NZBlues

Update

2008-06-06T00:37:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since we provided an update to NZBlues.com - Rick Bryant has been writing songs, maybe we will spend a day with him on camera preparing for the next set of gigs. The best of these will be presented in various smaller formats in upcoming shows. Watch for details on NZBlues.com

In the meantime, head over to the Windy City Strugglers and keep up to date. The Strugglers are one of the best blues bands you could find - they have been around since the early days when Bill Lake took an interest in great music we all know about now, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf. Rick Bryant joined and the Strugglers started their long road.

Roots music, expertly rendered with classly simplicity ringing with an authenticy that's rare to behold. It's that kind of sound that everyone gets - some of it - most of it - is unreasonably good.

It's going to have to be a big year for The Strugglers, one of these years. This is their 40th anniversary, you see...

It was sad to hear of the death of one of the real greats Mr Bo Diddley - who unfortunately passed away this last week.

Auckland Gigs

2008-05-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

As Gray Barlett celebrates his 50th Anniversary gig at Sky City Theatre (tickets are under $60) and NZ London Jazz for free - Nathan Haines and Chris Cox play Sky City Bar 3: Cnr Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland CBD each Sunday in May.

Producers - if you want to get blogging rights to this blog (for NZ Blues gigs only, please) write to me and convince me that you know what you are talking about and I may invite you.

Interested in any bands, youtube posts you want to see on this site.

Perfect Pitch

2008-05-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Useful pitch training programme called Perfect Pitch.

Review

2008-03-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

Split Enz at the Vector Arena

Neil Finn image (APN) NZ Herald review

Split Enz on Saturday night.

Consumate performance by the seasoned giants of the New Zealand sound, whatever that was. Their legacy of popular songs is both dream like and crazy happy trips into the fantasitc - elements of science fiction and pure rompping insanity decorate solid tunes that your memory will never release you from. Unlike many of the hooky tune genre, Enz songs are a joy to have rattling about in the chambers of internal radio. Their real genius is however the compositions and ideas in their music. Evident in an early roaring instrumental and other unreleased material from the seventies that could just as easily be released today and feel relevant. Reviewing rock shows is itself an art and I do not pretend to do that, but if I can make some sketchy impressions of the experience of the concert - it was that it left me with the feeling of a perfectly rounded show. A theatrical experience that held more sway that most dramatic productions. Staging with this level of visual resonance - is worthy of filming, proper filming with a director. The light show and back drops melded with the music - creating a new world.

The band were flawless. Tim Finn's lurching dance style recalled the asylum values of early Enz. Why the early Enz is so terrifically menancing - something quite unique in his voice. His solo in the middle of the show was joined by Eddie Rayner and some Neil. Neil's role in the band never felt lopsided, well nearly never. Consumate genius songwriter that he is.

Highlights of the night included Six Months in a Leaky Boat and History Never Repeats - I just wish I had this show on video.

How did the Vector Arena cope with the Enz?

Split Enz wisely played with a moderate mix. The venue has a concrete floor and lots of reflective surfaces that limits how much noise can be poured into the venue. With a moderate mix, however - the audience can hear every word and leave after the gig with their hearing intact. The floor is covered with seating. As soon as the band came on, everyone stood. Making the seating a danger and then the security felt they had to police the aisles. It was all a little pointless. Put a layer of rubber over the painted concrete and make a giant dance floor. Otherwise, the venue was suprisingly good. The lighting rig is spectacular when driven this well.

Sharon Jones - review

2008-03-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings was the standout act at WOMAD playing on both Saturday and Sunday nights.

Check out the NZ Herald review.

So many acts...

2008-03-14T01:25:00.000-07:00

Ray Davies (of The Kinks) and his band play the Civic Theatre on Monday 24th March. March 22nd for 12 hours the Blues Fest NZ plays in Dakota Fields, Coromandel and of course March 14th - 16th is WOMAD. Would love to hear of readers experiences at any of these gigs. Beyond talking about it, I have no involvement with any of them, but I have never professed much more than an interest in the Blues and over the years this has turned to a love of what I hear and see. But someone else's festival, no cameras thank-you - and I am basically a photographer rather than a musicologist; a photographer who has some ability with digital video production. There is a lot of interest in these events in the media and plenty of people will go making the blues a kind of mainstream part of Kiwi cultural identity. It always was, we just were not so much aware of it, but kept it secret from each other, from ourselves and of course from the world. Haven't things changed. It is not just us, it is the world. And more and more see our land as the epitome of what is good about preserving nature and protecting it from our hands. One way is to make music. Hard to say why it works, but it works real good.

Hollie Smith article

2008-03-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

Hollie Smith and other blues artists interviewed in the NZ Herald with the usual questions about the Blues - they are all playing at this weekend's Coromandel Blues festival - on the news page of nzblues.com.

Site relocated

2008-02-08T23:12:00.000-08:00

The site has been relocated, it is now being served closer to the target markets which are not just in New Zealand. We are here to serve information and content about New Zealand artists but not just to New Zealand. New Zealand users should experience occassional slows but better availability. The reason for this is the news of international cables being cut in the Middle East - which has hidden some of our sites - yet they were still up in the USA. Odd. We determined that it was best to find a USA host that was always going to be available, so we have reconfigured our software to cope with different versions of PHP, SQL and so forth. If there are any other things that are missing or do not work, please contact me, info@nzblues.com

Having built a significant audience in New Zealand, with a way to release NZ Blues music and video, we now are looking for a larger audience.

NZBlues.com

2008-02-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

Our "parent" site - if there be such a thing, www.NZBlues.com - is having a server change to accommodate a larger audience of Non-NZ fans.

Blues cruise sets sail - 21 Dec 2007 - NZ Herald: Entertainment News, Reviews and Gossip from New Zealand and around the World

2007-12-22T10:25:00.000-08:00

Blues cruise sets sail - 21 Dec 2007 - NZ Herald: Entertainment News, Reviews and Gossip from New Zealand and around the World

The Gig

2007-12-01T07:24:00.000-08:00

Gigs that go well are jewels. This one did. It had its flaws as they so often may but they were nothing compared to the sight of a granny dancing through three numbers.

Unfortunately due to circumstances a band member was held up so the support act took the slack and did more. Calamity Family performed "Hip Hop" at a Blues gig. I hate hip hop but this was simply great stuff. The audience responded strongly to this fine performance - unpredictable hip hop with music and sophisticated poetry and ripe in the same way a blues number may be. Watch out for them. Damn fine.

