I am sitting in a motel in Los Angeles at the moment. It's hot outside and relaxing with a rather strong craft beer seems the perfect time to sit back and check out the latest release from Wellington based Mitch Alderlieste.
Immediately I am transported back to New Zealand as opening track Take Me On comes across like something James Reid from The Feelers would be happy to have written. Next track Glitter Screens has a more bluesy feel and it's clear that Mitch has a knack for writing catchy songs that will go down a storm live.
The voice matches the songwriting skills and third track Little Paradise really hooks you in. All these songs would sit well on almost any radio station in NZ. There is an indie, alternative vibe to them as well and I do kind of hope that Mitch pushes that more underground element further in future releases. If he ventures a little further, gets a little more edgy then I think he could really stand out.
Title track City Calling opens with piano and the pace slows. Time for another beer and I am transported back to a beach in NZ, sun shining and nothing to do but sit and watch the waves. Good music is meant to make you feel something and right now Mitch has made me feel a little homesick.
Great EP and if these songs get heard by enough people then Mitch has a great future.
Mitch Alderlieste is an independent singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Wellington.
Growing up performing and writing within a wide variety of genres, Mitch has found his place in the rock and acoustic genres. Blending soaring husky vocals with rhythmic guitars and subtle synths, it lays down the foundations for his unique palette of sound.