GROOVE 107.7 FM

Is the player missing (above)?

2012-02-17T16:49:00.000+13:00

While we get to the bottom of this, please use this Alternate player link (Tunein radio) to play the audio stream if you can't see the player above.

Unfortunately Blogger.com seem to have changed our blog address from .com to .co.nz without us knowing.
This means that the player won't appear for people viewing the site outside New Zealand.
If the player above isn't visible to you, please let us know along with the country you are in chat@groovefm.co.nz and use the alternate player in the meantime.

On the Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid on Thursday Night -

2012-02-13T20:30:00.002+13:00

My guest tonite is Marina Lewycka writer of several well known novels, including her latest 'Various Various Pets Alive and Dead. Also Larry Love from Alabama 3 and the usual assortment of new music and chaos. The Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid - Thursday nights from 7.30 - only on Groove 107.7FM.

Photos & video from The Summer Vineyard Tour featuring Aloe Blac, Tiki Taane, Annabel Fay & the John Butler Trio

2012-02-06T19:54:00.001+13:00

Dean, P-Honey and the Coffee Bar Kid headed over to Daisy hill farm on Sunday, 5th Feb to check out the action. Here's a few photos of the evening:

Annabel Fay warms up the crowd

Tiki Taane puts in a great acoustic set and educates us on 'Fracking'

Aloe Blac in full flight, clearly adding his dollar's worth!

John Buttler puts on a stella performance

The CoffeeBar Kid with Tki Taane

Check out the coffeeBar Kid's video of John Butler, live at Daisy bank farm last weekend.

Interference to Groove's FM coverage - Update 2/2/12

2012-01-31T17:30:00.000+13:00

We're sorry to advise that on-air reception of our FM signal is about 50% worse than usual at the moment and a station (One eyed FM) that has started broadcasting in Newlands is breaking in to the signal. We believe there may have been storm damage to the antenna system from the high winds over the last few weeks. It seems to be a combination of the damaged Antenna system and interference from the Newlands station.

Watch this space - In the meantime, if reception's not perfect at your place:

remember you can listen online via the player above or on your mobile device via the free Tunein radio app. (Thanks IT Services and learning).

Please email the Newlands station (One eyed FM) and let them know how upset you are that you can't pick up Groove now. They have said "there can't be an interference problem because no Groove listeners have complained to them". This comment isn't really logical because the interference just comes accross as background hiss and the breaking up of our signal. You can't hear their actual station, certainly not for long enough to hear any station identification and even if you could, until now you guys wouldn't know how to contact them. Well, if you'd like to help us all out, let him know at: admin@oneeyedfm.co.nz or you can call them on: 04-478 3411. You'll be helping them out too because if they move to a new (available) frequency their own coverage will be better. We have tried talking to (ok, emailing) them but they unbelievably responded by calling the authorities and getting them to do a full inspection of our transmission site!!!
Please consider making a donation with the buttons on the right. We don't want this to be the final straw that spells the end of the only Cafe style radio station in NZ (and the last locally owned commercial radio station in Wellington).

The Groovemiester (Station Manager).

PLEASE READ: A personal appeal from Groove founder, Dean Conland

2012-01-28T21:55:00.000+13:00

If all of our listeners donated just $1 to Groove a month, we would never have to broadcast another commercial again. Our future would be assured we could obtain a licence to broadcast on 2000 times the power, and we could add more interesting program content. Unfortunately not everyone is going to do that, so we need you to consider contributing $5 or more a month. We have a 'Subscribe' option to make it easy (right hand side of this page).

If you enjoy Groove, you owe it to yourself and other Wellingtonians with style and musical taste to click the button below or on the right and help us in our time of need!

People pay up to $70 a month for subscriber TV so how bad would $5 a month or $20 every now and then be (donate button to the right for a one off of any amount) to ensure you can listen to your favourite music on Wellington's locally owned and operated cafe style radio station, the only one of its kind in NZ.

Pay as much or as little as you can and we'll love you for ever!

Remember you can catch the news on Groove with the 'Independent Network News', proudly Kiwi but not Auckland centric! Weekdays at 1pm, 5pm and 6pm on Groove 107.7FM. Incidentally, news sponsorship is available at only $70 per week including naming rights and promos.
Cheers for your support of Groove 107.7FM - A station that's actually NZ owned and handmade in Wellington for your listening pleasure!

Groovemiester

WIN With GROOVE!