Then the Jive Bombers started gradually to invade the stage as though it was not really noticed, and fairly then the show just started, with There was a Time. Everything seemed right except the camera I hired - was strange to me, and one of the installed white lights had stopped working for some reason. But it did not matter. I like saying that - because the "it will be right on the night" philosophy is the only one that works. The first half of the show went extremely well with highlights "Rum Jungle" when the BVs seemed to engage. I also really like the new BVs on Boss, for which they must be commended. The band were fairly tightly packed on the stage. In a way this works as it is more about the music. This is one of the more competant back lines in the business. Neil Watson shone like the star that he is. Ross Burge and Tony MacMaster held it all together. Most of all, Rick Bryant was in fine voice.

It's been a long day. more later...

The night before

2007-11-30T01:19:00.001-08:00

There are just a few readers out there that may be interested in the inner world of the artists that create the blues. Not for that reason did I start filming Rick Bryant four years ago, but for another, completely different reason.

And that is a love of good art - art that is going to last the distance. Rick Bryant is famous, sure. Do you follow his music? You are probably part of a sort of musical who's who if you do.

He is one of a handful of artists writing original blues songs. He has worked with Gordon and top sound engineers to shake all the dust off in the studio. At first it was a few songs then a CD then it was a double then triple CD.

Does video make the live events less valuable? No, it makes them far more valuable. I have realised you can not film original experience. The being there is the vital part. Videos retrieve power from the essential experience of the event. My aim is the capture reminders of the experience of the performance in the shoot.

Ticket sales to this show have been better than usual. There are door sales (most unseated).

It is the vital performance of singer - the old music, but done new and very much of the now - like the members of the amazing Dap-Kings behind Amy Winehouse. Consider, there's hundreds of years of blues experience behind her sound. And this twelve piece, The Jive Bombers, has an extraordinary vintage to live up to.

First off the band - it is a very good one with players like Kingsley Melhuish on trumpets and Chris Watts on tenor sax, not to mention Neil Watson (Anika Moa) on guitar, Gordon Spittle and Ross Burge (Mutton Birds, Dave Dobbyn, Don McGlashen) on drums and the very safe hands of Tony McMaster on bass. Is that everyone.

Certainly not. Check out the new BVs. Holly has a new song - the blues like it was in the twenties - plenty evil - if you get my drift.

The Jive Bombers is some of the best musicians doing music written by one of our most active musicians. He did two gigs last weekend - not just the Jubilation one - but a Windy City Strugglers one as well.

The Jive Bombers may be more relaxed but rehearsal schedules like this are extraordinarily demanding. Just remembering the words for three completely different shows (plus his other band, The Top Scientists) show a mental dexterity of musical creativity way off the scale).

You may not like all of his songs, but many of them grow on you. The band will concentrate on their recording project to Rick Bryant standards and release this stuff when it is ready. He is a bit of a Kiwi legend.

Hands up who would buy this CD

You can be The Boss

Perfect Woman

Rum Jungle

55

Me oh My

Cruel But Fair

Respect

Laid Low

Dog

Used to be friends

Good Woman

Daddy

I would.

Mailing list updated

2007-11-19T01:43:00.000-08:00

The mailing list software was updated in a somewhat rushed fashion as the Government announced changes in the spam regulations. This introduced a problem, but it has since been fixed. Am now reviewing things, but it would help if a few of you just click on Mailing List and confirm your email address today. It really would.

Temple Wire Update

2007-11-18T03:32:00.002-08:00

Funding and Grants

Next funding deadlines:
NZ on Air: www.nzonair.govt.nz Friday 11 January 2008
New Recording Friday 18 January 2008
Creative NZ 29 February 2008 www.creativenz.govt.nz
Outward Sound (NZ Music Export) www.nzmusic.org.nz December 17, 2007

Radio Active 89FM presents Thirty years in Thirty Hours, an epic 30 hour continuous broadcast featuring the best of yesteryear with the best of the now.

We are interested in hearing from:

-ex-active staff and DJ's

-current or old school Wellington musicians who have been a part of the Active sound

We'd love to receive any visual / audio archival stuff that exists outside of our offices.

Contact: Clair Urbahn 04 801 9899 / clair@radioactive.co.nz

Looking for DJs and Cover Bands (in particular) to list on my site www.theshowshop.com as available acts for bookings. Send their promo photo (not in poster size!) and a one to two paragraph bio to me at Rebecca@theshowshop.com

Acts Wanted for Aotea Square Christmas (AK)

Opportunities to perform infront of a large audience at 'Christmas in the City' at Aotea Square Markets. In December we're putting together '12 days of Christmas' with live entertainment during lunchtimes. If interested email me at kellyw@the-edge.co.nz

MUSEXPO 08

MUSEXPO is one of the world’s premiere music, media and technology conferences and will host its third annual event at Hyatt Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. April 27 – 30, 2008

The early bird registration of $525 (USD) expires December 31st, 2007.

Registration includes complimentary networking breakfasts, lunches, tea-times and evening buffet dinner/cocktail parties as well as all the interactive panels/seminars and showcase events, as well as the international networking lounge and business centre we’ll have at MUSEXPO 2008 for the duration of the conference for registered delegates.

www.musexpo.net

The Third Annual Art of Record Production Conference Brisbane
December 10 and 11 2007
http://www.arpbrisbane.com/

Temple Wire uodaT

2007-11-18T03:32:00.001-08:00

How to get tickets for less

2007-11-09T07:44:00.000-08:00

Pssst ... we hear that members B Reserve Tickets released this weekend are $10 less than A Reserve tickets but table bookings who email NZBlues may qualify for a service upgrade.

Just say "Service Upgrade" in your email subject and send to Nicholas info@nzblues.com (with your ticket numbers).

Not many but I thought you should know. BCard/Student discounts may be available on bookings for a limited time.

I remember last year trying to turn up on the night at a show that still had two weeks to run - to find the whole season had sold-out. I learned my lesson and tell acts who ask me to sell tickets for their gigs.

Karen q Temple: NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin

2007-10-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Karen q Temple hide details 7:30 pm (7 hours ago)
to art@sfsw.net
date Oct 29, 2007 7:30 PM
subject NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin

Hey there

Here’s the latest hit of music industry info. Apologies about the inconsistency of getting the newsletters out – I’ve been having horrendous problems with my new computer and despite a new hard drive, optical drive, motherboard and fan I’m still having problems!!

Please feel free to forward on and/or reprint part or all of the newsletter with a credit to Temple NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin www.temple.co.nz. (Most) back issues are at www.temple.co.nz

If you have anything you would like included (FREE!) in the next newsletter, please flick me an email by Friday. I don’t include gig listings, sorry, unless it involves an “opportunity” eg open mics

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Performance & Placement Opportunities

Flax Café is proud to present the West Auckland Music Showcase.

