SPOTTED BUSKING
SPOTTED BUSKING
COURTENAY PLACE
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Photo's by Charlette Hannah
COURTENAY PLACE
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Oli Gray
Mika Aloiai
Robert MacdonaldREVIEW: Ginger Brown
GINGER BROWN
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Ginger Brown
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Ginger Brown
Joe Dobson
Lawrence TaulaAfter seeing Ginger Brown at Sandwiches on Friday, I started to kick myself for not having made the effort to see them play before. From the very first note, you can tell this is expertly crafted music, which is truly unique in this world of music where everyone likes to think they are doing something different. Not that they don't have obvious and strong influences, from 50's rock 'n roll, French inspired carnivalesque, 70's psychedelia, to today's rock. Somehow they manage to pull it all together and create something quite wonderful.
Sandwiches as a live band venue is a little odd - the stage seems quite small, and it is hard to see the performers unless you're right at the front. However in the case of Ginger Brown, it didn't matter too much, as they filled up the venue with their curious music.
Don't get the wrong idea. The 'curious' element to the music is an additional bonus to the pure listenability of the band. It's not an inaccessible musical ego trip. The songs are catchy, driven, melodic and dynamic.
Joe Dobson is a very interesting and creative drummer, and pounds the drums with force as well as pulling back and playing clever beats. His playing perfectly compliments Lawrence Taula's Hammond organ playing and fantastic vocals. Guest guitarist Matthew Armitage filled out the sound and line up.
I would highly recommend a visit to a Ginger Brown gig, it's well worth it.
Ginger Brown's MySpace
Sandwiches as a live band venue is a little odd - the stage seems quite small, and it is hard to see the performers unless you're right at the front. However in the case of Ginger Brown, it didn't matter too much, as they filled up the venue with their curious music.
Don't get the wrong idea. The 'curious' element to the music is an additional bonus to the pure listenability of the band. It's not an inaccessible musical ego trip. The songs are catchy, driven, melodic and dynamic.
Joe Dobson is a very interesting and creative drummer, and pounds the drums with force as well as pulling back and playing clever beats. His playing perfectly compliments Lawrence Taula's Hammond organ playing and fantastic vocals. Guest guitarist Matthew Armitage filled out the sound and line up.
I would highly recommend a visit to a Ginger Brown gig, it's well worth it.
Ginger Brown's MySpace
REVIEW: Liam Finn
LIAM FINN
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
My first impressions of the Liam Finn concert at Sandwiches went like this: Beard. "Where are all the musicians?" This was soon followed by "wow". I could leave it at "wow" but you probably want to know a little more.
The beard thing is pretty obvious, no further explanation needed there. However, the second can be explained. Sandwiches was packed. I was there in plenty of time, but not bold enough initially to bully my way through the crowd. So those of us 'behind the pillars' had no idea what was actually happening on stage. We heard guitar, then bass, then drums. Slowly, we learnt that this was being played only by Liam Finn.
The guy is a madman and a genius, really. Accompanied by a pile of pedals including a marvellous looping machine, and a backup singer, EJ, Liam really was a one man band.
I wasn't too impressed with his first thump on the drums, it was pretty loose, but you've got to give the guy credit for being bold enough to play the guitar, put it down, and jump on the drums to play with himself. The drumming got better as the night went on, and as I pushed my way to the front, I could see what a crazy drummer he was.
Liam had me on his second song. I'm not too familiar with his songs, but it captured me right away with it's lovely melody. Liam has a gorgeously listenable voice, and is a very proficient musician.
It doesn't even seem right to say it was a solo gig, as there was so much sound and dynamics. Liam went from a song with looped guitar riffs and drums and pulled it right back to a beautiful lullaby. With backup singer EJ providing delicious harmonies and someone to bounce off, Liam was on fire on Friday night.
It's the first time I've seen Liam play, and I have to admit I was never a huge fan of Betchadupa, but I definitely hope to see more of his solo work!
SANDWICHES
FRIDAY 20 JULY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
My first impressions of the Liam Finn concert at Sandwiches went like this: Beard. "Where are all the musicians?" This was soon followed by "wow". I could leave it at "wow" but you probably want to know a little more.
The beard thing is pretty obvious, no further explanation needed there. However, the second can be explained. Sandwiches was packed. I was there in plenty of time, but not bold enough initially to bully my way through the crowd. So those of us 'behind the pillars' had no idea what was actually happening on stage. We heard guitar, then bass, then drums. Slowly, we learnt that this was being played only by Liam Finn.
The guy is a madman and a genius, really. Accompanied by a pile of pedals including a marvellous looping machine, and a backup singer, EJ, Liam really was a one man band.
I wasn't too impressed with his first thump on the drums, it was pretty loose, but you've got to give the guy credit for being bold enough to play the guitar, put it down, and jump on the drums to play with himself. The drumming got better as the night went on, and as I pushed my way to the front, I could see what a crazy drummer he was.
Liam had me on his second song. I'm not too familiar with his songs, but it captured me right away with it's lovely melody. Liam has a gorgeously listenable voice, and is a very proficient musician.
It doesn't even seem right to say it was a solo gig, as there was so much sound and dynamics. Liam went from a song with looped guitar riffs and drums and pulled it right back to a beautiful lullaby. With backup singer EJ providing delicious harmonies and someone to bounce off, Liam was on fire on Friday night.
It's the first time I've seen Liam play, and I have to admit I was never a huge fan of Betchadupa, but I definitely hope to see more of his solo work!
Monday, 23 July 2007
GIGS: 26th July - 1st August
THURSDAY 26TH JULY
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Steve Kilbey. 8pm $39.90 presales from Ticketek.
- Happy
Lou Goodison CD Release.
- 1 Realm Drive, Paraparaumu
Boh Runga, Carly Binding. Tickets $27.50 presales from Ticketek.
- Bar Bodega
World Battle of the Bands, Heat 3
Scope, House of Spore, White Night.
FRIDAY 27TH JULY
- The Adelaide
Hot Swiss Mistress, Marineville.
- Sandwiches
Anika Moa, Tim Guy. 9pm $20 +BF fee from Real Groovy, venue, Ticketek.
- Zeal
Cause For Alliance, This City Sunrise, Dread Response, Whispers For Warning. 7pm $10 All Ages.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Jakob, Kahu, LD3. 8pm $20.
- Happy
Runzelstirn and Gurglestock (Switzerland), Dave Phillips (Switzerland) and Justice Yeldam (AUS).
- Scottish Pipe Band Hall
Gaylordz, Goodtimes, Knife Fight, Shortlived, Tentacles Of Destruction, Brick vs Face. $10 All Ages.
- Bar Bodega
The Thomas Oliver Band, Ginger Brown, Elson Gunn. 9pm $10.
SATURDAY 28TH JULY
- Sandwiches
Doc Scott, Marcus Intalex.
- Happy
Matt Langley 'Lost Companions' EP release party.
- Mighty Mighty
Goon album release, with Vorn. 8pm $5.
