Ngaiire is one-of-a-kind in Australia, and one of its finest vocalists, an international artist who “occupies a space somewhere between Solange and Erykah Badu with a coolness matched by a fine mastery” [The Interns]. Ngaiire’s heartbreaking voice, jazz degree from Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music, flamboyant costuming and a downbeat but inspirationfunk / nu-soul sound, earn her well-deserved Janelle Monae comparisons, with live reviews beyond favourable. The successful release of Ngaiire’s 2013 debut album Lamentations resulted in her 2014 Glastonbury debut and support slots for Alicia Keys, John Legend and Cody ChestnuTT. Early reviews for second record Blastoma praise Ngaiire’s “incredible” voice and “dynamic capabilities”. Ella Thompson's debut record Janus, which takes its name from the Roman god, is an assertive foray into the rocky road of maturation. Thompson translates this perfectly into song, with her lyrical inflections shifting between uncertain mutters, husky ruminations and empowered bellows. Her electromelancholy piles in as much optimism as it can muster without forgetting a necessary dose of reality.
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SATURDAY 14 NOVEMBER
• Latinaotearoa Latinaotearoa came from the concept of blending local flavours with
the colourful cultures of South America. Brazilian-born Auckland DJ Bobby Brazuka and Venezuelan singer Jennifer Zea create a unique live performance with Bobby’s Latin influenced soul-funk selections layered with Jennifer’s ravishing vocals. Added to this melting pot is multi-talented musician and producer Isaac Aesili. Together they create a unique and truly legitimate Latin act with a local flavour, both bending and blending the traditional music of their homelands with the modern sounds of here and now. Cumbia Cosmonauts continue to push ahead as leading innovators of the global cumbia digital and tropical bass scenes. The production aesthetic of Melbournebased Moses Iten (aka Saca La Mois DJ!!) – producing in collaboration with Thomas ‘Soup’ Campbell - is a combination of the infectious Caribbean offbeat rhythm with warm dub bass lines, sweeping synthesizers and driving beats.
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TIME
7.30pm–Late
VENUE
Max Watts PRICE $22+BF | maxwatts.com.au 17