A night of performances by fabulous West Auckland musicians started last year by Charlotte Johansen now has a new home.

Tina Klay from the newly opened Flax Café at Kiwi Valley, 308 Henderson Valley, Henderson is really excited to be offering a venue for local musicians to play and showcase their talents.

The first Showcase night is Friday 23 November starting at 7.30 sharp with 5 performers.

This time Charlotte has decided not only showcase West Auckland musicians but also West Auckland. So performance slots will also be available to musicians from outside West Auckland who want to play here.

Anyone who would like to perform should contact Charlotte at charlotte@charlottejohansen.co.nz

Djs , Bands and Promoters

Waiheke Island now has a great new bar. 'The Matiatia' formerly 'The Harbourmaster'.

Opening 17 November 2007. Newly renovated and under new ownership.

Capacity 600 people plus. Complete with a garden bar, it allows bands to play inside or outside.

For bookings contact: Nigel Erb 021669355 or email nigel@pursuitofmusic.co.nz

Hazel Babbington, Aotea Markets Manager (AK), is on the lookout for some musical acts for the Markets as we come into summer.

At this stage it looks like there will be spots for a few hours each Saturday (each time featuring a different act). Timings and payment are negotiable (as are other ideas such as a stall to sell CDs - we're all ears!), so if you think this is you, please do make contact. Hazel 09 307 5377, or HazelB@the-edge.co.nz

Musician Solo Artist @ The Pig & Whistle (Rotorua)

The Place: “A bar with atmosphere, historic charm and style”

The Pig and Whistle was built in 1940 and served as the local Police Station until 1969. The building was used as a Probation Office and a city market until 1993 when it was then leased and refitted to become a restaurant and historic pub. The Pig & Whistle as it is today, opened in December 1994. Charming, friendly, and comfortable are words that best describe the pub style environment that captivates you upon entering the most classical, elegant building in central Rotorua. The relaxed atmosphere attributes to the unique working environment which is fun and exciting. Our customers are varied, since we attract not only our locals but tourists from around the world. This international element makes for interesting conversation. Entertainment is a key focus and a definite plus if you enjoy listening to live bands whilst you work.

The Job: "Acoustic Guitarist"
Solo artist required to play a range of “easy listening” background music at our stylish, relaxed, pub on Wednesday and Sunday evenings. Own P.A System required.

Benefits: “The WOW Factor”.

• Competitive hourly rate – benchmarked with independent annual salary reviews

• Discounts on food and beverage purchases

So come and join our team - where excellence is achieved and people really do make a difference

Email CV to mary@pigandwhistle.co.nz Or phone us to have a chat about how we can further your musical career in the hospitality industry. Mary - 07) 3473025

We are a successful Auckland corporate covers band looking for vocalists to be part of our growing team. Pitch us a demo, let us come see you at a gig. Must be professional, reliable, charismatic, great on stage presence, fun with a sense of humour, good strong range and able toharmonise easily.

Please contact info@diva-entertainment.net

Open Mic Night at The Clare Inn Irish Pub (AK)

Every wedensday evening 8.30 onwards

274-278 Dominion Road Mount Eden.tel:09 623 8233

All open mic enquiries: Walter 09 627 4996 021 2236 425 walworld@xtra.co.nz

Or John 027 346 4892

Quality pa and lights, professional attitude, Great atmosphere, All performers welcome.

Expressions of Interest close at the end of November for Ignition – Hamilton’s Fringe Festival (June 2008)

Ignition is an open-access arts festival providing a vehicle and opportunities for young and emerging talent to present their creative project. This festival is being built to promote local talent, with support provided by some national experimental, emerging and cutting edge theatre.

Contact Adrienne Clothier at HCAC (07) 838-6424 adrienne@hcac.org.nz

The Great Escape Festival accepting online band applications

The Great Escape is one of Europe's leading Showcase Festivals and Music Industry Conventions. A variety of insightful industry talks, panel debates and celebrity interviews are run alongside performances from 250 new local and international artists, themed parties and club nights in over 25 walkable venues.

It will take place in the vibrant, seaside city of Brighton & Hove, UK from 15th to 17th May 2008, bringing together all the key elements of the live and recorded music industries to entertain, educate and delight everyone from experienced music industry campaigners to those who just want to experience really good music.

We really want to encourage a number of kiwi acts to apply for next year.

For more info on the festival:

www.myspace.com/greatescapefestival

www.escapegreat.com

Tainui Waka Kapa Haka groups interested in participating in the Tainui Waka Kapa Haka 2008 festival should submit a Registration of Interest by 30th November.

Contact Kahurangi Muru or phone 027 392 1704 kahumuru@gmail.com

2008 New Zealand International Comedy Festival will run in both Auckland and Wellington from the 18 April - 11 May 2008.

The official performers’ website will be launched on Thursday 1 November. This will contain all the Festival and venue information that you will need to apply.

Applications for both Auckland and Wellington will be due in on Friday 30 November.

If you have any questions in the mean time, or would like to discuss your show concept please contact me either at kylie@comedyfestival.co.nz or on 09 309 9241.

North by Northeast (NXNE), Canada's #1 showcase for the best new independent music and music-related films opens band & film submissions for the festival on November 1, 2007.

www.nxne.com

Looking For Music For Video Game & Film / Movie Placement

Opportunities for AirPlay Direct members (ie you need to join them to submit your song). www.AirPlayDirect.com. If interested, please submit your AirPlay Direct artist DPK to office@airplaydirect.com

1/ Pop/Rock and Punk/Pop Instrumental tracks for video games. Mid and up tempo songs are needed for 2 different projects. The deadline for submissions is November 15th. Please make sure to indicate that you are submitting music for the Rock video game opportunities.

2/ Country / Blues / Americana tracks for an upcoming film project. All styles and tempos more roots music and less Nashville style. The deadline is November 15th. Please make sure to indicate that you are submitting music for the Country / Blues / Americana film / movie opportunity.

3/ Hip-Hop and R&B instrumentals needed for 2 different projects. We need mid and up tempo tracks, and a couple of extreme tracks for a new movie trailer. The deadline is November 10th. Indicate that you are submitting music for the Hip-Hop / R&B opportunity.

4/ Christmas music of all styles, but they must be famous Public Domain songs. We have several projects and they all need some Christmas cheer. The deadline is November 1st.

Indicate that you are submitting music for the Christmas opportunity.

Need songs for newly signed artist Reggae and Hip hop

Hello everyone. I am looking for songs for an artist I am working with named Mesha. She is from the Island of Belize. She does Reggae and Hip hop. I am looking for a great little pop song that I can mould a cool track to. You can check outthe records I have done here: http://shopping.yahoo.com/p:Rich%20Tancredi:1927186188

Please email me rich@productioninfinity.com and I will give you a mailing address you can submit songs to.