- Scottish Pipe Band Hall
Huge Mutant, Punchbowl, Smashin' Off, The Carthaginian Solution, Strangers, The Wrongmen, Scab. 8pm $10 All Ages.
- Valve
In Dread Response, Cause For Alliance, This City Sunrise. 9pm $10.
- Old Studio 9
Monoxide Blonde, Cyanide. 7.30pm $5.
- Bar Bodega
Ritalin, Not Quite Right, Fighting The Shakes, Okasite.
SUNDAY 29TH JULY
- Matterhorn
The Skins, Money-D, The Yeabsley Key, Lisa Tomlins. 8:30pm.
MONDAY 30TH JULY
?? Are YOU playing? Remember to send your gigs through to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com to have it posted here!
TUESDAY 31ST JULY
- Havana
Carlos Navarette.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
The Clientele, Robert Scott. 8pm $25 from Slowboat.
- Bar Bodega
Beats and Bubbles.
- Happy
Kimbra, Tony Barnao, Thomas Oliver Band, Little Pictures.
WEDNESDAY 1ST AUGUST
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Charlette Hannah, Kimbra. 6pm sharp Free.
- Happy
Fertility Festival. 8.30pm.
- Bar Bodega
Lacuna Seca
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Steve Kilbey. 8pm $39.90 presales from Ticketek.
- Happy
Lou Goodison CD Release.
- 1 Realm Drive, Paraparaumu
Boh Runga, Carly Binding. Tickets $27.50 presales from Ticketek.
- Bar Bodega
World Battle of the Bands, Heat 3
Scope, House of Spore, White Night.
FRIDAY 27TH JULY
- The Adelaide
Hot Swiss Mistress, Marineville.
- Sandwiches
Anika Moa, Tim Guy. 9pm $20 +BF fee from Real Groovy, venue, Ticketek.
- Zeal
Cause For Alliance, This City Sunrise, Dread Response, Whispers For Warning. 7pm $10 All Ages.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Jakob, Kahu, LD3. 8pm $20.
- Happy
Runzelstirn and Gurglestock (Switzerland), Dave Phillips (Switzerland) and Justice Yeldam (AUS).
- Scottish Pipe Band Hall
Gaylordz, Goodtimes, Knife Fight, Shortlived, Tentacles Of Destruction, Brick vs Face. $10 All Ages.
- Bar Bodega
The Thomas Oliver Band, Ginger Brown, Elson Gunn. 9pm $10.
SATURDAY 28TH JULY
- Sandwiches
Doc Scott, Marcus Intalex.
- Happy
Matt Langley 'Lost Companions' EP release party.
- Mighty Mighty
Goon album release, with Vorn. 8pm $5.
- Scottish Pipe Band Hall
Huge Mutant, Punchbowl, Smashin' Off, The Carthaginian Solution, Strangers, The Wrongmen, Scab. 8pm $10 All Ages.
- Valve
In Dread Response, Cause For Alliance, This City Sunrise. 9pm $10.
- Old Studio 9
Monoxide Blonde, Cyanide. 7.30pm $5.
- Bar Bodega
Ritalin, Not Quite Right, Fighting The Shakes, Okasite.
SUNDAY 29TH JULY
- Matterhorn
The Skins, Money-D, The Yeabsley Key, Lisa Tomlins. 8:30pm.
MONDAY 30TH JULY
?? Are YOU playing? Remember to send your gigs through to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com to have it posted here!
TUESDAY 31ST JULY
- Havana
Carlos Navarette.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
The Clientele, Robert Scott. 8pm $25 from Slowboat.
- Bar Bodega
Beats and Bubbles.
- Happy
Kimbra, Tony Barnao, Thomas Oliver Band, Little Pictures.
WEDNESDAY 1ST AUGUST
- San Francisco Bathhouse
Charlette Hannah, Kimbra. 6pm sharp Free.
- Happy
Fertility Festival. 8.30pm.
- Bar Bodega
Lacuna Seca
Sunday, 22 July 2007
REVIEW: Nigel Gavin
NIGEL GAVIN
WELLINGTON BLUEGRASS SOCIETY
SATURDAY 21 JULY
Words and Photo by Bill in NZ
Petone as location and the Wellington Bluegrass Society may not be the first things that come to your mind for music listening - but Saturday night that was the combination for the place to be to hear an astonishing NZ musical treasure in action.
WELLINGTON BLUEGRASS SOCIETY
SATURDAY 21 JULY
Words and Photo by Bill in NZ
Petone as location and the Wellington Bluegrass Society may not be the first things that come to your mind for music listening - but Saturday night that was the combination for the place to be to hear an astonishing NZ musical treasure in action.And action it was. A guy with a guitar - some singing on a couple of songs, some patter and some stories, harmonica backing (by Lester Mundell) on two blues numbers. But for pure entertainment it was the fingers of Nigel Gavin doing the singing - the art of solo guitar music at its finest.
For most numbers the 7-string guitar was used, but also an 11 string fretless glissentar was in action on one song. Intricate and unbelievable finger picking and playing - great music for listening if you dared to keep eyes closed and ears open just to listen. But hard to not watch and just marvel at the fingers in action - and to wonder how he does it.
The music ranged in styles and origin, some blues, some jazz, most improvised on the night, some abstract, a few based on traditional melodies. Varied and imaginative - with the word virtuoso an understatement.
The concert was captured by Costa Botes on video (five cameras plus sound recording) - Costa produced last year's well-received "Struggle No More" music documentary on the Windy City Strugglers. For those of you unable to see Nigel in action - the concert video may be available later.
It's well worth a visit to Nigel's website to get a flavour of his talent and range of musical projects and inventiveness.
But the place to really visit is the next Nigel Gavin live concert - whether Nigel solo, or performing with others. Nigel is off to the USA in the near future, but will be back in New Zealand for touring later in the year - let's hope that includes Wellington.
for information on Nigel Gavin
for information on the Wellington Bluegrass Society
Saturday, 21 July 2007
COMING SOON
Coming soon on Wellington Live Music...
Photo's and reviews of: Liam Finn, Ginger Brown, Hannah Curwood, Simon Comber.
Interviews with: Anika Moa, Nine Signals.
Photo's of random buskers...
And more!
Photo's and reviews of: Liam Finn, Ginger Brown, Hannah Curwood, Simon Comber.
Interviews with: Anika Moa, Nine Signals.
Photo's of random buskers...
And more!
Thursday, 19 July 2007
REVIEW: Jonathan Crayford Trio
JONATHAN CRAYFORD TRIO
HAVANA BAR
WEDNESDAY 18 JULY
Words and Photo's by Bill in NZ
The Jonathan Crayford Trio
I don't know enough about jazz to comment intelligently on jazz genres, but do know enough about music talent to say that if you haven't yet heard the Jonathan Crayford Trio live then you have missed a musical treasure on the Wellington scene.
