Discover the latest tracks from New Zealand's vibrant music scene, featuring dreamy atmospheres, catchy rhythms, and powerful vocals. This week showcases a diverse range of genres and artists, each bringing something unique to the table. From ethereal soundscapes to pop gems, these fresh releases are sure to captivate listeners. The selections highlight upcoming albums, breakthrough singles, and collaborations with renowned producers.
Dreamy Melodies and Debut Albums
This week, several artists are setting the stage for their upcoming album releases with enchanting previews. Womb’s latest single creates an immersive soundscape that hints at the depth of their forthcoming project. Similarly, Aidan Fine offers a smooth introduction to his debut album, while Arjuna Oakes teases a genre-blending full-length record. These tracks not only showcase the artists' versatility but also build anticipation among fans.
Womb’s “Only You” introduces listeners to a world of layered melodies and hazy textures. This track follows the delicate yet compelling “One Is Always Heading Somewhere,” which set the tone for their March 14th album release. Meanwhile, Aidan Fine’s “Undercover” combines snappy beats with a laid-back vibe, offering a seamless blend of modern pop elements. On the other hand, Arjuna Oakes’ “No Joke” sets the mood for his debut album, blending contemporary soul, jazz, and electronica into a moody, percussive composition. Each of these tracks serves as a tantalizing glimpse into the artists' evolving musical journeys.
Bold Statements and Collaborative Efforts
Several artists this week have made bold statements through their music, addressing personal experiences and societal issues. Phoebe Vic delivers a powerful message against gaslighting, while Gracie Moller asserts her individuality in a standout collaboration. Frankie Venter continues her rise to stardom with a confident new single. These tracks demonstrate the artists' willingness to push boundaries and challenge norms.
Phoebe Vic’s “Mad Women” takes aim at manipulative behavior with a country-tinged alt-pop swagger. The track is direct and punchy, showcasing Vic’s ability to craft meaningful lyrics. Meanwhile, Gracie Moller’s “Not Your Type” features assertive vocals over acoustic guitar, co-written with Alisa Xayalith and produced by Nate Ferraro. This collaboration brings a polished yet intimate feel to the song. Additionally, Frankie Venter’s “Like It Like That” builds on her breakout success, further establishing her as a rising star in the New Zealand music scene. Her performance with Six60 adds another layer of excitement to her growing fanbase. Together, these tracks highlight the diversity and strength of New Zealand’s emerging artists.
The 2025 Academy Awards showcased a special tribute to the James Bond franchise, highlighting its iconic music through performances by Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye. The event also marked significant changes in the franchise's ownership as producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli sold their stake in EON Productions to Amazon. This move reflects the evolving landscape of media and entertainment, while honoring the legacy that has captivated audiences for over six decades.
The musical medley featured renditions of classic Bond themes, including "Live and Let Die," "Diamonds Are Forever," and "Skyfall." Performers praised each other’s talents, with Raye particularly impressing the audience. Additionally, the recent sale of EON Productions underscores the ongoing relevance and adaptability of the Bond franchise, ensuring its future in an ever-changing industry.
A Night of Iconic Performances
The 2025 Oscars celebrated the enduring appeal of James Bond with a mesmerizing musical tribute. Hosted by Margaret Qualley, who danced to the theme, the segment featured three dynamic performers: Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye. Each artist brought their unique flair to songs that have become synonymous with the spy series. The performance not only entertained but also highlighted the timeless nature of Bond's soundtrack.
Lisa kicked off the tribute with a snippet of "Live and Let Die," showcasing her dance skills alongside her vocal prowess. Doja Cat followed with a rendition of "Diamonds Are Forever," originally performed by Shirley Bassey. Finally, Raye delivered a powerful version of "Skyfall," which Adele had previously won an Oscar for. The audience was captivated by Raye’s performance, leading many to speculate about her potential involvement in future Bond projects. Her chemistry with Lisa and Doja Cat underscored the collaborative spirit of the evening, making it a memorable highlight of the awards show.
New Chapter for the Bond Franchise
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the Oscars, significant developments are reshaping the James Bond franchise. Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, who have been instrumental in guiding the series since the 1960s, recently sold their shares in EON Productions to Amazon. This strategic move signals a new era for the franchise, blending tradition with modern business practices. It also acknowledges the changing dynamics of the entertainment industry, where streaming platforms play a pivotal role.
Wilson and Broccoli were honored with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award in November, recognizing their contributions to cinema. Their decision to sell EON Productions ensures the continuation of the Bond legacy while opening doors for innovative storytelling and broader audience reach. The sale to Amazon suggests exciting possibilities for the future, including potential collaborations with emerging artists and technologies. As the franchise looks ahead, it remains committed to maintaining the essence of James Bond while embracing new opportunities in the digital age.
The Music Academy of the West's Mariposa Concert Series is set to welcome the renowned sextet yMusic on March 10 at Hahn Hall. This ensemble, known for its innovative approach to blending classical music with contemporary influences, promises an evening filled with fresh musical ideas and collaborations. The concert will feature collaborative works by the group, alongside a new 40-minute composition by the talented young composer Gabriella Smith titled "Aquatic Ecology." This piece combines live musicians with field recordings from nature, offering a unique auditory experience that bridges the gap between the concert hall and the natural world.
A highlight of the event will be the performance of Smith's ambitious work, which reflects her deep commitment to environmental issues. Her compositions often explore the intersection of music and ecology, aiming to raise awareness about climate change and the beauty of our planet. Through this composition, Smith creates a dual platform where the sounds of the concert hall harmonize with the echoes of the earth, inviting listeners to reflect on the delicate balance of our environment. Smith's previous performances in the region have already captivated audiences, including her cello concerto "Lost Coast" premiered by the Los Angeles Philharmonic and her string quartet "Carrot Revolution," which was featured at the Ojai Music Festival.
Gabriella Smith's music defies easy categorization, drawing from a wide range of influences that span centuries and genres. Born in Berkeley in 1991, Smith studied at prestigious institutions like Curtis and Princeton, and her compositions have earned her recognition as an in-demand creator. Her upcoming projects include a commission for the San Francisco Symphony. Smith's collaboration with yMusic began several years ago, and she has developed close friendships with the ensemble members, particularly cellist Gabriel Cabezas, who performed "Lost Coast" with the L.A. Philharmonic. The synergy between Smith and yMusic exemplifies the power of music to unite people and inspire change. By fostering community and joy through her art, Smith aims to remind us that collective action can address global challenges and create a more sustainable future.