Thanks Laughton for answering these questions:
What can we expect to see from Kora over the next year?
Finally the new album is out and there has been alot more focus on travelling overseas, eg Europe, USA, Japan and Australia. Looking forward to that.
What advice would you like to give to other aspiring musicians?
Stick to what you know, Being honest about your music seems to resonate with others better as well. people can tell whether it's real or not. Especially yourself!
Who are your favourite NZ musicians/bands, and why?
Jon Toogood (Shihad). 25 years on and he still knows how to put on an amazing show. Always consistent, real rock'n'roll man!!
What will Kora’s next release be?
Hopefully something different from the last 2 albums. Cool thing about Kora is that we're willing and have given ourselves the option to explore any direction and feel.
How do you come up with your lyrics?
Pen to paper. Quite often the beat is first and then I listen to the feel and go from there. Always thinking of the feel of the song as a whole. Does what I say suit what the music is trying to portray as well.
Who would you most like to support live?
(This is just me) AC/DC, NZSO, Prince, Steve Vai.
How do you believe Kora fits into the NZ music industry?
Sales really...No sales, then, no mention! I'd like to think we swim in the deeper end of the pool though.
What can you never leave home without?
....my instruments...?
How would you describe Kora’s music?
Simplistic heavy grooves with tasty melodies.
What is your favourite NZ venue?
The Powerstation, Auckland.
What is the best part of being a musician?
Finding out what you're really made off. This life style is for the chosen few.
What NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?
Heavy Metal Ninjas!!! Intellectual feel with outstanding technique and composition. Everyone else should stay at home and give up.
What is your most embarrassing on tour/gig moment?
Saying hello to the wrong city...I still feel bad about it actually.
What are your favourite places in NZ to be?
Queenstown and Orewa.
What is the best gig you have ever performed at, and why?
BDO 2010, Why? 35,000 people and Wellington town hall with Strike, Why? Percussive geeks. Geeks rule!!!
What rumour would you like to start about Kora?
Kora!! The first band to perform on the moon.
Venue: Sea of Tranquility
Dress Code: No Males
Kora has long been recognised as the best live act in New Zealand, with an enduring career and legacy that resonates across the generations.
In the early 1990's, Laughton, Francis, Stuart, and Brad, four brothers of the Kora family hailing from Whakatane, began catching the attention of local audiences. After winning multiple band competitions, they earned a first release on Tangata Records. In 2000 while living in Queenstown, Laughton began jamming with local musician Dan McGruer (aka Syrup D), who encouraged him to experiment with vocals. Their live project Soulcharge was associated with locals including KP, Downtown Brown (Sunshine Sound System) and P.Digsss (Shapeshifter). Dan and Laughton both shared songwriting duties and recorded a four-song demo.
Laughton and Fran were reunited in Wellington at Toi Whakaari (NZ Drama School), and continued writing music with Dan, and then eventually all four brothers together became part of the 1st incarnation of Kora.