Every week, Rolling Stone AU/NZ keeps you tuned in to the freshest sounds from Aotearoa.
Catch up on previous coverage of WHO SHOT SCOTT, Theia, Frankie Venter, Wiri Donna, and MOZIE.
Here’s what you might have missed last week.
Mim Jensen, “Same Blood”
Mim Jensen bares it all with “Same Blood”, the brutal yet tender lead single from her upcoming sophomore EP, Shadow of the Gift, set to drop in 2025. It’s a raw reflection on toxic family ties, delivered with Jensen’s vulnerability and strength.
Soft Plastics, “Drown!”
Taite Prize nominees Soft Plastics take a deep dive into the 20-something grind with “Drown!”, a track that captures the dread of monotony and the itch for change. “It’s that feeling of sinking into life’s monotony, even when the desire for change becomes overwhelming,” the band explains. Equal parts cathartic and contemplative, “Drown!” is the soundtrack to feeling stuck — and finding your way out.
Lola, “Under”
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist Lola unveils Under, a reflective track inspired by moments of solitude and unease. Featuring electronic elements from Kédu Carlö and a desert-tinged sitar performance by Tiare Kelly, the song builds a layered, atmospheric sound. “Tiare plays with such skill and reverence, and it made the track feel almost magical in its final form,” Lola says.
Damien Binder, Heartful
Perth-based New Zealand songwriter Damien Binder delivers five tracks of optimistic modern rock with his new EP, Heartful. Binder credits last year’s Bright Side for inspiring this latest chapter. “With that energy and momentum I found myself writing again and what I channelled was lyrically direct, unadorned and personal,” he reflects. “The resulting songs are more candid than on previous records.”
Mokotron, “Ko Wai Koe?”
Mokotron shares “Ko Wai Koe?”, the electric final single from their new album Waerea (out December 6 via Sunreturn). The track arrives with a sci-fi-infused music video by animator Simon Ward and Māori digital artist Kereama Taepa. “Kereama’s work — that sci-fi pop culture Māori crossover is just my kaupapa and era,” Mokotron says.
Jack Panther, “Why Won’t We”
London-based Kiwi artist Jack Panther gets deep in his feelings on “Why Won’t We”, a lush alt-pop ode to unrequited love. “The music just poured out of me in one take,” Panther recalls.
Ella Minehan & Altitude, “Bullet”
Frequent collaborators Ella Minehan and Altitude hit the dancefloor with “Bullet”, a drum and bass banger that’s all about dodging the metaphorical hits.
OFFBEAT COWBOY – IN THE RAIN
OFFBEAT COWBOY’s debut album IN THE RAIN delivers 10 tracks of genre-bending alternative pop, blending self-reflection with raw emotion.
La Coco, Into the Light
Auckland-based vocalist La Coco shines on her new EP Into the Light, blending soul and electronica with warmth. Focus track Follow Me (The Remake) is a highlight — rich, soulful, and smooth.