Thank you

Rich Tancredi

Tom Fair offers another songwriter opportunity for those who may have what it takes.

"An old friend of mine, a vocalist who had a number of top ten hits in the '60s, has an album deal and is looking for material. I can only tell you that she does not want "boy-girl songs" or "death songs" - she wants songs with a universal theme - and that a favorite track of hers is R.E.M.'s "Losing My Religion." Those are your clues. You are welcome to submit (no more than 2) songs through me by sending mp3s and lyric sheets to: dynamic_events@hotmail.com." --- Tom Fair

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Promotional Opportunities

Free Music Promotion Opportunity

New magazine publication called LIFE. It is a quarterly lifestyle magazine that promotes positive living. We are looking for music related solicited material. If you have any press-releases or products due to be released, we would love to write about it. We can do interviews, reviews, featured articles and have advertising available. It is an 80 page - gloss full-colour magazine and currently has 10,000 distribution.

We are working on the content two months before it is released, and the magazine has a shelf-life of three months, so we need material that can be fore-seen and still relevant 4 months after submission.

We only have seven pages to cater, so please only send news-worthy material.

Or if you would like to be interviewed, please contact us.

If you are interested, please contact making.superman@gmail.com

Courtesy of making.superman Music PR Journalism

Indie World Network would like to extend an opportunity to you to showcase your work. We are currently accepting submissions for people's independent projects to be shown on our television channel, "Indie World".

Indie World will air this fall on URSCENE, which is an internet based television network with over 25 million viewers world wide. We are not talking video clips. It is real time television. URSCENE is the future of T.V., so whether you are an independent film maker, producer, writer, or musical artist looking to get great exposure, or network and meet the right people in this industry, then we have a place for you in our world. INDIE WORLD.

If you would like your works to be aired on Indie World please contact us for submission policies at

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Professional Development (Teachers, workshops, networking, publications available etc)

Hot Rock Singing Lessons (Wgtn)

Get the hot rock singing lessons with Cherry Gemstone and learn to shine like a star!

With twenty years of musical and performance experience Cherry will help you to gain:

Technique

Confidence

Theory Knowledge

Performance Pizzaz

Cherry also offers beginners piano and guitar lessons with a strong focus on song writing.

Contact Cherry Gemstone on : 021 121 4276 or cherry.gemstone@gmail.com

TEMPO - Music & Making It (Hamilton)

30th Nov - 2nd Dec – free entry

Hear from the music industry's best in one weekend. Get the tools for success and see how everyone else does it. Areas include: Music Technology, Song Writing, Touring, Media, Marketing and more.

http://www.hcac.org.nz/page/hcac_35.php

Boss are running a short 4 date clinic series in the Nth Island called Choose Your Weapon.

Australian Boss Demonstrator, Josh Munday will be running through the latest and greatest 'weapons' from Boss with which to assault your aural orifices.

Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and Hawkes Bay.

http://www.rockshop.co.nz/04/news/news_full.php?234

NZ Rockshop and Digidesign are pleased to invite you to attend the free Pro Tools Home Recording Clinic – AK, Wgtn, Chch, Dunedin

http://www.rockshop.co.nz/04/clinics/digidesign/digidesign.htm

Acting Training for Adults (GREAT for performance skills)

with tutor John Goudge - enrolling now for term 4

6 week courses on Monday or Wednesday evenings 7.30 – 10 pm, Rimu Glade Studio, 4 Rimu Rd, Waiatarua, Waitakere City, Auckland.

Monday night class: Introduction to Acting. November 5 – December 10

A class that opens up the incredible potential for acting in all. Conquer fear.

Wednesday night class: Acting Tune-Up. November 7 – December 12

This course will throw at you short scripts, characterisation studies & improvisations that will keep your actor’s mind agile & finding new things.

Both courses finish with a small performance on the final night.

Term fees: $125.

John has been drama tutoring for over a decade, (including six years at the Titirangi Theatre) & is a well-known West Auckland actor, director & musician. His studio in the bush of the Waitakere Ranges is a tranquil place to learn & develop.

For more information contact John (ph) 814 9744 or email goudgedrama@zip.co.nz

Rimu Rd is approx. 7 minutes up West Coast Rd from the Parrs Park roundabout in Glen Eden.)

Sonic Arts at the New Zealand School of Music: an intensive programme (BMus or BA) in the creative application of music technology, covering areas such as electroacoustic composition, live electronic performance, music for multimedia, spatialised sound, history/theory of electronic music and film music. For further information: dugal.mckinnon@nzsm.ac.nz, or visit www.nzsm.ac.nz/study/sonic-arts.aspx

Making Poetry Dangerous, with Sam Reed (Wgtn)

What is the difference between calling something ‘pretty’ and creating the sensation of blooming and dying on the page? This workshop will look at the craft of poetry for answers to this and other questions. Sam Reed’s poems have appeared in journals such as Colorado Review, Denver Quarterly and Beloit Poetry Journal.

The workshops run from 7 Jan to 24 Feb 2008, and are limited to 12 participants. They involve 2 x 3-hour meetings per week. Contact the International Institute of Modern Letters for further information: phone 04-463 6854, fax 04-463 6865, email modernletters@vuw.ac.nz or visit http://www.vuw.ac.nz/modernletters

Intellectual Property Guide for Maori recently launched

Available at http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/MultipageDocumentTOC____28180.aspx

Community advisers at Auckland City are hosting a unique networking event on Friday 23rd November.

This will be a valuable opportunity for community organisations to exchange skills and resources and of course – to network!

The event will be like a swap meet – where participants will exchange resources: with the expectation that what you request - you will receive!!

Each participant will prepare and bring along ONE exchangeable resource which will benefit another organisation. In addition, each participant will prepare and bring along ONE request which they believe will benefit their own organisation.

To ensure that the event runs effectively, we need to limit participant numbers to 40 people and have no more than two people per organisation attend. If there are two people from the same organisation, then each person needs to have prepared a different offer and request.

Requests and Offers can cover a really wide range of aspects which may include the following:

Physical Resources; e.g. furniture, stationery, computers, screens, data shows, overhead projector.

Human Resources; e.g. volunteers for a tree-planting day, an hour session with an IT database whizz, financial management training

Nothing offered or requested is too big or too small. What matters is that the offers and requests are realistic and genuine, are made with the full intention of being carried out and are of real benefit to the organisations attending.

The aim of the event is to match the Offers with the Requests.