2012-01-23T10:23:00.001+13:00

That's right, GROOVE is giving away HEAPS this summer.
Next up is tickets for :

WOMAD in New Plymouth on 6 - 18 March 2012

Stay tuned to Groove to be in to win.
We also gave away tickets to:

MORE FM SUMMER Vineyard TOUR

and

BIG DAY OUT (AUCKLAND)

Go to our WIN page

and stay tuned to Groove all summer (Broadcasting on 107.7FM in Wellington
or streaming above)

http://winatgroove.blogspot.com/

And now back to the Music....

Noel Gallagherclosed the show, saying 'See ya round, maybe.'

2012-01-21T01:41:00.003+13:00

No fanfare, or spectacular close. No fireworks or any kind of Rock 'n' Roll finish. Russell Brown happened to be standing next to me, smoking a joint and quipped 'Is that it? No Encore". "Don't be stupi," his mate replied, "This is still the Gallaghers. You're lucky they turned up!."

Meet the punters at BDO 2012

2012-01-21T01:40:00.002+13:00

The coffee Bar Kid is at the Big Day Out...

2012-01-20T16:04:00.005+13:00

I'm currently in the crowd watching LIVING END. The crowd is an average size but I'm expecting more following 5pm and the end of working day. Best act so far was regurgitator.

Local skater - BDO 2012 ^

<- Laying down the law at BDO 2012.

The Foam dome at the Big day out.

To follow the coffeebar kids BDO adventures, hop over to his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/#!/tim.gruar

NEWS FLASH! - Groove back LIVE on mobile apps!

2012-01-09T10:43:00.003+13:00

The Groove stream is now back on mobile applications via the Tunein radio app.
This means you can listen to Groove live in crystal clear stereo anywhere in the world on your:

I-Phone

I-Pad

Android phone

Windows Phone

Palm

Blackberry

If you don't already have the Tunein radio app, it can be downloaded for free from the App store/Marketplace or you can get the Pro version for around $1.

PLEASE TELL EVERYONE!

2011-12-24T08:16:00.003+13:00

This week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid

2011-11-07T21:48:00.010+13:00

This week we check out new music from LA Mitchell, Sharon Jones, Amira Grenell (feat. at WOMAD next year), and interview

Mike McRoberts (TV3's Foreign Correspondent) about his biography 'Beyond the Front Line' and Sports Writer Bob Howitt, who's just released 'Black where it belongs' a retrospective play-by-play celebration of the All Blacks most awesome World Cup Campaign.

Plus we GIVE AWAY two passes to Fly My Pretties IV - St.James Theatre 19 November.

All the goss on the Pretties:

Fly My Pretties will be touring the country from October through to November, with a re-imagined show, new cast and wealth of new songs. The fresh concept will see the 16-strong cast collaborate with celebrated contemporary visual artist, Hayley King (Flox). Audiences can expect a completely new production, from re-imagined costumes, to unique boundary-pushing visuals. In Act I, Flox will interpret each song from the new album into iconic images, which will be uniquely brought to life both during the performance and as an exhibition of original limited edition prints in the theatre foyers.
In Act II, Fly My Pretties will deliver a set filled with a range of their classics plus a few surprises from Live at Bats, The Return Of… and A Story.
Led by Barnaby Weir, the latest Fly My Pretties family will combine an exciting and diverse mix of established and up-and-coming New Zealand talent, with performances in Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington and Auckland.

Wellington: Saturday 19 November – St James Theatre.

For more info see: http://www.loop.co.nz/

Tonight on the Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid

2011-11-03T09:11:00.003+13:00

We take a sneak peak at what's on offer at next year's International Arts Festival. And Review and peruse Aligator Reocrds back catalogue (Now in it's 40th Year!) See you tonight from 7.30 only on Groove 107.7 FM and streaming right here!

http://nzfestival.nzpost.co.nz/ / http://www.alligator.com/

This week, the Kid goes all “bookworm” and Gets into WOMAD!

2011-10-25T16:12:00.004+13:00

This week, the Kid goes all “bookworm” with the first of his series on “What to buy for Xmas”. This week, it’s three different Rock ‘n’ Roll Legends: Steven Tyler; Dave Grohl and Katy Perry. Click here ( http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/10/this-week-kid-goes-all-bookworm-with.html) to read the reviews and don’t forget to tune in at 7.30 On Thursday Nights to “The Adventures of theCoffee Bar Kid” Only on Groove 107.7FM. PLUS, all the news from the WOMAD Launch at Parliament 26 October !

And... al last minute interview with Jo Davy - author of Spooked. see
http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-is-nearly-here.html

Stayed tuned to Groove for all the upcoming festivals ...

