Haere mai to Rolling Stone NZ‘s weekly roundup of the best New Zealand music from the past seven days. Dive into our favourite new releases by Aotearoa artists between October 30th-November 5th below.
Christoph El Truento – Circle of Friends
Local producer extraordinaire Christoph El Truento (Avantdale Bowling Club) has released his much-anticipated new album Circle of Friends, featuring an all-star line-up of Aotearoa musicians including Tom Scott, Ladi6, Mā, Julien Dyne, Guy Harrison, Cory Champion, Jeremy Toy, Mara TK, and JY Lee. Be sure to check out the absolutely charming illustrated music video for El Truento’s latest single “Drip” (ft. Ladi6) out now.
Mermaidens – Mermaidens
Pōneke’s Mermaidens, the powerhouse trio of Gussie Larkin, Lily West, and Abe Hollingsworth, have just unleashed their self-titled album. Produced by Samuel Flynn Scott of The Phoenix Foundation, this brilliant record solidifies the band’s musical synergy, delivering a striking collection of bold and punchy rock songs. Don’t miss the 90s-inspired video for “Sour Lips”, featuring vibrant visuals by Ezra Simons, complete with slushies and goats. So good!
Grayson Gilmour – Holding Patterns
Grayson Gilmour’s Holding Patterns marks his return after six years. His comeback album blends propulsive synth-driven music on a largely improvised collection. With the collaboration of stellar local instrumentalists like Cory Champion and Olivia Campion, the Pōneke multi-instrumentalist, film composer and So So Modern co-founder draws inspiration from becoming a new parent during the pandemic, vividly reflected in the dreamy lead single, “Here We Are”. The album is a rich and introspective journey from start to finish, complemented by kaleidoscope visual clips that will brighten up your day.
Jessica Leigh – Lightbeam
Emerging from Wellington, rising talent Jessica Leigh has unveiled her new synthpop-infused EP Lightbeam. The EP’s sparkling title track captures the singer-songwriter’s thoughts on the enchanting world of new love.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGn1Nd7YZ90
Luke Thompson – INFATUATER
Local folk artist Luke Thompson ventures into fresh sonic territory with his self-produced seven-track album, INFATUATER. This collection masterfully weaves synthy alt-pop elements together with his tender vocals, creating an expansive musical experience.
Sanoi – Echoes of Home
Newly signed to Loop Recordings, Aotearoa-based German electronic producer Sanoi’s Echoes of Home album nods to his German roots and the Berlin electronic music scene. It’s a beautifully crafted mix of warm, melodic house music with soothing piano pieces and includes a collaboration with Christchurch artist Beacon Bloom on “Silver”.