In addition to the exchange of resources, the event will also allow participants to informally chat with one another and tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

The event is free. To register, please contact Judy Fishman, Ph: 354 2050, e-mail judy.fishman@aucklandcity.govt.nz no later than 4.30pm on Friday 16th November

If you have any questions regarding this event, please ring 379 2020 and ask to speak to a community adviser.

New Online Music Community

Allows singers, rappers and songwriters to collaborate with music producers to make hit songs. Our platform gives music producers the ability to open a free online music studio to market, promote and sell beats, instrumentals, and musical compositions. Artists can register (free) to browse and listen to royalty-free instrumental demo songs from any genre. When an artist finds an instrumental that matches their style and lyrics they can buy it, download it and record their vocals over it to make a hit. For more information, http://www.makehitsongs.com/

Free Business Development Courses Kapiti

Time Management – Creative and Services Sector

Tuesday 6 November 2007 9.30am - 12.30pm

Are you frustrated that many of your days seem to be unproductive?

If the words, "I ran out of time" or "I don't have time" come out of your mouth on a regular basis, this workshop is for you. Learn how to address the issues behind poor self management, which is what creates the feeling of being time poor.

Change Management – Creative and Services Sector

Thursday 8 November 2007 1.30pm - 4.30pm

Are you considering growth or expansion but are reluctant to expand due to lack of planning or strategic direction? Have you achieved some degree of success but want to expand your operation to another level of sophistication or business excellence? This workshop will enable you to understand how the key strategies of business work together and give you the knowledge and skills required to make the strategic changes in your business to accelerate growth.

Financial Systems and Planning – Creative and Services Sector

Wednesday 14 November 2007 10.00am – 1.00pm

Are your financial systems working for you? Do you need to put systems in place? This workshop will give methods to implement to ensure your financial obligations are met.

Holidays Act – General for all sectors

Thursday 15 November 2007 1.30pm - 4.30pm

Christmas Holidays are approaching fast. Do you know what your responsibilities are regarding Annual Leave, Public Holidays, Sick leave, Bereavement Leave, Holiday Records?

For more information and to book your place please contact Maureen McCormack at Nature Coast Ph: 06 3670524 or 04 2961169 or email her at maureen@naturecoast.co.nz

Free Business Courses – Bay Of Plenty

http://www.bayofplentynz.com/PicsHotel/tbop/Brochure/workshop%20schedule%20Sept%20-%20Nov%20Tga-Updated%2017.10.07.doc

Writing a Marketing Plan workshop (Wgtn)

Wellington: Friday, November 30th 2007, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, at Hinetitama, Level Four, Te Papa, Cable Street, Wellington.

Masterton: Wednesday, November 28th 2007, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, at Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History, Bruce Street, Masterton.

The registration fee is $10.00

W orkshop programme. http://www.tepapa.govt.nz/NR/rdonlyres/8CB01734-3364-4FB1-AF55-2D7AB53866E2/0/MarketingPlanningWorkshopProgramme.doc

To book Wellington: Phoebe Arthur at National Services Te Paerangi Free Phone: 0508 678 743 or email: phoebea@tepapa.govt.nz

Masterton: Marcus Boroughs Phone: 06 370 0001 or email: marcus.b@aratoi.co.nz

Business planning workshop (AK)

Tuesday 13 November 2007

The workshops are for not-for-profit community groups within the Auckland city area. There is a cost of $25 per person (non-refundable), which will include a light lunch.

Registration is essential by Friday 2 November

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/services/communitydev/workshops.asp#business

Arts Enterprise Seminar - Public Eye (AK)
Thursday 22nd of november 2007, 9am – 12.30pm
fee: $25 (includes morning tea)
Speakers: Mikey Havoc – Radio And Tv
Branwen Lorigan – The Big Idea Website, Margaret Lewis – Artists Alliance,
Rob Garrett – Arts Consultant.
The art world can be tricky to manoeuvre if you are just starting out as an artist. To sell your art, create a name for yourself, and meet the right people you need to know how to promote your work; how to use the available media and related opportunities to your advantage.
The public eye seminar will offer insights and practical advice from leading authorities/personalities in print, television and web based media.
A ‘how to” guide on getting publicity, with a focus on methods that require little or no financial outlay...
Contact ceac reception ph: 8384455 or info@ceac.org.nz for registration details. Bookings required

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Competitions and Awards

The Clearasil Next Big Thing Sound Search, powered by ACTV8 & txttunes

Win awesome gear! including Clearasil Prize Packs, Skullcandy Audio Gear, A primo Nokia Mobile.. or a Day at the legendary York Street Studios to record your track!

Open to all ages, individuals or groups

Entries close October 31, Voting closes November 7

http://www.txttunes.com/clearasilthenextbigthing/

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Funding and Grants

Next funding deadlines:

NZ on Air: Friday 9 November

New Recording 16th November

www.nzonair.govt.nz

Creative NZ 29 February 2008 www.creativenz.govt.nz

Outward Sound (NZ Music Export) 29 October 2007 www.nzmusic.org.nz (deadlines for 2008 released in November)

Applications are now open for the Wellington City Council’s general grants, closing at 5pm on 30 November 2007.

There are four grant pools: Social, Cultural, Economic and Environmental. Only legally constituted groups can apply for these grants. (Or groups under the umbrella of a legally constituted group) This round is for projects starting after 14 February 2008

An application form, project description template and application guide and are available at www.wellington.govt.nz/services/grants. We will be running grants advice seminars on: 31 October 1.00pm - 3.00pm & 6.00pm - 8.00pm

To book a place in any of the seminars use the form on the website or call Barbara Franklin on 801 3595. If you can’t make it to a seminar but would like to discuss a possible application, or would like forms to be emailed to you please contact . Katharine Macann DDI: 04 801-3158 Email: katharine.macann@wcc.govt.nz

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Band Members Available and Wanted

Guitar Player Wanted (Auckland)

VALIANT HUM are looking for another guitar player. We have just finished our debut album, have management and have our own rehearsal space in the city.

We're keen to rock into writing another album as soon as... so its not like a session player roll.

Have a listen to some the tunes on myspace and contact us if you're interested.

www.myspace.com/valianthum

Contact Phil on 021 687 452 or phil@stoods.com

One of Aotearoas top roots reggae bands "House of Shem" are looking for a 3 piece Horn Section who have a passion and style for reggae/Ska/Soul brass. If you think you can take up the challenge please contact Te Omeka at info@houseofshem.com will have to commit to Touring / Studio Work / REHERSALS!!!!. check out www.myspace.com/houseofshem

We are a successful Auckland corporate covers band looking for vocalists to be part of our growing team. Pitch us a demo, let us come see you at a gig. Must be professional, reliable, charismatic, great on stage presence, fun with a sense of humour, good strong range and able toharmonise easily.