2011-10-18T11:11:00.006+13:00

We're all very excited at Groove. Next Wednesday 26 October is the launch of this year's line up for WOMAD 2012 in Taranaki and Groove's very own CoffeeBar Kid will be there to bring you the news on his show: The Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid on 27 October from 7.30!

Also coming up is the Big Day Out! We have interviews and other goodies in the pipeline for this one too.... more to come on that soon!

BREAKING NEWS! Finally - GROOVE STREAMING LIVE ONLINE & ON YOUR I-PHONE! - Updated 18/10/11

2011-10-14T09:42:00.002+13:00

You've asked for it many times and after sooo long, we're finally streaming online. Just click the button on the wee player above to enjoy Groove 107.7FM live in all it's Glorious Stereo Retro Digital High Fidelity.

You can also 'tune in' on your I-Phone, I-Pad, Blackberry or Android phone via the Tunein radio app available for free download!
Make sure you tell anyone you know who's moved out of town or doesn't quite have Groove reception and would love to listen "They can now listen to New Zealand's only Cafe Style Radio station on this very page (http://grooveradio.blogspot.com/)"

I'm pleased to say that within 12 hours of our stream going live, Dan from IT Services and learning was on the phone offering to sponsor the stream, enabling us to keep running it at great audio quality and 24 hours a day! Make sure you call them to fix any IT issues you have on 021-026 028 23 or go to http://www.itrepair.co.nz/.

Use the buttons below to tell your networks about the stream or with the 'Share on Facebook' button on the bottom right of this post.

This week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid: Mel Parsons & Carolina Moon

2011-10-12T20:34:00.006+13:00

This wek we have two fantastic interviews. One with West Coast singer Songwriter Mel Parsons and the other with Carolina Moon, Auckland based jazz singer and virtuoso.

Also, arather saucy review of Nicholson Barker's 'House of Holes'.

For details from theshow click the link: http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/

This week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - We go 'Man Caving'

2011-09-27T09:32:00.002+13:00

That's right in honour of the new book "The Kiwi Man Cave" by Steve Hale, the Kid looks at all the options for a small slice of Male Heaven amoungst the rabble of suburbian hell. We have website links, a book review and of course 'Cave Music" all for your Man Caving Pleasure. Frrom 7.30 only on Groove 107.7 FM

Head to the Kid's pages to learn more ... http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com

Flavours World Food Fair

2011-09-24T14:43:00.005+12:00

Jarek and I are spent Saturday afternoon on the 24th of Sept broadcasting from the Flavours World Food Fair at the Wellington Town Hall. Fine food from countries such as Malaysia, France, Thailand, Mexico, India, US, Indonesia, NZ, Philippines, Italy, Africa...

We played World music all afternoon at the venue, and on-air on Groove 107.7FM

We've had some fantastic dance performances and which built up to the start of the England vs Romania Rugby World Cup match shown live on the big screen at 6pm followed by the big one (for us Kiwi's), NZ vs France live at 8.30.

Dean - The Groovemiester.

This Week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - Other People's Wars

2011-09-20T12:35:00.004+12:00

That's right we have Nicky Hager on the show, Author of OtherPeoples wars - a comprehensive look at the New Zealand Defence Force's involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. Nicky takes us through the salent points and demysities some of the military jargon. Far from being the major conspiracy the mainstream medi have hinted at, this is a great red for anyone who wants an independent view on what's hapenin over there.

You can read a comprehensive review for yourself at: http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL1109/S00109/book-review-nicky-hagers-other-peoples-wars.htm

Tonight on The Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid

2011-09-15T12:57:00.006+12:00

New Music from the Nukes (A Westie Ukelele Band), Oval Office and Holly Smith. plus Check out everything you need to know about 'Gurbing'. See you at 7.30 tonight only on Groove 107.7FM

Click here to see more about tonight's guest : Janet Luke http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com

Expresions of interest in Groove 107.7FM

2011-09-11T15:23:00.002+12:00

Hopefully you already know that Groove is the only station of its kind in New Zealand and pretty much the only locally owned and operated independent commercial station in Wellington.

Well, we're inviting expressions of interest in the lease of the station including studio, equipment and use of transmission site either to continue Groove as a going concern or equipment/studio as set up to broadcast a format of your own choice.

As a second option, we would also consider sale of the station or equipment.

To find out more, email: dean at groovefm.co.nz or call, leaving a message if neccesary, on 04-381 4766.

Dean Conland
Station Manager
GROOVE 107.7FM

This Week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - The Kids Are All Right?

2011-09-06T11:11:00.002+12:00

This week the Kid reviews a selection of Kid's Stories and CDs, and features the book 'Lost and Found' , a delightful, Penguin tale by Oliver Jeffers. Check out the GROOVE BOK REPORT : http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/09/toddlers-are-readers-too-groove-book.html

Also, New Music from Beruit and Kimbra.

