Amplifier

03.09.10

No prizes for guessing the big music news this week is the Music Awards... as yesterday the VNZMA finalists for 2010 were announced alongside the announcement that Legacy Award and NZ Music Hall of Fame induction goes to Shihad and Street Chant, The Naked & Famous and Home Brew form critics' choice line-up. Not to forget that

The awards team this year really have gone to town with the number of activities in and around these awards which is exciting, especially for those outside of Auckland, as three VNZMA finalists will be hitting the road for Finalists Showcase events in Wellington and Christchurch. 

Now if RIANZ could just explain their genre definitions - I mean what is roots and what isn't?

For those of you who find awards and all they represent a bit of a yawn, here is some music... from us to you - feeling better now? 

Free Downloads: 

Kezia Nell - Don't Waste The Pretty

Blessed with silky tones and sassy poise, svelte chanteuse Kezia Nell announces her return with her forthcoming debut album Black, White & Shades of Grey a stunning and eclectic showcase of her engaging range of styles.

A uniquely old soul, Kezia was reared on a diet of 60's soul and psychedelia which is reflected in the new album. Best described as 'eclectica" this album moves from sultry soul to rockabilly. While Kezia's voice recalls the powerfully husky sounds of Loretta Lynn and Elkie Brooks it retains a distinct identity of its own.

A common flair for Burlesque inspired performance, ensures a visual as well as aural feast. Her performance is playful with a nod to the 1950s glamour and sexiness of Betty Page. While drawing on this cabaret style she retains her rock in roll sensibilities, interacting with her band and the audience. Her style has been coined 'Marilyn Monroe meets Blondie'.

Don't Waste The Pretty the first single to be taken from the forthcoming album is free to you for a week from today thanks to Kezia.

Susan Rose - Mr Right

2010 continues to be a memorable year for the Wairoa based Susan Rose as she is recognised for the success of her debut album This Is My Story by being nominated for two categories at this years Maori Music Awards taking place at Hawkes Bay Opera House, Hastings on Friday September 10. 

The two categories are Best Maori Female Solo Artist and Best Maori Pop album. Susan Rose is delighted by the nominations. 'I put my heart and soul into this album along with a lot of hard work and as a proud Maori to be nominated is a thrill'. 

Since the release of This Is My Story Susan has been busy on the promotional trail appearing at Malls, Record Stores, School's, Matariki's, Kapahaka competitions, a prestigious appearance as the pre‐match entertainment at the NZ Maori v England Rugby match at McLean Park and various TV shows such as Good Morning, Hei Kinaki Maori TV's Anzac Day concert and Homai Te Pakipaki the show that introduced her to New Zealand audiences.

To celebrate her nominations Susan has given us Mr Right to share with you free for a week from today.

Find out how Susan fares and watch some amazing performances in the Maori Music Awards, screening on Maori Television on Saturday, September 18 at 9.30 PM. 

Release Of The Day:
Alastair Galbraith - Mass

Mass is the new album from Alastair Galbraith, released by Siltbreeze, the US label responsible for Galbraith's debut LP from 1993, Morse.

Of course it seems entirely sensible to reunite artist and label, but while Morse followed traditional avenues of rugged folk narrative tinged with psychedelic foxing, Mass is an unchartered, one-way trip through a world of ritual.

Consisting of 22 tracks, Mass runs the gamut: broken guitars, percussive loops, backwards tracking, a (homemade) glass harmonium, lullabies, bagpipe thievery and much more.

Mass also features performances from Amiel Balester, Michael Kohler and David Kilgour.

Galbraith, while originally from the Flying Nun stable, has for many years been better known for his experimental works, ranging from early folk-derived songs to sound installations and releases with Bruce Russell of The Dead C.
 

Gigs:

Here are our pick for live music for this week as found on the Makuna gig guide.

For a full breakdown on whats on offer around the countries pubs and clubs take a look at Makuna

Have a great day.
Ed