Please contact info@diva-entertainment.net

Rock Bass Player Wanted

To join Drummer & Guitarist in forming a Sleazy, Anthemic, Killer Hard Rock / Rock n Roll band with big hooks, mean solos, and catchy chorus's.

We also both play in an 80s Rock 'tribute' / covers band 'Maskara', which plays the likes of Skid Row, The Cult, Motley Crue, Def Leppard, Kiss, Guns n Roses, Cinderella , Alice Cooper - all of which we both love and are inspired by.

We also both dig some Blues and Stoner Rock...

You must be in your early to late 20's, be committed, creative, reliable, professional, has transport, and good gear.

If you fit the above criteria and you wanna jam, email us on Info@maskara.co.nz - Cheers!

Competent Bassist Available (Chch)

Influences: Pixies,Sublime,Primus & everything else fast learner & 4 years of pub gig exp. Rikki: 0273288757

The Cover UP need a drummer with COMMITTMENT who can drive home a good solid beat for an up and coming working covers band, with fantastic talented musicians. very professional set up, raring to rip into the busy time of the year. music mainly rock and mainstream for pubs and corporates previous experience a must call Dwane on 0212561961.

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Videos

2007-10-07T20:29:00.000-07:00

Watch out here for two new videos...

YouTube as MTV

2007-09-14T00:35:00.001-07:00

MTV is being replaced by YouTube - that is music producers have started to see the advantages of social networking as opposed to TV being the primary expected vehicle into the minds of listeners more likely to hear a digital rendition of a network or solid state device (like an MP3 player or iPod). MTV Video was sort of an art form. Mashups on mobile phones seem a poor alternative. Give us high art instead of huge production budgets. For that YouTube production is far far better!

Rick Bryant and The Jive Bombers

2007-09-13T22:48:00.001-07:00

Serious consideration being given to bringing back Rick Bryant and The Jive Bombers for another gig - they have started rehearsing some of Rick's new stuff - the better stuff - which to me means most of it. Your feedback very much appreciated. Many seemed to like the last some of the first half, and we may have a video of this for you soon!

There is plenty of interest brewing in the Blues community and several people have asked if they could get tickets in advance. As there is limited availability for the Jive Bombers - we want to give everyone equal opportunity to see the show its only fair to sell tickets to give everyone an even chance.

An allocation of tickets will be released for sale - watch the news page.

Temple News Wire

2007-06-23T17:11:00.000-07:00

From Karen's Music Temple (http://www.temple.co.nz)

APRA is proud to present the inaugural Song Summit Sydney - S3. A major
music expo for songwriters and composers. 3 to 5 April 2008 - keep it free!
S3 will deliver three dynamic days of learning, networking, workshops and
performances, bringing together creators, managers, publishers, technicians,
marketers, lawyers and deal makers.
Expressions of interest for involvement within the retail exhibition and all
general queries should be directed to S3@apra.com.au

Making Music - King Kapisi (Taranaki)
http://www.youthfest.co.nz/programme/making.html

Singer Songwriters Workshop New Plymouth
http://www.youthfest.co.nz/programme/songwriters.html

Nz Music Managers Forum - 'Back To Basics' Seminar Wellington
Wednesday the 27 June. The seminars are designed for new managers and bands
and will cover the following topics: How to write a bio How to write a press
release Media Training part 1 - how to conduct an interview with a magazine
or newspaper Media Training part 2 - how to conduct a radio interview What
photos do you need for your press kit
Venue: Happy Bar Address: Cnr Vivian & Tory Streets - 118 Tory St Time:
6:30pm
Entry: Fee for Members, $15 for Non-Members
For info on joining http://www.mmf.co.nz/

West Coast Songwriters Conference Sept. 8 & 9 in Los Altos, California
www.westcoastsongwriters.org

Next funding deadlines:
NZ on Air: 13th July
New Recording 20th July
www.nzonair.govt.nz
Creative NZ 27th July www.creativenz.govt.nz
Outward Sound 30th July www.nzmusic.org.nz

Arts Alive Funding deadline 5pm Friday 3 August 2007 (AK)
The programmes objectives are: to build audiences for the performing arts
and to develop and maintain Auckland's performing arts infrastructure
including resources, skills, information, professional support and networks
Projects may be a single production, a series of concerts or performances, a
one-off show or concert, or a festival and must involve music, dance or
theatre, or a combination of these.

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/services/grants/artsalive/index.asp

NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin

2007-06-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

From the Temple NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin www.temple.co.nz

Devonport's new web radio is launched!
A station dedicated to community and promoting the arts. Jam Radio is located within the Depot Artspace, Devonport's artistic hub. Programmes ready for the radio's launch include punk, poetry, folk, blues and local music, literary readings, and interviews with artists, writers and musicians. The presenters and technicians are volunteers, the majority of which hail from the North Shore. The programmes will be available for on-demand streaming or download online at www.jamradio.co.nz.
The facility is open to all that have an interest in creating media for radio. There is an emphasis on people being encouraged to take control of the whole production, through scripting, compiling and presenting, to recording and editing. This is an outlet for people to self educate through their expression, and to boost confidence in their own creativity. They can share their ideas, and work with their peers and community. www.jamradio.co.nz Enquiries call Louise on 09 9632331 louise.evans@depotartspace.co.nz

CULTURE VULTURE is a brand spanking new, FREE street press publication with an emphasis on the live music, art, theatre & film in Auckland city. It features a comprehensive gig, gallery, theatre & film guide, feature articles, giveaways and more!

CULTURE VULTURE is a full colour, pocket-sized foldout, which can be found at over 80 popular retail outlets throughout the Auckland CBD and fringe. 4000 copies are printed and distributed every Wednesday. A comprehensive online version of the publication will be launched so you can access it from anywhere at anytime.

With very competitive advertising rates, CULTURE VULTURE makes it affordable for bands and promoters alike to advertise in local a street press publication.

The first issue is unleashed on Wednesday July 4, 2007. For listing and
advertising enquiries please email editor@culturevultureonline.co.nz or
visit http://www.culturevultureonline.co.nz

Time to start working on your APRA returns!