WEDNESDAY 18 JULY
Words and Photo's by Bill in NZ
The Jonathan Crayford TrioI don't know enough about jazz to comment intelligently on jazz genres, but do know enough about music talent to say that if you haven't yet heard the Jonathan Crayford Trio live then you have missed a musical treasure on the Wellington scene.
Last night we went to the regular jazz night (Wednesday) at the Havana Bar on Wigan Street- a fantastic way to spend a wintery evening. You could have gone to New York City and found warmer weather at the moment, but you wouldn't have found better jazz. It is that good.
Provocative rhythms and Latin flavoured jazz at their best. Apologies if I get wrong but I believe the drummer is Miguel Fuentes from Puerto Rico & New York. Absolutely in tune with Crayford - as was the bass guitar player last night.
Havana is an interesting place to visit in itself - you could imagine yourself in a New York jazz venue - maybe in the early Seventies - atmospheric setting for the great music - friendly service and fun crowd. Food is provided by 'runner service' from the nearby Fidel's - a good start if you get there early enough.
But the highlight is the music in the front room - plenty of other places in the back rooms for conversations, but the front room is decidedly for the music - world class jazz - and not to be missed.
for some info on Jonathan Crayford
and Havana Bar
INTERVIEW: Little Bushman
A Psychedelic Jazz Enhanced Journey.
Resurrecting the iconic sounds of the past, the Little Bushman have created a sound that stays true to their roots. Pushing away the safety net, this 4-piece band’s (Warren Maxwell, Rick Cranson, Joe Callwood and Tom Callwood) brave fusion is destined for an exciting future. Their debut album, Onus On The Sand, featured the stunning vocals of Lisa Tomlins and Deva Mahal. They currently have their heads down working hard on their next musical experience.
Lucy Wyatt talks to Little Bushman’s drummer, Rick Cranson to find out more.
Rick Cranson: Yes and no. We definitely have influences from 70’s rock n roll – a lot of influence from Hendrix. There’s also influence from lots of jazz, Coltrane, the later Miles Davis bands, and many others. Also lots of psychedelic rock and roll like Pink Floyd, but really it’s a sort of an evolving sound. But the new album is quite different to our first one and that’s because musically, our writing has changed. There are more elements of Little Bushman and lots of improvising. There are lots of big jams that last 15 minutes or so. It’s simply an ongoing thing.
Lucy: “Jimi” is a very thought provoking track – the obvious strength of a legendry icon combined with the sensual Polynesian backing vocals inspires something of a mesmerizing cross-cultural journey. Was it your intention to create such a feeling?
Lucy: Even though your sound is quite different from that of Trinity Roots, (Warren Maxwell’s last highly successful band), there are still the strong overtones that tell of nature and community. How important of a sub-genre is this for the band?
Rick: It’s a big part of our music. It’s almost like escapism. We try to take the people that come along to our concerts on a journey. We try and push as far out there as possible to create an almost trance like effect. That’s a really important thing, and it’s reflective of
Lucy: Onus Of The Sand is an incredible album. There are so many elements that ring through from the psychedelic rock era of the 60’s, a bluesy tone and some dramatic twists of jazz improvisation. This is arguably a new type of
Rick: It’s a little bit of both. It’s definitely a conscious decision to say that’s where we are going. Warren Maxwell would come along with a whole bunch of skeleton ideas for songs and lyrics and a couple of basic cords and from there we would do a little bit of improvisation. Trying different ideas until it evolves into something that is a whole piece of music. That might take weeks but we do have a goal in mind. We try out all these ideas and if they work they stay, if they don’t they get replaced. We want it to be interesting for our audience and of course interesting for us. We improvise a lot so the tracks aren’t going to be similar. I think that’s quite a strong thing with us all being jazz players. Within that there are definite structures - we follow those structures so that each track has a character if it’s own.
Lucy: With New Zealand music becoming more internationally recognized and accounting for your influences, both the legendary and the genre-based, do you think this will afford you some better recognition abroad?
Rick: Yeah - I think we’ll try and jump on the bandwagon. We’d like to get over to
Lucy: What are your foreseeable plans for Little Bushman and do you have many tour dates booked for the future?
Rick: Our biggest thing is getting our second album finished. We’ve just spent 3 weeks tracking it over in the studio and there’s a whole lot of over dubbing and extra parts to put on and a whole months worth of mixing to do. Our aim is to release it in November. We have a few dates booked - some in Napier in October and then we are also playing with the
Wednesday, 18 July 2007
INTERVIEW: Cornerstone Roots
Revolutionary Reggae Roots.
Recognized in
Lucy Wyatt: Four years on from “Soul Revolution” we are now graced with your second album “Free Yourself”. Do you think your sound has changed?
Cornerstone Roots: It’s been a natural progression from Soul Revolution, but in saying that we definitely tightened things up. We recorded it with all of us in the one room – so it was done live. We did have a crack doing it the old school way – one instrument at a time and it didn’t quite work – we weren’t really getting the bite, so we decided to go back to how we recorded our first album. Also, we wanted to get it as close to our live sets as possible – and admittedly there was some pressure to keep up with Soul Revolution.
Lucy: You are known to project both political and spiritual messages within your music, does writing about global issues come easily for you?
Cornerstone Roots: Always. It’s part of my personality. I’ve tried to be quite platonic when writing, but I just can’t do it. A lot of people ask me what does it mean, what’s Cornerstone about? I say, what does it mean to you? I don’t want to ram stuff down people’s throats. I put the lyrics out there on the album so people can work out the political and environmental issues for themselves. One guy in the States emailed me and said for him it’s like a soundtrack for life.
Lucy: Your band has certainly grown from your original 3-piece set. How has the input of Jonathan Crawford shaped the band?
Cornerstone Roots: He’s a very perceptive person, quite eccentric at times, but we kinda like that. He brings a lot of experience to the band. He’s like ‘“it’s ok man, you just do what you feel like doing, don’t worry about the crowd, just play for yourself.”’ He gets us to think outside the square. He’s taught us how to explore our different influences and not to worry about being labeled.
Lucy: Also Lucino the “king of dancehall” contributes to the new album with his exceptional voice on the track, Jah, what was it like working with him?
Cornerstone Roots: Again – inspirational. He’s a legend. We were meant to record with him the night he played at the Galatos, but he decided not to record with Fat Freddy’s Drop or us. The next day I got talking to him and he was like, “yeah - I’ve decided to do the track.” We found the last studio in town. It took him 2 hrs to get the track down. He wrote it, did the backing vocals, the ad-lib and “Jah” was the result. Then I drove him straight to the Big Day Out where he was due on stage. It was tight.
