The Sampler

The Taite Prize-nominated musician (real name Shannon Fowler) on his new album Moonlight Hotel, and how it relates to his family history of gold panning in Murchison.

A second album of relaxed tracks from Titirangi-via-Wellington musician Serebii foregrounds his singing, spanning folk music as well as beatmaking.

Te Whanganui-a-Tara artist MĀ raps and sings in te reo Māori and English on her second album, pondering environmental issues while maintaining a sense of fun.

Nick Bollinger reviews Marlon Williams' first te reo Maori album.

The Montreal producer teams up with dancefloor doyens Soulwax for an album of floor-fillers with thematic heft.

On his third solo album the Ringlets guitarist balances irreverence and loveliness, branching out stylistically while harking back to the past.

After the success of supergroup Boygenius, one third of the trio finds herself under extra scrutiny, doling out lyrical breadcrumbs while enjoying a major-label budget.

Maggie Tweedie reviews Japanese Breakfast's fourth album, For Melancholy Brunettes and Sad Women. The result is a balanced and fabled collection of songs inspired by hours of reading, writing, and stepping away from a whirlwind three years in the spotlight.

Elliott Childs reviews Portland musician and Drive-By Truckers co-founder Patterson Hood’s first solo record in over a decade which features indie heavy weights MJ Lenderman and Waxahatchee. 

In this interview, musician Charlotte Yates opens up about her brand-new EP Winter’s Eye and her collaboration with producer Brooke Singer. She tells a tale about working with poet Sam Hunt and reveals details about her upcoming Aotearoa tour, in an honest look into her creative journey with Maggie Tweedie.

Maggie Tweedie reviews Throwing Muses new album Moonlight Concessions. The nine new songs from Moonlight are an effervescent addition to the band's varied and eclectic catalogue, showcasing a more optimistic and luminous sound than ever before.

On his third solo album the '90s hitmaker pays tribute to his late mother on RnB songs with uncommon depth.

An upbeat collection from the Animal Collective member hides its serious intent beneath waves of major-chord harmonies.

The sibling trio deliver their most dynamic collection of tunes, mournful and anthemic while retaining their trademark mystique.

Tony Stamp speaks to Dylan Biscuit and Kenny Sterling from Mānuka Recordings, who since 2022 have been outputting excellent funk, soul, and disco, in collaboration with local musicians.