Live Music Returns (paper) due 31 July
Local Jingle Reporting Forms (online) due 31 July
Info @ http://www.apra.co.nz

WANTED: Harp Player Auckland
Yep, you guessed it...we are looking for a committed and reliable blues influenced harmonica blower and / or vocalist for a blues band. Think more Waters, Wolf, Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson II and the Chicago sound rather than Clapton, Moore and the British blues guys... Cheers Sean 021532654

To subscribe send email to subscribe@temple.co.nz with a bit of info about
who you are (if you feel like it)

Mamaku Project

2007-06-06T17:06:00.001-07:00

Click on image to see it

Christchurch Army Band positions

2007-06-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

Bassist And Keyboardist Wtd!! (Full Time Job)

The world renowned NEW ZEALAND ARMY BAND is currently in dire need of a new
Bassist and a new Keyboardist. This is a FULL TIME job playing music, based
at Burnham Camp near Christchurch, and all equipment is supplied free! If
you'd like a job with excellent pay, lots of national & overseas travel,
hugely prestigious gigs, free medical & dental, cheap accommodation & meals,
and lots more: get in touch today! Contact the recruiting officer, GRAHAM
HICKMAN forthwith on 03 363 0200 for audition details. Also check out this
website
http://www.army.mil.nz/culture-and-history/nz-army-culture/nz-army-band/join
.htm

Call for performers Auckland City Farmers' Market info@cityfarmersmarket.co.nz
Budget of $75 for music (previously it was on a busking only basis) plus
food/$ donations from stallholders).
The market mostly suits mellow, folk, jazz, rag-time kinda tunes but we've
had everything from classical to hard rock and as long as the stallholders
can hear their customers we're pretty open.
The market gigs usually last about 3 hours with as many breaks as needed
(market runs 8.30 until 12.30pm every Saturday) and musicians need to bring
> their own p.a/amp/instruments etc. We have shelter and free parking and
usually over 1,000 visitors each week so it's a great opportunity for
exposure/selling cd's.
Email with dates you may be free and if possible a link to enable us to have
a listen to your music.

Music Wanted For Travel Show -
Winter Diaries, a 5 episode series shot in Europe and due to air on TV3 and
C4 from the 24th of June 2007. It is a winter travel show that uses
snowboarding as the vehicle to get from country to country. We are looking
to use nothing but kiwi music for the soundtrack and although there will be
no monetary reward, we will be crediting at the end of the show as well as
web links to your music. contact Abe at abe@ywe.co.nz
This item thanks to CHART www.christchurchmusic.org.nz

Phonographic Performances NZ Ltd is looking for part-time Music Licensing
Representatives.
Reps are responsible for the initial correspondence and subsequent telephone
follow-up of premises who may be using recorded music as part of their
business. We currently have one part-time position (flexible hours) based at
our Grey Lynn office, as well as multiple roles for off-site reps which
would suit those who want to work from home. If interested please send a CV
and cover letter to:Mark Roach General Manager Licensing mark@ppnz.co.nz Or
phone 0800 88 77 69.

- from The Temple News wire

Tony Backhouse Workshops

2007-06-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

Tony Backhouse: New Zealand Workshops (Coromandel, Hawkes Bay, Chch,
Dunedin)

June 8-10 Love and Joy Expressed through Voice and Rhythm - Gospel Singing
Retreat Mana Retreat Centre, Coromandel http://www.manaretreat.com/ Contact
07 866 8972 be@manaretreat.com

June 12 Tuesday evening workshop Hawkes Bay Contact: Zahira: 06. 8787 586
empowerforlife@xtra.co.nz

June 15-17 Weekend workshop Riverside Community Cultural Centre (Nelson)
Contact Barbie: 03 5267033 Ext. 26 barbiecole@clear.net.nz

June 19 Tuesday evening workshop, Christchurch Contact Lee: 03 3135166
leelawrence@ihug.co.nz

June 22-24 Weekend workshop Dunedin Contact Claire: 03.453 6554
cstevensnz@gmail.com

The Bollix

2007-05-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

The Dogs Bollix is an excellent music venue in Auckland New Zealand. And the rumour we hear is that on Thursday June 28th the Rick Bryant Trio are going to do their first gig in a very long time, and perhaps the first of a very limited run, as we understand it, due to recording commitments on Rick's next album. The man has been busy, and has a reportoire of new songs to perform for his fans. It is likely to be a door charge only event, but if I get enough emails, I may be able to get tickets for a very limited number of you that need to know you will get in.

from Temple NZ Music Industry Info Bulletin www.temple.co.nz.

2007-05-21T09:21:00.001-07:00

Funding and Grants

Next funding deadlines:
NZ on Air:
New Recording 25th May then 20th July
13th July www.nzonair.govt.nz
Creative NZ 27th July www.creativenz.govt.nz
Outward Sound 30th July www.nzmusic.org.nz

Funding for Community Groups (AK)
Each of Auckland City's 10 community boards has $25,000 to distribute to
community groups carrying out projects of benefit to the residents in their
local area. The Community Board Local Fund aims to support the processes and
activities that enable people to get together to improve their local
communities. Funding is available for an activity, project, programme or
event that starts after 1 October 2007 and ends before 30 September 2008.
The deadline for applications is 5pm, 13 July 2007. Application forms will
be available from Auckland City in June and will be downloadable from
http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/services/grants/communityboard/
Free Public Information Sessions are available contact 09-379-2020 for
details

Blues and Rock guitarist avail (Wgtn)
I'm 21 years old, been playing for about 4 years. Looking to jam with people
into blues and rock. I like Guns n Roses, Chuck Berry, ACDC, led zep,
cream... and asstd. bluesmen from Robert J to SRV. Doesn't have to be covers
but i think they're good to get things goin :) Jared Nicoll 0274239837

Registrations for The Age 2007 Melbourne Fringe Festival
Open monday 28 may and close 5pm friday 15 june
Melbourne Fringe invites artists to be part of the annual celebration that
knows no creative boundaries - whatever your artform, whatever your career
stage, presenting whatever you want.
For full Festival details, application forms and registration tips visit
www.melbournefringe.com.au, call 03 8412 8788 or email
info@melbournefringe.com.au

Cinema World Studios In NY, an Award-Winning Producer in the motion picture
and network television industry is seeking male romantic, up-tempo latino
or american 'Pop' tunes for up coming productions. Please submit songs in
the style of Marc Anthony 'Show Me The Way', 'My Baby You' 'Theme From
Zorro', Etc. Submissions
Submission deadline is open, but interested writers should submit ASAP on a
on going basis.
Info http://www.SongScope.com
Note there is a cost to submit

Gnarls Barclay - The Regent, Auckland - March 28

2007-03-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

Danger Mouse is not just the most busy person in Music today, he is also one of the more subversive DJ whizz kids who's obsessive prowling into territory designed to make trouble produced the underground classic The Grey Album. Next, there was the joyful ludicrously uplifting little number with Gemini that defined something striking, a hook with a blast. Something extraordinary. The next time the Danger Mouse effect struck by suprise was this amazing voice singing "Crazy" - the voice of Gnarls Barclay and the grin that controls it played a magic and make this rap soul maistro a demonically success overnight megastar on an MC Hammer scale. In reality he is even larger than life. Bugling with extraordinary life and a huge personality, the best voice you could hear, and a show that was spectaularly artful. The singing was delivered with a professional ease underlying the sense of frustration he had with this quiet crowd.