Lucy: Your roots are obviously of great importance to you, always staying loyal to Raglan, what with organising the Soundsplash festival, but now you are taking Cornerstone Roots global. Why have you chosen to head to
Cornerstone Roots: We’ve been distributing to
REVIEW: The Black Seeds
THE BLACK SEEDS
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
THURSDAY 12 JULY
Words and Photo's by Lucy Wyatt
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
THURSDAY 12 JULY
Words and Photo's by Lucy Wyatt
With a European tour just days away The Black Seeds, promoting their new album Into The Dojo, graciously afforded us one last gig before their departure overseas. The Victoria University crowd were well fired up thanks to the dub collective that are the mighty Pacific Bass Culture and by the time The Black Seeds hit the stage people were ready for some deep grooving. Barnaby Weir greeted the students like an old friend with his down-to-earth personality. From the very start the atmosphere was one of dedication and pure respect.
Pumping out the old favourites, Turn It Around, Let’s Get Down and So True, to name a few, revived memories of how they conquered their homeland and the crowd nodded and skanked away with true admiration. The new tracks got a positively elated reaction thus proving that this band is definitely improving with age. The Answer has a mellow depth and in contrast Sometimes Enough shows something of a funkier side to the band. The Prince, with it’s instrumental jamming is a truly danceable number – a winning track.
The appreciative student crowd, crammed together on the sweaty dance floor, enticed the band back on stage and the dance floor was once again ripped up with a seriously demanded encore. The atmosphere was indicative of a bright future ahead for a very popular band. With European record deals, and an irresistible new album The Black Seeds appear to be on the right track. Maybe the illuminated star-covered stage’s backdrop held some hint of their future – all twinkling and shining and there for the pleasures of international stardom.
Tuesday, 17 July 2007
GIGS: 19th - 25th July
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
THURSDAY 19TH JULY
- Bar Bodega
World Battle of the Bands Heat 2
Alpha Noise, Fiin, Mota, Colonel Mustard
- Matterhorn
The 202's. 9.30pm.
FRIDAY 20TH JULY
- Tupelo
Ghost Dubs, Strictly 138, Kaps, Steppa D, P-Vans, M.Tekka. $5 8pm.
- Happy
Hannah Curwood and Simon Comber. 8pm.
Infinite Flying Kick, Decortica, Vorn, Hot Swiss Mistress. $10 10pm.
- Sandwiches
Liam Finn, Ginger Brown
- Bodega
Residue
- Valve
The House of Capricorn, Vatikan, Amarna, Demon Foetal Harvest, Gary Churr & The Beers. $10 9pm.
- Old Studio 9
The Pinkertons, The Philosophers, Harris MacKenzie Boock, DNA. $5 All Ages 7.30pm.
- Havana
DJ Takkas.
- Matterhorn
The Jewel School. 10pm.
SATURDAY 21ST JULY
- Valve
TT Ryder, Cynical Ploy, Forgotten Warriors, Muzzleglow. $5 Doors 9pm, start 10pm.
- Subnine
Crossings Festival
Big Bada Boom, DJ El-Amein-Ji, DJ Ajnabee, MC KthrNak, MC Pundit, MC Mantra. $10. Doors 9pm, start 10pm.
- Blue Note
Infinite Flying Kick, Decortica. $10 8pm.
- Sandwiches
Rhombus with local guests and DJ's. Tickets $20 +bf from sandwiches.co.nz or Real Groovy. R18 10pm.
- Happy
Ryan McPhun and the Ruby Suns, Holiday With Friends, Girlfriend.
- Underground Arts
The House of Capricorn, Wrath, Aethea, Vatikan, Morte Vida. $10 Doors 7pm.
- Bar Bodega
The Offbeats.
- Havana
Sons of Puha.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
The Little Bushmen. 9.30pm $20 +bf presales from Real Groovy.
- Matterhorn
The Imperial Doppelgangers. 10pm.
SUNDAY 22ND JULY
- Matterhorn
The Skins feat. Money-D, The Yeabsley Key, Lisa Tomlins. 8:30pm.
MONDAY 23RD JULY
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
TUESDAY 24TH JULY
- Havana
Roberto Rodriguez.
WEDNESDAY 25TH JULY
- Valve
Colonel Mustard, Karaoke Taxi, Cop Car.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
So So Modern, This City Sunrise, Hectik Runz, Zitty, Cut Off Your Hands. All Ages.
- Sandwiches
Charmaine Ford, Nick Tipping, Richard Wise. Album Launch 9pm Free.
THURSDAY 19TH JULY
- Bar Bodega
World Battle of the Bands Heat 2
Alpha Noise, Fiin, Mota, Colonel Mustard
- Matterhorn
The 202's. 9.30pm.
FRIDAY 20TH JULY
- Tupelo
Ghost Dubs, Strictly 138, Kaps, Steppa D, P-Vans, M.Tekka. $5 8pm.
- Happy
Hannah Curwood and Simon Comber. 8pm.
Infinite Flying Kick, Decortica, Vorn, Hot Swiss Mistress. $10 10pm.
- Sandwiches
Liam Finn, Ginger Brown
- Bodega
Residue
- Valve
The House of Capricorn, Vatikan, Amarna, Demon Foetal Harvest, Gary Churr & The Beers. $10 9pm.
- Old Studio 9
The Pinkertons, The Philosophers, Harris MacKenzie Boock, DNA. $5 All Ages 7.30pm.
- Havana
DJ Takkas.
- Matterhorn
The Jewel School. 10pm.
SATURDAY 21ST JULY
- Valve
TT Ryder, Cynical Ploy, Forgotten Warriors, Muzzleglow. $5 Doors 9pm, start 10pm.
- Subnine
Crossings Festival
Big Bada Boom, DJ El-Amein-Ji, DJ Ajnabee, MC KthrNak, MC Pundit, MC Mantra. $10. Doors 9pm, start 10pm.
- Blue Note
Infinite Flying Kick, Decortica. $10 8pm.
- Sandwiches
Rhombus with local guests and DJ's. Tickets $20 +bf from sandwiches.co.nz or Real Groovy. R18 10pm.
- Happy
Ryan McPhun and the Ruby Suns, Holiday With Friends, Girlfriend.
- Underground Arts
The House of Capricorn, Wrath, Aethea, Vatikan, Morte Vida. $10 Doors 7pm.
- Bar Bodega
The Offbeats.
- Havana
Sons of Puha.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
The Little Bushmen. 9.30pm $20 +bf presales from Real Groovy.
- Matterhorn
The Imperial Doppelgangers. 10pm.
SUNDAY 22ND JULY
- Matterhorn
The Skins feat. Money-D, The Yeabsley Key, Lisa Tomlins. 8:30pm.
MONDAY 23RD JULY
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
TUESDAY 24TH JULY
- Havana
Roberto Rodriguez.
WEDNESDAY 25TH JULY
- Valve
Colonel Mustard, Karaoke Taxi, Cop Car.
- San Francisco Bathhouse
So So Modern, This City Sunrise, Hectik Runz, Zitty, Cut Off Your Hands. All Ages.
- Sandwiches
Charmaine Ford, Nick Tipping, Richard Wise. Album Launch 9pm Free.
