Moonflower is a smooth Christchurch three piece releasing music riddled with dark twists and societal narratives. Comprised of singer/ songwriter/ drummer Nicole Schaap, and accompanying musicians Josh Fairless and Hamish Ellis, this band is not to be missed.
The band's latest single Poison begins with a smooth guitar and drum section, transporting the listener to the 60's. Schaap's controlled vocals enter with the lyrics "I'm too good at living," before she riffs about being like "poison that makes you sick". I enjoyed the fantastical lyricism woven through the song. Schaap's vocals quickly escalate, and lead the rhythm section into a heavier, more distorted section.
It's an ambitious undertaking to change genres 50 seconds into a track, but Moonflower pulls it off. You can hear the skill in the arrangement; the band manages to keep the music fresh and transforming, while maintaining a coherent sound.
Moonflower brings a final epic moment with an expert guitar solo playing the song out. Overall, Poison is an engaging piece of writing that was written, arranged and produced to an impressive level. I look forward to finding out what's next for the band.
Moonflower, from Christchurch, NZ is vocalist/songwriter/drummer Nicole Schaap, guitarist Hamish Ellis and bassist Josh Fairless. They create an exciting sound inspired by 60's and 70's soul and classic rock, with a heavy twist. Powerhouse vocalist Nicole has a voice that takes you back to the times of Aretha Franklin, Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane) and Ann Wilson (Heart). Her lyrics have deep meanings and societal messages, often about animal rights, humans and what they're doing to the environment.
The journey of Moonflower started in 2017.They recorded and released their debut album Dark Lullabies in 2019. Moonflower toured NZ the following months after the release and have been releasing singles as a 3-piece band.