Coridian are one of New Zealand's leading rock acts, and they have an exciting 2023 in the works. In recent months the release of singles Rakshasa (with Michael Murphy from Written by Wolves) and State of Mind have further cemented their status in NZ music. We spoke to Kris from the band about all things Coridian, and here's what was said:
How did you become involved in music?
Well, the three Ravens (Kris, Mike, Nick) all grew up in a musical playing household, our dad is a muso, so we have always been around music, bands and gigs. It was a natural progression and we have all been involved in the Auckland and NZ music scene ever since our early teenage years. Dity (vocals) also grew up embracing lots of different types of music and has been involved in the band and gigging circuit for at least the last 15 years.
What NZ bands and musicians would you like to tour with, and why?
I would love to tour with Shapeshifter, Fat Freddy's Drop, Devilskin, Shepherds Reign and Written by Wolves to name a few. It would be cool to play with some incredible legends and have some mixed genre line ups and learn from some of the best in the game.
Which one of your songs are you most proud of, and why?
Hmm, proud of the majority of songs but I will say I am super proud of our latest single State of Mind. Feels like we cracked it with that one.
How would you describe your music to someone who hasn't heard it before?
Alternative hard rock with a progressive rock flair, a tinge of metal and a lot of groove.
What can we expect to see from you in the next year?
Our full length album HAVA, the final chapter in our Elements series of albums. Lots more shows, tours, new merch. A busy busy Coridian.
Who are your favourite NZ bands and musicians?
There are so many. I will say Kiwi bands who inspire us as a band would be Pull Down the Sun, Claemus, Elidi, City of Souls, Outside In, Crooked Royals, Written by Wolves, These Four Walls...the list could go on haha.
What local albums have you been listening to recently?
Claemus - Daydream
Pull Down the Sun - Of Valleys and Mountains
Shapeshifter - Rituals
Crooked Royals - Quarter Life Day Dream
What is your favourite NZ venue, and why?
The Powerstation, perfect size, great sound, can't go wrong.
Have you got any tips for dealing with nerves before a gig?
Stretching, meditation, finding your zone.
How do you balance your music with other obligations; family, job etc?
Easier when you are younger, that's for sure. It's always a hard balance but we try out best as music is one of our biggest passions and we need it to balance our lives and our mental health and release.
Where do you get your inspiration to create music from?
Everywhere. The older we get the more we listen and explore. We influence each other, our peers influence us and we find influence in different genres and artists from around the world.
What is the one thing you want NZ to know about Coridian?
Watch out for our new album, HAVA. We are super proud of it, cannot wait to release it and play it for everyone!
What has been your most memorable show to date?
There's certainly been a few, particularly playing at the Powerstation twice in 2018 however our recent show at The Tuning Fork with Written by Wolves was epic. The whole show, bands, atmosphere and the crowd. Our fans making it so special. When we played Seed II and all you could see was a sea of waving arms was pretty special.
What can you never leave home without?
Keys, wallet and headphones (just in case I need to listen to new music or a podcast).
How did you come up with the name Coridian?
The tried and true method of picking a name out of a hat, except it was two names mixed together out of about 30. Mike came up with the name. We have since made some meanings behind it as well.
What rumour would you like to start about Coridian?
We aren't actually brothers, it's
all a lie.
The beards aren't real, it's all fake.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?
I think coming out of 2022 and how hard the last few years have been, remember to play music for yourself, enjoy playing music with people and friends. Don't be discouraged by a tough music industry. Keep it fun, if you want to get serious, get serious but don't forget music is for love of it.Coridian is an alternative/progressive rock group from Auckland, New Zealand.
Formed in 2015, the band consists of brothers Mike Raven (Guitars/Keys), Kris Raven (Drums/Percussion), Nick Raven (Bass) & Dity Maharaj (Vocals/Artwork)
They’ve been described as, “Raven brothers (Mike, Kris and Nick respectively) work as a well-oiled machine; the gear box of which is Maharaj, his vocals taking the band from a hum to a scream within seconds” (Ambient Light)