Monday, 16 July 2007
REVIEW: Mojo Mama
MOJO MAMA (and the Hired Guns)
Mojo Mama - are a piano based boogie and blues band - a trio - with Cindy Muggeridge on piano and Laura Collins on vocals as the mainstays, with hired guns making up the trio. The hired gun the past Thursday was Neil Billington on blues harp (harmonica).
EVA DIXONS
THURSDAY 12 JULY
Words and Photo's By Bill in NZ
Wellington is blessed with so much quality music in many genres - and many venues of varying quality. It's hard to keep track of the times and places for good listening.
THURSDAY 12 JULY
Words and Photo's By Bill in NZ
Wellington is blessed with so much quality music in many genres - and many venues of varying quality. It's hard to keep track of the times and places for good listening.
Another option recently available are music nights at Eva Dixon's. Last Thursday we went to the Miramar restaurant to escape the cold and wet weather - and to have someone do the cooking and dishwashing, and to meet with a few friends. We had a very enoyable evening, including several hours of relaxed, soulful and well delivered music.
Mojo Mama - are a piano based boogie and blues band - a trio - with Cindy Muggeridge on piano and Laura Collins on vocals as the mainstays, with hired guns making up the trio. The hired gun the past Thursday was Neil Billington on blues harp (harmonica).Boogie and Blues is just short hand for classic blues and laid back soul singing and accompaniment - with influences from many singers - from Bessie Smith to Bonnie Raitt and a few dozen in-between. The trio perfomed as befitting a dinner performance - outstanding in delivery, working well with each other, not interfering with conversation, but every song a pleasure to experience. The two hours of music must have been closer to three in the end - well worth the evening out.
The three musicians complemented each other in all ways - outstanding vocals, piano and harp. Laura has been best known recently for her alt-country and country-blues performances but this night there was classic blues singing at its best.
Best to check of course, for a special occasion to see if music is on the menu, but take my recommendation - the blues as background to the food is like fine wine - can't be beat if done properly, and it was with Mojo Mama.
Wednesday, 11 July 2007
INTERVIEW: The Have
“The Have” are truly having it.All grown up at the average age of 22 “The Have” have come along way, since their days jamming in Wanganui. With songs licensed for movies (The Devil Dared Me To), sports (Rugby 2007 and Burnout 2007) and TV ads (X Box, Canterbury for Rugby World Cup, Super 12’s in Australia), what have these boys not been up to? Their debut album “Back To The Burning Wreck”, sees them on their first nationwide rock n roll tour. Hot, young and awesome live, these boys seriously should not be missed. This time believe the hype, they certainly rock.
Lucy Wyatt speaks to Peter Mangan, to find out more.
Lucy Wyatt: Bet you are looking forward to promoting your debut album “Back to the Burning Wreck” to a
Peter Mangan: Can’t wait. We did a few gigs a few months ago, but it’s going to be great to cover both the North and the
Lucy: It’s fantastic that the
Peter: It was something totally new for us working with an international producer. He has such a strong background and great advice. He had some really great ideas and we had fun trying lots of different recordings. The whole band really learnt a lot from him.
Lucy: He obviously influenced your finished sound with his
Peter: Black Rebel Motor Club is really doing it for me this year and the blues. We’re all influenced by lots of different bands and styles, I guess it changes a lot each year.
Peter: It’s interesting you ask about that. It was Blair’s idea at High School, he just came out with it, we all agreed and “The Have” it was. Just came out of nowhere really.
Lucy: I heard about the cameraman in
Peter: We’ll have to wait and see, hopefully they’ll get down like they have in the past and in like the crowd in the
Lucy: You’ve come a long way quite quickly, where do you see yourselves next year? Any plans overseas?
Peter: We’re heading to Aussie in a few months to do some gigs, and we’ll probably relocate in the near future, as most Kiwi bands eventually do, but not quite sure yet.
Lucy: Back To The Burning Wreck has had very positive reviews. Was it hard to edit down the tracks? Do you have a favourite?
Peter: Yeah it was hard. We had 23 to edit down and we decided on 13 in the end. I guess my favourite is Oh, Oh, My, My.
Lucy: You guys are all pretty young and charging ahead nice and smoothly. What age were you when you looked at your idols and thought I can do that?
Peter: We were 16 at High School and we all had the same passion, tastes and ambitions. We started young. When you’re young it’s about having fun, now it’s paying off.
Lucy: Myspace has helped lots of bands worldwide, do you feel it has had much of an impact on your success?
Peter: I think it’s a great tool to use. It’s excellent to hear from our fans and keep in touch with them wherever they are in the world. Also for photos, so people can see what’s been happening at the gigs. It’s free advertising and access to our music, perfect.
More info
INTERVIEW: The Black Seeds
Sowing The Seeds That Bloom.It’s all going on with The Black Seeds. This month has seen an onslaught of exciting news. News that shall take them overseas, climbing up the ladder of international success. Their innovative fusion of reggae, dub, soul and ska has been sophistically reworked into their new album Into The Dojo. Their last tour recently sold out in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Wollangong and now with the European signing The Black Seeds are ready for their fast growing international following. Don’t worry they aren’t turning their backs on us, catch their New Zealand tour in Sept/Oct.
Lucy Wyatt talks to Barnaby Weir from The Black Seeds to find out where they are heading this year.
Lucy Wyatt: Firstly, I would like to congratulate you on signing with the renowned international labels “Sonar Kollectiv” for Europe and “Rough Trade” in Holland. How does it feel to have that level of recognition?
Lucy: Your new album Into The Dojo is to be launched across Europe and Japan, at the beginning of next month. So tell me, how did the title of the album come about?
Barnaby: Well we rehearse in an old Dojo where we’ve spent many years. There is a bit of a history to the place. Stretching back probably 15 or 20 years. Many different people have used it for music over that time - different bands - underground bands, some really good bands have passed through there. We have been using it for about 5 years or so, and we’ve spent a lot of time there tuning our sound. It’s a funny place, really dingy sometimes, especially if it’s a nice day outside, it doesn’t let much sun in. But that is where the magic has been made and lots of cool music has come out of that room.
Lucy:
Barnaby: I guess it’s good for a band to be on tour in Europe and see what the other big bands are doing. Not necessarily similar bands, but just to see how other bands are trying to make it. It does open your perception of what it is you are trying to do and how difficult it can be - it gives us better clarify when you see other acts perform. Also, when you get to London you can look in the paper and there are international acts touring Europe all the time and it’s inspiring for us to be at that level. Getting out there - doing the festivals and widening our fan base.
Lucy: Into The Dojo has had raving reviews so far. Was it a natural progression from On The Sun, or do you feel your sound has changed?
Barnaby: It was a natural progression but On The Sun does have a slightly different rhythm partly because it’s slightly different band, I mean the same band, but different members. And we’ve matured as artists and we’ve got better as we’ve done more gigs. Genre wise - it’s not really a huge shift. Perhaps there is more variety in the new album, it’s less poppy, a bit darker - we dimmed the lighting. Daniel Weetman was one of the writers, he’s more of a shared writer from the rest of the band, and Mike Fabulous who plays the guitar produced the album with Lee Prebble, who records lots of other bands. I’m really into the album it’s a good one from us. It’s more interesting than the previous one, and a bit different.
