June brings more excitement with new releases from Aotearoa artists. Check out the latest highlights from Joe Ghatt, Eli Superflyy, Jessica Leigh, Ray Leslie, Earth Tongue, Reiki Ruawai, and Ringlets, below.
Joe Ghatt – Caper
Joe Ghatt’s second album, titled Caper, is here. The psychedelic groover explores a more exotic and percussive sound, drawing on memories of moving to Spain as a young teen with his family.
“During the making of Caper, my music taste ventured out toward the styles of music that were more prevalent and familiar to me growing up,” explains Ghatt. “I was listening to more Latin, Afro, Bossa Nova and Flamenco. I was drawn to the nylon string more than ever, which I have a strong connection with as it’s what I first began playing around with when my family moved to south of Spain as a young teen.”
Eli Superflyy – “No No”
Eli Superflyy has dropped the second single from his upcoming debut album and it’s a must-listen. The Wellington alt-rock/pop artist delivers fuzzy indie pop with a massive thrashing chorus and dazzling DIY-style visuals directed by Damin McCabe and Riley Coughlin.
Jessica Leigh – “heaven to me”
The Nelson-born singer-songwriter returns with upbeat synth pop in her latest song, blending ethereal vocals with catchy lyrics about a new crush.
Ray Leslie – “I Still Love You (ft. Crystal Chen)”
Ray Leslie and Crystal Chen team up on this bittersweet new song. Leslie’s laidback flows blend perfectly with Chen’s lush harmonies, delivering heartfelt lyrics about two people drifting apart while holding onto love.
Earth Tongue – Great Haunting
Currently supporting Ty Segall in Europe, Earth Tongue’s second album has arrived. Titled Great Haunting, the fuzz-rock duo unleash an almighty (and complimentary) racket. Gussie Larkin (vocals, guitar) and Ezra Simons (vocals, drums) amplify their promise from 2019’s Floating Being, exploring a more energetic sound on Great Haunting.
Reiki Ruawai – “In Time”
Reiki Ruawai is back with his second single of 2024, “In Time”, and it’s one not to be missed. The soulful Raglan-based R&B artist pays homage to the classic sounds of Motown on his latest song, which blends together Reiki’s striking vocals with memorable lyrics about falling in love with your best friend.
Ringlets – “New Life”
Last but not least, tune into the post-punk four-piece Ringlets who follow up their first single of the year with a visually eye-popping video for “New Life” to match.