Perhaps it was the sheer brilliant over awed the audience but I suspect a little seen phenomena made it difficult. The crowd went crazy for the support act - and it kind of burned with such a powerful energy that there was nowhere to go. The Rapture are far far too good to support anybody, so watch out touring artistes - they are dangerously brilliant. More on them later.

A string quartet flawlessly alternated introductory riffs in counterpoint to a fine guitar lead, very distinctive backing vocals and the dynamic duo - this extraordinary masterpiece producing machine was belting out their short catalog of great songs to a mute response. "You're here to party!" the exhortations were loud and the language of frustration was like watching a comic melt.

Another, and in my view the real problem with both bands, is that they were produced far to loudly for the venue. The reason is the sound desk is buried under the circle, so only gets a slice of the full volume of the sound. The reverberation in this grand dame old theatre is quite serve. By the time one's eardums have been destroyed by the opening act, the main act is far far too loud to hear much and the performer's sense of timing may get rushed as he peers into the murk. But this band had far too much class. He swore at the quiet crowd and roused them to instant loud cheering yelps but he felt like he was not connecting, perhaps, The crowd were overawed, perhaps. Intro-ing his great hit as the reason for all his wealth and his exuberant ego in listing out what was great about himself, well he will grow out of it. I would fogive this man for anything and he was funny.

Storming off the crowd soke up like a petulent child in the night and demanded and demanded an encore. Just enough tough love from a man who convinced the audience he loved each one of them, and he opened his encore set with a cover of Space Oddity by David Bowie, and the crowd warmed up. And it was a great cover.

Sometimes something new seems like something old. The comparisons with James Brown are obvious in a sense, but Gnarls Barclay was done absolutely no favours by the presentation. The venue would be well advised to change their sound setup so engineers can hear what they are producing. Accuracy of the intended art is far more important than excess volume that makes it impossible for punters to hear some of the best music ever made while their ears and future enjoyment of all music may be compromised.

Yes, some bands are head bangers, but Gnarls Barclay is virtuoso conterporary jazz blues soul act. Next time I would rather hear them in a concert chamber.

Windy City Struggers Spiegeltent broadcast

2007-03-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

Strugglers play Auckland Festival, go live on radio - see Strugglers site News Page

Herald:review for Lior

2007-03-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

AK07: Lior at the Spiegeltent - 20 Mar 2007 - NZ Herald: Entertainment News, Reviews and Gossip from New Zealand and around the World

Lior - at the Spiegeltent

2007-03-19T01:29:00.000-07:00

Lior had just come from the World Music stage performing for a crowd 20,000 or so at WOMAD, and then to the Auckland Festival AK07 at The Famous Spiegeltent for a very intimate performance. One man with one guitar - well not quite, the guitar changed nearly every song. Lior quipped that his guitar collection had been shipped back to Australia at the beginning of the show. Lucky for Auckland, this was a joke, however his encore was a Hebrew hymn - unaccompanied.

His guitar was intricate and crisp. Songs that stood out were Bedouin Song, Blessed and Grey Ocean from his CD Autumn Flow, nominated for 3 Aria awards, and Sonya which may be part of his about to be recorded second CD release.

Lior's music is gentle folk songs with intricate melodies - his voice sometimes was reminiscent of Paul Simon in some, with qualities I have not heard since Cat Stevens and when he let it pour out in full voice it reminded of Jeff Buckley. He included a wonderful story about the only cover in his set by Nick Drake.

**** Stunning.

Review - One Million Dollars

2007-03-18T05:49:00.000-07:00

One Million Dollars is an eleven piece "local soul collective" playing funky jazz with a Brazilian twist. Their only Spiegeltent show had a smallish audience, which was a pity, they deserved much, much more.

A few tricky moments at first as lead guitarist and singer Richard Setford coped with an evil sounding bad connection that cracked through two songs. But that did not phase anybody. The show included songs from their second album, Soup Kitchen, all performed with the backbone of Tom Atkinson's on-the-beat drum work, fully experienced by an increasingly mesmerized audience, as the front line brass all knelt. While Richard Setford's vocals were on the edge of sounding a little blues like.

Two trumpets, a trombone and a sax define clearly their sound with a resonance and perfect timing. An uplifting and engaging experience, had them dancing and wanting an encore that could not be due to festival scheduling.

Jennifer Ward-Lealand - Falling in Love Again

2007-03-14T04:52:00.000-07:00

at The Famous Spiegeltent, 14 March 2007.

In Falling in Love Again, Jennifer Ward-Lealand is an actor playing a role, the role is an extraordinary observation of the great Marlene Deitrich. An actor playing a role must become brilliant at what an audience understands about the subject. This requires Jennifer Ward-Lealand not just to be able to project being Marlene but she managed to sound convincingly enough that you could play in this fantasy world, the fully authentic Spiegeltent that Marlene herself graced in the 1930s.

This was not so much "art as imitation", interpretation or representation, but this spiritually extended the value of it's original, Jennifer Ward-Lealand was able to inhabit our idea of Marlene Dietrich and with perfect timing and voice, she performed great numbers including delightful versions of the show title song.

After which the audience gave her a standing ovation, before they left the art deco authenticity of The Famous Spiegeltent.

This was one of those spine tingling performances that holds the audience in a rapture where time becomes irrelevant. Ward-Lealand entered, stood in a great big white fur and jewels, still, and moved the audience, some, to tears.

Rick Bryant

2007-02-21T00:33:00.000-08:00

Rick Bryant has been recording tracks for his upcoming album. We have been sworn to secrecy about the name and content of the next album, but have heard a good number of these tracks.

Watch this space for video releases...

Sing & See - Visual Feedback for singing training

2007-02-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Sing & See - Visual Feedback for singing training - recommend this singing tutor to stay on top of your notes.

The Geometry of Music -- Friday, Jan. 26, 2007 -- Page 1 -- TIME

2007-02-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

The Geometry of Music -- Friday, Jan. 26, 2007 -- Page 1 -- TIME - interesting article about recent discoveries mapping musical chords shows that most Western music limits itself to a limited set of chords as illustrated by data models that show the geometry of chords.

Bluesman

2007-02-15T13:36:00.000-08:00

Auckland Festival '07 | Programme of Events | WINDY CITY STRUGGLERS

2007-02-10T04:15:00.000-08:00

Auckland Festival '07 | Programme of Events | WINDY CITY STRUGGLERS