Lucy: We see a lot of successful New Zealand bands relocate. Does the band have any plans to move offshore in the future?
Barnaby: Well, no not really, I mean not at this stage. I’m not sure if that will ever happen because of the way the band works. There are young fathers in the band and the kids and families are based here. If you really wanted to take on Europe you would just move somewhere cheap in the middle of it and just nail it for 3 years, but we are not going to do that because it’s just not possible and it’s more important to just have the band all together doing as much as we can. We need to work within those boundaries. We can do a month here or 2 months there we do replace people if they can’t make it on a big tour, but you can’t put that type of pressure on everyone as they have other responsibilities.
Monday, 9 July 2007
GIGS: 12th - 18th July
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
THURSDAY 12TH JULY
- Bodega
World Battle of the Bands Wellington Heat 1
Psycho Space Monkeys, Faster She Said and more.
- Sandwiches
Harbour City Electric. 9pm.
- Subnine
Riverblind, Muzzeglow, Barefoot In The Sand. 10pm $5.
- The Adelaide
The Ramps, The Randoms, Amos. Free.
-Valve
Omega Realm, Slaughtered Symphony, Evil Mule. 9pm.
FRIDAY 13TH JULY
- Bodega
The Stomps, Bastard Sons of Grey Power, The Randoms. 8pm.
- Underground Arts
Black Friday Massacre. 9pm $5.
- Old Studio 9
Charmed School Rejects, Left Handed Addiction, Too Many Jonnys, Twice On Thursdays. 7.30pm $5 All Ages.
-San Francisco Bathhouse
Bad Luck Ball Pt 3
Thumper, Horror Story, Black Chrome, Volcana, DJ Voodoo Savage, DJ Nightmare 666. 8pm $13.
- Sandwiches
Teebee (NOR) and Calyx (UK) & The Upbeats: Local support from Mr Smith, Indeks and Habit. Tickets $45 +bf from Real Groovy, Cosmic Corner, DMC and Sandwiches.
-Subnine
Concord Dawn, local DJ’s Sal and DDog. 10pm. Tickets $25 from Real Groovy and Cosmic Croner and $30 on the door.
- Valve
Fanucman, Punchbowl, Pink Flamingoes, Goodtimes.
SATURDAY 14TH JULY
- Sandwiches
Timmy Schumacher & MC Kyla. R18, $20 (+BF) presales.
- Old Studio 9
Alien 8, The Alpha Shift, The Stacks, Feiry Orchid. 7.30pm $5 All Ages.
- Bodega, Room 101
The Huhu.
- Valve
The Postures, Fanucman, Yokel Ono, The Dissentors, Captain Sergeant Major. 9pm $10.
- Mighty Mighty
Cherry's Gemstones. Wild Rockabilly Surf Marshan Madness. 9pm $10.
SUNDAY 15TH JULY
- Old Studio 9
Acoustic Afternoon. 2-5pm $5. With Barefoot In The Sand.
MONDAY 16TH JULY
- Southern Cross
Acoustic Pioneers.
Matthew Pixie Pickering and more. Koha entry.
TUESDAY 17TH JULY
- Valve
Seisure Drum N Bass 1/ NAR/CO/SIA, Evil and McSig'le
WEDNESDAY 18TH JULY
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
THURSDAY 12TH JULY
- Bodega
World Battle of the Bands Wellington Heat 1
Psycho Space Monkeys, Faster She Said and more.
- Sandwiches
Harbour City Electric. 9pm.
- Subnine
Riverblind, Muzzeglow, Barefoot In The Sand. 10pm $5.
- The Adelaide
The Ramps, The Randoms, Amos. Free.
-Valve
Omega Realm, Slaughtered Symphony, Evil Mule. 9pm.
FRIDAY 13TH JULY
- Bodega
The Stomps, Bastard Sons of Grey Power, The Randoms. 8pm.
- Underground Arts
Black Friday Massacre. 9pm $5.
- Old Studio 9
Charmed School Rejects, Left Handed Addiction, Too Many Jonnys, Twice On Thursdays. 7.30pm $5 All Ages.
-San Francisco Bathhouse
Bad Luck Ball Pt 3
Thumper, Horror Story, Black Chrome, Volcana, DJ Voodoo Savage, DJ Nightmare 666. 8pm $13.
- Sandwiches
Teebee (NOR) and Calyx (UK) & The Upbeats: Local support from Mr Smith, Indeks and Habit. Tickets $45 +bf from Real Groovy, Cosmic Corner, DMC and Sandwiches.
-Subnine
Concord Dawn, local DJ’s Sal and DDog. 10pm. Tickets $25 from Real Groovy and Cosmic Croner and $30 on the door.
- Valve
Fanucman, Punchbowl, Pink Flamingoes, Goodtimes.
SATURDAY 14TH JULY
- Sandwiches
Timmy Schumacher & MC Kyla. R18, $20 (+BF) presales.
- Old Studio 9
Alien 8, The Alpha Shift, The Stacks, Feiry Orchid. 7.30pm $5 All Ages.
- Bodega, Room 101
The Huhu.
- Valve
The Postures, Fanucman, Yokel Ono, The Dissentors, Captain Sergeant Major. 9pm $10.
- Mighty Mighty
Cherry's Gemstones. Wild Rockabilly Surf Marshan Madness. 9pm $10.
SUNDAY 15TH JULY
- Old Studio 9
Acoustic Afternoon. 2-5pm $5. With Barefoot In The Sand.
MONDAY 16TH JULY
- Southern Cross
Acoustic Pioneers.
Matthew Pixie Pickering and more. Koha entry.
TUESDAY 17TH JULY
- Valve
Seisure Drum N Bass 1/ NAR/CO/SIA, Evil and McSig'le
WEDNESDAY 18TH JULY
Are YOU playing in Wellington? Remember to send through your gig details to wellingtonlivemusic@hotmail.com by Monday morning to have it listed here!
Friday, 6 July 2007
REVIEW: Cherry's Gemstones and Disasteradio
FRIDAY 29TH JUNE
CIVIC ART GALLERY
CHERRY'S GEMSTONES
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Rock 'n roll
As can be seen by the photo's, a show with Ms Cherry Gemstone is never predictable. Kicking off with a lovely ukulele song, Annabel, she began the set at the Civic Art Gallery solo.
She then moved to acoustic guitar, playing a variety of songs in her own inimatable style.
Hannah Simpson (Cherry) has one of the best voices I've heard in a long time. Sweet and husky, and yet able to blow the roof off when she really lets go. This is one woman who knows her own voice and is not afraid to use it.
After a few songs, Cherry was joined by drummer Ben Payne, or B Jammin. She picked up the electric guitar, danced around, and did a song that started with playing her guitar with the beer bottle. And from what I can gather, this was one of her more subdued gigs!
