25 May 2020 // A review by IslaMusic
“Indie-pop fantasizer” Sofia Machray is stirring up the music scene with her debut single Handstands. Having made a name for herself performing at festivals and opening for indie-rock band Racing, it’s exciting to see her step into the studio. Mystical and talented, Sofia Machray is a breath of fresh air this music month.

Handstands begins with a familiar Mac Demarco guitar timbre, setting the scene of an indie meadow. Sofia’s vocals are precise and enticing. She talks about “running around ghost's towns”, and how “alleyways don’t seem the same” today. She moves from a poetic verse to a simple chorus stating, “I don’t want to get to know you”. The vocal performance in the chorus is powerful; Sofia’s belt puts the joker Handstands is about back in their place.

The song breaks for a palm muted section, supported by the shuffling kit line. Sofia’s stellar vocals are cleverly layered to build tension before releasing into a killer guitar solo for the conclusion of the song. The band ought to be congratulated on their polished performance, too. Handstands is professionally arranged and tastefully played.

Featuring artwork by Taizan Yamada and photography credited to Jess Machray, it’s clear that Sofia Machray has a talented team backing the release of Handstands. The single is one of many to be released in 2020, and I am looking forward to hearing more from the Wellington based artist.

Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ ( 5 / 5 )

Described by pop-culture magazine Sniffers as ‘captivating', Sofia Machray is an independent dream-rock singer-songwriter from the heart of the mountains in Arrowtown, New Zealand. Stretching out over moody rockers and soft-burning hooks Sofia delved into the realm of indie music from a young age as a self-taught guitarist from 6 years old. Drawing on timeless concepts and the vast landscapes that raised, she began to cultivate and express herself through the medium of songwriting. In 2018 she made the move to Wellington to study music at Massey University where she met her 4-piece support band.

Becoming a strong forerunner in New Zealand’s independent scene, Machray was quick to win the hearts of music lovers close to home and abroad. Touring Aotearoa off the back of her debut single Handstands in 2020, the song went on to chart number 1 on various independent radio stations and led to her sharing stages with indie icons such as Palace, Wax Mustang, Dolphin Friendly, Ha The Unclear, and Racing.

2023 saw the release of Machray's dreamy debut record Language Of Flowers which attracted solid attention and support from both international/local media earning its spot on the Student Radio Network chats with multiple tracks such as Petals In The Rain, Foundations, and Crumbs climbing to number 1.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Sofia Machray

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