Ōtautahi’s Adam Hattaway is taking the reins in 2024, today announcing a new album, High Horse, set for release on Friday, November 8th.
Produced by New Zealand singer-songwriter Marlon Williams, we’ve already heard the knockout title track with Tāmaki Makaurau’s Erny Belle – a real highlight from his recent gig at Wine Cellar. Now, Hattaway returns with a new single and video, “Good Times.”
Inspired by Arthur Fellig, known as Weegee, whose raw crime scene photography captured the gritty underbelly of New York City in the 1930s, “Good Times” emerged in a dream – much like many of Hattaway’s sprawling tracks. The song broods with a slow tempo and a dark, gritty sound that showcases his evolving range. You can watch the fittingly moody video below.
“I don’t often sing that way. Marlon got me to explore many different vocal styles throughout the album, I accessed parts of my voice that I didn’t know I had,” he shares.
This marks Hattaway’s sixth full-length album in six years, following his 2023 release, Anthology 2018-2023. The new record takes a significant turn, leaning more toward a stripped-down approach than his earlier rock and roll ventures, with Williams aiming for a “frustratingly quiet” sound led by acoustic guitar.
“I didn’t know it was just going to be the four of us most of the time, so it was very hands-on,” Hattaway explains. The small group plays nearly all the instruments and shares backing vocal duties, exploring a fresh sound for Hattaway and bandmate Elmore Jones.
Adam and his band, The Haunters, will embark on an eight-date tour of Aotearoa and Melbourne, including a support slot for Jon Toogood and a performance at the Sanctuary Sounds music festival. Tickets are available from adamhattaway.com.
Adam Hattaway & The Haunters 2024 Australia & New Zealand Tour
Friday, November 8th
Ōtepoti, Pearl Diver
Saturday, November 9th
Ophir, Ophir Peace Memorial Hall
Saturday, November 16th
Melbourne, Northcote Social Club – Supporting Jon Toogood
Friday, November 22nd
Melbourne, Merri Creek Tavern
Saturday, November 30th
Ōtautahi, The Loons
Friday, December 6th
Tāmaki Makaurau, Whammy Bar
Saturday, December 7th
Takapau, Sanctuary Sounds Festival