Cherry's Gemstones did two sets all up. In the second set, Cherry moved to keyboards, and was joined by violinist Claire Macfarlane. Strings (other than guitars, of course) sound so good in bands, I'm surprised more people don't use them. Claire played lovely melodies over Cherry's melancholic and slightly eerie piano tunes. As expressive as usual, the change in songwriting style between guitar and keyboard was quite noticeable. Personally I prefer her piano stuff, but although they are by the same person it is a bit of an apples and pears comparison.
Cherry is obviously a musical force, whether you like her music or not, and her voice at the very least should be appreciated by many, as it is absolutely stellar.
Disasteradio turned out to be one guy, Luke Rowell, and his computer. It was high energy electronica pop, and drove me nuts after one and a half songs. There's obviously an audience out there for this sort of thing, but with no vocals and a guy just standing there tapping away on keys and barely dancing himself, it didn't even hold my attention for over five minutes, and I'm sorry to say I didn't stay around to catch the last band who were playing that night.
CIVIC ART GALLERY
CHERRY'S GEMSTONES
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Hannah Simpson, a.k.a Cherry Gemstone
Rock 'n roll
Cherry's Gemstone's - Claire Macfarlane Cherry, Ben a.k.a B Jammin
As can be seen by the photo's, a show with Ms Cherry Gemstone is never predictable. Kicking off with a lovely ukulele song, Annabel, she began the set at the Civic Art Gallery solo.
She then moved to acoustic guitar, playing a variety of songs in her own inimatable style.
Hannah Simpson (Cherry) has one of the best voices I've heard in a long time. Sweet and husky, and yet able to blow the roof off when she really lets go. This is one woman who knows her own voice and is not afraid to use it.
After a few songs, Cherry was joined by drummer Ben Payne, or B Jammin. She picked up the electric guitar, danced around, and did a song that started with playing her guitar with the beer bottle. And from what I can gather, this was one of her more subdued gigs!
Cherry's Gemstones did two sets all up. In the second set, Cherry moved to keyboards, and was joined by violinist Claire Macfarlane. Strings (other than guitars, of course) sound so good in bands, I'm surprised more people don't use them. Claire played lovely melodies over Cherry's melancholic and slightly eerie piano tunes. As expressive as usual, the change in songwriting style between guitar and keyboard was quite noticeable. Personally I prefer her piano stuff, but although they are by the same person it is a bit of an apples and pears comparison.
Cherry is obviously a musical force, whether you like her music or not, and her voice at the very least should be appreciated by many, as it is absolutely stellar.
DISASTERADIO
Disasteradio turned out to be one guy, Luke Rowell, and his computer. It was high energy electronica pop, and drove me nuts after one and a half songs. There's obviously an audience out there for this sort of thing, but with no vocals and a guy just standing there tapping away on keys and barely dancing himself, it didn't even hold my attention for over five minutes, and I'm sorry to say I didn't stay around to catch the last band who were playing that night.
REVIEW: Shaun, Rikki, Kathryn, Matt
SHAUN K ANDERSON, RIKKI DOOLAN, KATHRYN BAKER, MATT HOLLEMAN
THURSDAY 5TH JULY
SUBNINE
Words by Charlette Hannah
Photo's by Rebecca Holleman
There seems to be a neverending supply of talented solo artists in this city! On this wet and chilly night (what night isn't lately) we ventured down the back alleys to Subnine, home of drum 'n bass and all things electronic. This was evidenced by the slightly shaky sound system the performers had to deal with. It looked like a great set up for a DJ - but couldn't handle a band at this stage.
After a few technical hitches, the evening started with Shaun K Anderson. I have to admit, he's grown on me since I last saw him. Not that I ever disliked his music, by any means, but this time I felt a bit more from it. I would like to see a bit more of a dynamic performance, but Shaun does have a lovely voice, and I think the songs become more appealing each listen.
Each set was very short, only four or five songs, which was actually quite nice. It meant those who a) have a short attention span and b) have to get up the morning, such as myself, got a taste of each performer, a nice evening, and no need to sneak out before the end!
After Shaun, Rikki Doolan took the stage. Rikki has a pleasantly casual aura, and a voice that reminds me somewhat of Mr E of The Eels. He puts on quite a dynamic performance, and tonight that included a John Lennon song - Working Class Hero. Of course, I'm always a bit of a sucker for an English accent!
Kathryn Baker broke the male trend, with her lilting pop voice and finely crafted acoustic songs. I first saw Kathryn with her band Vade, which I would almost liken to a female Radiohead with less keyboards and more rock. Her solo work has interesting melodies, and her voice is lovely. She ended with a song called 'Be Straight With Me' which illustrated the heartfelt nature of her lyrics.
Last up was Matt Holleman, with his unique vocal style and skilled guitaring. Matt's songs manage to be unusual somehow, in a scene where different from one thing means the same as something else. I was a bit mystified by the tone of the guitar - what kind of strings do you use, Matt? Again, a very short set meant that it was a brief encounter with Matt's music, but what I heard got my attention which is always a good start!
THURSDAY 5TH JULY
SUBNINE
Words by Charlette Hannah
Photo's by Rebecca Holleman
There seems to be a neverending supply of talented solo artists in this city! On this wet and chilly night (what night isn't lately) we ventured down the back alleys to Subnine, home of drum 'n bass and all things electronic. This was evidenced by the slightly shaky sound system the performers had to deal with. It looked like a great set up for a DJ - but couldn't handle a band at this stage.
After a few technical hitches, the evening started with Shaun K Anderson. I have to admit, he's grown on me since I last saw him. Not that I ever disliked his music, by any means, but this time I felt a bit more from it. I would like to see a bit more of a dynamic performance, but Shaun does have a lovely voice, and I think the songs become more appealing each listen.
Each set was very short, only four or five songs, which was actually quite nice. It meant those who a) have a short attention span and b) have to get up the morning, such as myself, got a taste of each performer, a nice evening, and no need to sneak out before the end!
Rikki Doolan
After Shaun, Rikki Doolan took the stage. Rikki has a pleasantly casual aura, and a voice that reminds me somewhat of Mr E of The Eels. He puts on quite a dynamic performance, and tonight that included a John Lennon song - Working Class Hero. Of course, I'm always a bit of a sucker for an English accent!
Kathryn Baker broke the male trend, with her lilting pop voice and finely crafted acoustic songs. I first saw Kathryn with her band Vade, which I would almost liken to a female Radiohead with less keyboards and more rock. Her solo work has interesting melodies, and her voice is lovely. She ended with a song called 'Be Straight With Me' which illustrated the heartfelt nature of her lyrics.
I'm not sure exactly what point the party next door got started, but I first noticed it between Kathryn's songs. It must have been a bit of a challenge to play with loud drum 'n bass in the background, and I admire that they didn't get distracted! Or if they did, they hid it well.
