Whenever a great new band comes onto the scene there is usually someone with great taste in music has helped them get there. Mikee Tucker has had his hand in some of New Zealand’s best Reggae/Roots bands for example Fly My Pretties, The Black Seeds and TrinityRoots, so it comes as no surprise that New Zealand’s newest roots/reggae band Coast are signed with Loop.
The first single woman transport you to an environment of emotions like a ‘tsunami’ of sweet power that you would find attached to any great song about a woman. The bands front man Jade Pritchard conveys deep emotions through lyrics rooted in love and friendship, he says his writing revolves around his connects with ‘people and relationships.’
The second Track 'Running out of Time' is a backing track that reminds me of summer road trips. It has an unmistakable ‘Kiwi’ vibe that we wear on our sleeves with pride and Mana.
The guitar and bass in 'Coast' the third track really extend the band musically and out of the roots and reggae only genre. The long intro and minimal lyrics make for a great lounge vibe and give a unique diversity to the music that is literally mesmerizing. The last song on the EP reflections instrumental of flowing guitar and bass is equally able to capture attention without lyrics.
'Leaving' and 'Think About You', have an organic rhythm that leave you feeling hopeful again pulling you back to the emotive symbolism that undeniably is mastered by Coast in their music. Jade's vocals initially sound rough but melt away into a smooth and powerful arrangement.
Make sure you catch them live at their Album release party May 21st at Juice Bar in Auckland. By the sound of this CD is a show you don’t want to miss.
Coast is led by the soulful vocalist and chugging guitarist, Jade Pritchard. Joining him is classically trained and jazz-based drummer, Ben Trinick, and naturally talented bass player, Pai, who also provides vocals.
Hailing from Gisborne, Coast initially formed during jam sessions in 2007. When Jade needed a backing band the group made things official with their first gig at Rhythm and Vines 07/08. Coast then moved on to win the 2008 Eastern Bay Battle of the Bands (judged by Kora) and the Auckland Rock to the Top competition in 2009. With these early achievements, Coast moved from the East Coast to Auckland to develop their deep and complex sound.
In May 2010, Coast’s self-titled debut EP Coast was released through Loop. Much like a well-crafted puzzle where each piece snugly fits, Coast intuitively blend a roll call of genres on their EP. From dub to funk, rock psychedelia to reggae/roots, Coast have created a resonance that is both familiar to the kiwi ear and captivating in its passion-infused delivery.