Each week, Rolling Stone AU/NZ rounds up our top New Zealand music highlights from the past seven days. Here’s what stood out:
Fat Freddy’s Drop – “Slo Mo”
Fat Freddy’s Drop delivers smooth grooves on “Slo Mo,” the funky title track from their upcoming album featuring Louis Baker.
Wiri Donna – In My Chambers
Since being picked as Rolling Stone AU/NZ’s Eight Kiwi Artists Tipped to Take Over in early 2023, Wiri Donna continues to flourish with her new sophomore EP In My Chambers. This rock-driven collection was recorded with James Goldsmith and has Donna gearing up for a six-date national tour next month.
Daily J – “Tastes Like Forever”
Another solid summer jam from Daily J. This track is the third single from the indie rock five-piece’s upcoming second album and was written to capture the feeling of falling for someone who really sticks with you.
Corrella – “How Will I Know”
Returning with their sun-soaked sound, Tāmaki Makaurau band Corrella previews their upcoming album Skeletons with “How Will I Know,” set for release in November.
Robinson – “David Blaine”
Robinson’s latest single comes to life with a cinematic music video. “Can’t wait for you to see my twisted fantasy,” she teases.
Cassie Henderson – The Yellow Chapter
Cassie Henderson makes waves with her EP, led by “Seconds To Midnight (11:59),” topping airwaves and Shazam NZ’s top 10. Next month, she’ll tour with Frankie Venter and Max Allais and hit major festival stages over the summer period.
Papercity – “Sofa”
Tāmaki Makaurau’s Papercity returns with “Sofa,” an emo-tinged, synth-pop track about hidden struggles and personal isolation, voiced by lead singer Alex.
Rachel Leo – “Good God”
Rachel Leo embraces a fresh start with “Good God.” Produced by Joel Jones, the track feels like a laid-back escape from what no longer serves.
Adam Hattaway – “Ain’t No Suprise”
Ōtautahi’s Adam Hattaway builds momentum for his upcoming album High Horse (produced by Marlon Williams) with this nostalgia-infused track. Paired with an interactive video game directed by Finn Johansson, it reveals Hattaway’s love for 90s gaming.
L.A. Mitchell – “Mother”
A soaring track from L.A. Mitchell (Lauren Barus), “Mother” explores the push and pull between parent and child. “It’s a lament,” says Barus, “from a parent that this world isn’t fit to raise a child in. That what you have to do to meet the needs materially directly impacts your ability to meet their needs emotionally, and that we constantly compromise and constantly lament having to compromise.”
Jason Parker – “Happy Days”
Closing the list is Jason Parker’s “Happy Days,” an autobiographical track inspired by his brother’s ever-optimistic outlook, bringing hope to life’s challenging moments.