Matt Holleman
Last up was Matt Holleman, with his unique vocal style and skilled guitaring. Matt's songs manage to be unusual somehow, in a scene where different from one thing means the same as something else. I was a bit mystified by the tone of the guitar - what kind of strings do you use, Matt? Again, a very short set meant that it was a brief encounter with Matt's music, but what I heard got my attention which is always a good start!
REVIEW: Mannekin Thoughts and Barefoot In The Sand
SAN FRANCISCO BATHHOUSE
ACOUSTIC LOUNGE
WEDNESDAY 4TH JULY
Words by Charlette Hannah
MANNEKIN THOUGHTS
Acoustic Lounge really is the place to go to find talented singer/songwriters/bands. I don't know where Peter Baillie find them all, but he manages to constantly procure excellent performers.
Mannekin Thoughts opened the night, with their upbeat alternative/country/folk rock. Between the two of them, Rose and Byron played guitars, tambourine, hamonica and shakers. Both had great vocals, especially Rose. The melodies and rhythms are skilled and it's great to listen to, with lots of feeling. It's good to hear more upbeat music - people often seem to get sucked into the melancholia trap.
BAREFOOT IN THE SAND
Following Mannekin Thoughts was four piece folk funk band Barefoot In The Sand. Singer Jenn Shelton has an deep, powerful and soulful voice, and the instrumentation from the guys is dynamic and unique. Not many bands would dream of putting aside the full drum kit in favour of a hand drum, but percussionist Jeremy Hantler not only played a variety of beats, he even did a solo! Hamish Maudie provided stable and creative bass lines, while Blair Pederson on the guitar had subtle and lovely riffs. Each musician was given their chance to shine.
There was obvious rapport between the members, which created a real feeling of harmony, quite aside from the lovely harmonies in the music.
The music overall is laid back yet interesting, with a solid groove. I will definitely be keeping my ears out for these two bands.
ACOUSTIC LOUNGE
WEDNESDAY 4TH JULY
Words by Charlette Hannah
MANNEKIN THOUGHTS
Acoustic Lounge really is the place to go to find talented singer/songwriters/bands. I don't know where Peter Baillie find them all, but he manages to constantly procure excellent performers.
Mannekin Thoughts opened the night, with their upbeat alternative/country/folk rock. Between the two of them, Rose and Byron played guitars, tambourine, hamonica and shakers. Both had great vocals, especially Rose. The melodies and rhythms are skilled and it's great to listen to, with lots of feeling. It's good to hear more upbeat music - people often seem to get sucked into the melancholia trap.
BAREFOOT IN THE SAND
Following Mannekin Thoughts was four piece folk funk band Barefoot In The Sand. Singer Jenn Shelton has an deep, powerful and soulful voice, and the instrumentation from the guys is dynamic and unique. Not many bands would dream of putting aside the full drum kit in favour of a hand drum, but percussionist Jeremy Hantler not only played a variety of beats, he even did a solo! Hamish Maudie provided stable and creative bass lines, while Blair Pederson on the guitar had subtle and lovely riffs. Each musician was given their chance to shine.
There was obvious rapport between the members, which created a real feeling of harmony, quite aside from the lovely harmonies in the music.
The music overall is laid back yet interesting, with a solid groove. I will definitely be keeping my ears out for these two bands.
Tuesday, 3 July 2007
REVIEW: Lauren Thomson
SATURDAY 30TH JUNE
HAPPY
LAUREN THOMSON
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Lauren Thomson
Lauren with her husband Ben
HAPPY
LAUREN THOMSON
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
Lauren Thomson
Lauren with her husband BenFor me, the stand out performer of the week was Lauren Thomson, down to visit us from Auckland. From the moment she first started singing, she had the audience captivated, and each of her songs are gems.
Starting off with a haunting melody and subtle guitar playing, she moved to a more upbeat country song, and at one point even threw in a cover of Landslide. However I think her originals were just as good if not better than the legendary Stevie Nicks.
Lauren's voice is beautiful and engaging, and full of dynamics. It was very sweet when she asked her husband Ben up on stage to sing harmonies with her, and explained that the song, Our Love Is Due, was written about him just before they got together. Lauren has a glow about her, which is refreshing to see in a city where you come across so many world weary faces.
In all honesty, I didn't want to move for even a moment to take photo's. Lauren really did cast a spell over the place, and it was the highlight of a very busy musical week for me. She's definitely one to keep an eye open for, and I believe her EP, Our Love Is Due, is coming out soon.
Starting off with a haunting melody and subtle guitar playing, she moved to a more upbeat country song, and at one point even threw in a cover of Landslide. However I think her originals were just as good if not better than the legendary Stevie Nicks.
Lauren's voice is beautiful and engaging, and full of dynamics. It was very sweet when she asked her husband Ben up on stage to sing harmonies with her, and explained that the song, Our Love Is Due, was written about him just before they got together. Lauren has a glow about her, which is refreshing to see in a city where you come across so many world weary faces.
In all honesty, I didn't want to move for even a moment to take photo's. Lauren really did cast a spell over the place, and it was the highlight of a very busy musical week for me. She's definitely one to keep an eye open for, and I believe her EP, Our Love Is Due, is coming out soon.
REVIEW: Achilles Botes and Shaun K Anderson
SATURDAY 30TH JUNE
HAPPY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
HAPPY
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah
ACHILLES BOTES
First up on Saturday night was Achilles Botes, accompanied by an impressive array of pedals, and even a tambourine which he tapped with his foot.
Achilles is one of those rare solo artists who actually manages to hold my attention for longer than two songs, which I'm always grateful for. There are so many solo artists around, and many of them are very good, but sadly (for I am even one of them) not all can really capture an audience and hold the stage with just themselves.
Achilles reminded me of The Eels, with a bit of Iron and Wine thrown in. But a little more sophisticated. He started off quite acoustic, and got rockier after a couple of songs, bringing in the loop pedal and other effects. He even sang in Greek! I'll definitely be on the look out to see Achilles play again.
In all honesty, though I find it hard to say anything less than lovely about a singer/songwriter, I was a little underwhelmed with Shaun's set at Happy on Saturday. I'm wondering if perhaps Shaun is more of a recording artist. His quiet laid back songs also called to mind Iron and Wine, his guitar style is lovely, and his gentle, breathy voice is easy to listen to. However I did find myself getting a little bored, as it was quiet and there weren't a lot of dynamics.
First up on Saturday night was Achilles Botes, accompanied by an impressive array of pedals, and even a tambourine which he tapped with his foot.Achilles is one of those rare solo artists who actually manages to hold my attention for longer than two songs, which I'm always grateful for. There are so many solo artists around, and many of them are very good, but sadly (for I am even one of them) not all can really capture an audience and hold the stage with just themselves.
Achilles reminded me of The Eels, with a bit of Iron and Wine thrown in. But a little more sophisticated. He started off quite acoustic, and got rockier after a couple of songs, bringing in the loop pedal and other effects. He even sang in Greek! I'll definitely be on the look out to see Achilles play again.
SHAUN K ANDERSON
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