Bio

Hailing from the bright lights of Otautahi, indie-rock outfit Spirit Boy make music they love to listen to. Led by Ethan Mead’s commanding voice, Spirit Boy take inspiration from Americana and folk artists of the 60's and 70's, the earnestness of 80's new romanticism, and the stadium-filling rock bands that shaped their teenage years.

Although Mead came late to song-writing, he has an undeniable ear for a melody and the mind for a story. Mead describes the album as a “collection of joyous songs about being sad - a sort of celebration of the full spectrum of human emotion.”

Depending on who you talk to, the band started during a game of bingo attended by Mead and guitarist Regan Barker underneath Christchurch’s casino. Another account suggests that a chance encounter seeing Barker on stage with guitar in hand inspired Mead to become a song writer. Whichever version you believe, the five-piece consists of Mead (vocals/guitar), Barker (guitar), Sam Burt (keyboard/piano), Talon Adams (bass), and Mason Head (drums).

With gigs on hold as a result of 2021’s COVID lockdown, Spirit Boy turned their energy to recording their debut full-length album. The songs were largely tracked with Adam Hogan of LOHO Studios (Pretty Stooked, Mim Jensen, Deep Water Creek), with additional recording sessions overseen by guitarist Regan Barker in various locations, including Ethan’s flat and the Christchurch Boys’ High School music department. The album was produced by Tim Heeringa (Wulfie, Loveta) and mastered by the award-winning Sefi Carmel, who boasts credits for the likes of David Bowie, Phil Collins, and Bruno Mars. The album’s first single Adolescence was released on 25 November, 2022.

Spirit Boy have since given the songs the live treatment and taken them to stages across the city.

Band Members:
Ethan Mead (vocals, guitar)
Regan Barker (guitar)
Talon Adams (bass)
Sam Burt (keyboards)
Mason Head (drums)

Links

• Facebook Page
• Youtube Page
• Instagram Page
• Spotify Page