New Zealand's 2005 top stand out artists!
Posted: Tue Dec 6, 2005 8:22 pm

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We here at muzic.net.nz think that all NZ music artists and bands are really awesome, simply because they contribute to NZ music and do a great job at it, however, there are NZ artists and bands out there that have really stood up above the rest during 2005...

You know who I'm talking about - the artists and bands that have gigged endlessly, released CDs and have constantly promoted themselves on the internet and out on the streets

This is your place to tell everyone who you think these artists are

RE: New Zealand's 2005 top stand out artists!
Posted: Tue Dec 6, 2005 9:52 pm

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Gramsci

"Like Stray Voltage" is simply the finest slab of sonic goodness I've heard in a long. long time. Frankly, these Guys are a class act and give the rest of us something to chase in regards to Deliverey, Construction, High Quality Recording, and Melody.

Odessa

"Oak Park" yeah its pretty obvious, influence wise, but I'm a sucker for a Vocalist who will give it a go up top. Maybe he could beat me in a fight, but hell I'd sure be dancing.

Pluto

"Pipeline" similar to Gramsci, in that someone has thought deeply about song (as opposed to jam) construction. They do put it all together on "Long White Cross". I also have a sneaking regard for the fact that they appear to want to be Rock Stars, or at least dress the part.


The Undercurrents

EP apparantly due March-April, done themselves a major favour by bringing Simon Nunn on board.His Drumming is a nights entertainment in its self. Would appear to be forming their own sound which one hopes is something we all aspire too.

Jet Jaguar

I'm not at all into this "Electronica" or whatever this computer music is now called, but JJ seems to transcend the oppresive use of synch Kicks and make something you can actually feel. Moves gentley, mood music.

Ishtar

I've said it before and I'll say it again, this Lad has got serious chops. Check out "Plea" , the best Acoustic i've heard this side of Al deMeola.
Aucklanders I urge you too attend their next gig.

RE: New Zealand's 2005 top stand out artists!
Posted: Wed Dec 7, 2005 11:31 pm

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Thanks for the plug Mr Foal,

Likewise Equus and Hardfill, both awesome bands with stellar musicianship and very cool arrangements. Eclectic yet always in the pocket, tight yet can swing a groove like crazy.... just a really cool band.

Epitome are, in my estimation set to become HUGE. Big wall of sound, great musicianship, looking hungry for the big time anf polished as hell. if theres any justice ut there 06 will be their year.

Battle Circus, kick arse prog group. Personally I love what these guys do.

I haven't seen Agent yet but a lot of people I know are saying they have a massive live show. I love the track they had on the Reconstruction cd, power trip, awesome track.

For that matter I gotta say other Reconstruction artists Miscreant, Jooles, Out of Order, Blair Giles Band and Ruptus Jack all put on kick arse shows at the Kings Arms chariy gig. Unfortunately I was on the door with mr brother most the night but there were some beautiful sounds coming through the door that night. Also on that cd Redmore were a really cool band and Alex Smart' and the Gods of Nothing's songs really stand out for me.

I've got a lot of time for Angelsound, not just cause they made up half of Ishtar MK1 but also cause Angel's voice is mesmerizing. She reminds me of Steve Perry in the way that she is a total perfectionist in the way she approaches her vocals and I love listening to her track BVs, every time so close they phase....

These 4 Walls are a great rock band, high energy, great arrangements, great sense of drama to their music

Dragonorchid gave me a copy of the rock factory compilation and a few names jump out on that one. Sonic sound like they'd be a cool band, their singer has a voice that just oozes sexuality, I love the way she sells the word Elevator. Upraw, Amperzahn and Alpine Fault are cool, great songs and great to see live. Viracosha rock hard, Aussie's gain in the next few months definitely our loss.

Probe Sky are cool.

Remote are just a riff churning machine...

I think this would be the short list probably quite a few bands I've missed.

This message was edited by simon_ishtar on Wed Dec 7, 2005 11:37 pm.

RE: New Zealand's 2005 top stand out artists!
Posted: Thu Dec 8, 2005 9:39 am

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There's a large amount of bands in New Zealand who work really hard and get very little credit for their efforts, but I have to say that the hardest working and most professional band that I have seen in many years who are so deserving of recognition in this vast music industry world is CHUGANAUT.

CHUGANAUT are highly energetic and consistently striving to conquer the immense challenges that can either make or break a band whilst at the same time loving everything they do. Their music is a combustible mix of passionate spontaneity loosely based around rock, alternative and twisted metal styles with heartfelt lyrics that promote good morals, common sense and positivity.

I wish them huge success in their chosen profession.

www.chuganaut.com

This message was edited by Asss on Thu Dec 8, 2005 9:41 am.