And ... a sneak peak at the controversial new book by Nicky Hager 'Other People's Wars'. We hope to get Nicky on the programme next week!.

The Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid, on the eve of the tournament of the unusual shaped ball! This Thursday Nite from 7.30PM.

Tonite on the Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid

2011-09-01T12:08:00.006+12:00

Tonite we feature new music from Caro Emerald and a Detective Novel.

Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor : Caro Emerald (Grandmono / Dramatico Records)
Dutch Pop Jazz Chantuese Caro Emerald features on tonite's show. This is her debut album. It set an all time chart record on 20 August 2010 by spending its 30th week at number one on the Dutch album chart, beating the previous record set by Michael Jackson's Thriller by one week. The album has become the biggest selling album of 2010 in the Netherlands, selling over 270,000 copies so far. On 3 October 2010, Van der Leeuw was awarded the Dutch Music Prize "Edison" for Best Female Artist.
For more infor go here ....http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/09/and-now-back-to-music-1-september-on.html

We also have a new The Groove Book Report: By Any Means by Ben Sanders - Harper Collins $24.95. A hardedged, clean cut, to the point detective mystery set in Auckland and the North Shore. Check out the transcript at http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/08/for-some-inexplicable-yet-compelling.html icable-yet-compelling.html

Tune in to the ADVENTURES OF THE COFFEEBAR KIND 7.30 PM TONITE!

The Kid will be taking a break this week

2011-08-23T21:31:00.003+12:00

But stay tuned next week for new music from Holly Smith and Caro Emerald. In the mean time here's a wee taster to tide you over:

'A night like this' : http://youtu.be/jo1cyl0QbWo

Coming up this week on The Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid

2011-08-16T20:44:00.003+12:00

We investigate the history design of innovation and product design in New Zealand with our guest Michael Smythe. Michael is the author of the fabulous new work: New Zealand by Design (A history of New Zealand Product Design). Michael is best known as a lecturer in design and former industrial designer with Fisher and Paykel and JASMAX (amongst others).

Tune in Thursday night at 7.30 to hear more about this fascinating book and also keep your eyes peeled for the 'Kid's' review: http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/

This week on the The Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid

2011-08-04T19:58:00.005+12:00

We talk to Ryan Pretties from Wellington's funky bluesy trio the Nudge - Ryan's a bro of Lee Prebble and a fellow member of Fly My Pretties. Listen in from 7.30PM to check the Kid and Ryan in full natter on the goods. The Nudge release their new album at the San Fransisco Bath House Tommottow Night (5 August from 10.30) . Big Nudge Pie is available from Monday - at all good record shops! For more check : http://www.thenudge.co.nz/ or go to http://www.sfbh.co.nz/

This Week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - Who Killed Jesus ?

2011-07-20T12:56:00.002+12:00

We talk with TV Presenter Bran Bruce and also the original Modfather him self, Mod Nodder Ray Columbus. See more at:

http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/2011/07/who-killed-jesus-who-is-modfather.html

Only on Groove 107.7FM - 7.30 Thursday nights!

Featuring on The Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid Tonite!

2011-07-14T20:42:00.003+12:00

Music from the album 'Group Hug' - Wellington's Damien Wilkins & some kind souls have put together an eccletic mix of tunes, a little Neil TYoung, a dose of McGlashan and plenty of Graeme Downes intelliagenca! This is music to treasure. My favourite for the year, next to my treasured Avalache City.

theclosereaders.com or http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Close-Readers/134682446543456#!/pages/The-Close-Readers/134682446543456?sk=info

Also, tonite a bunch of ol' has beens from the Deep South the Chaps, lead by John Dodd. They're new album "Don't Worry Bout Your Age" is a real doozy! They specialise in a lighter touch of blues, jazz and honkytonk with an album of all new and originals.

See http://thechaps.com/

Listen tonite from the Special Winter Time of 7.30PM only on Groove 107.7FM.

The Groove petrol price Guru predicts petrol about to go down!

2011-06-22T13:59:00.001+12:00

Hold off filling the car up with petrol...
As the output of our exclusive Groovamatic petrol price forecaster shows, at 22/6/11 (today) our Guru predicted that the price is about to go down to approximately NZ$1.99!
In reality, as of today it should be at $1.95 but we can't quite see them going that far.

How does the Groove petrol Guru know?

Using a secret formula based on wholesale barrel price, US$ exchange rate and 'normal' petrol company margin. The pink line is the actual price at the pump in Wellington over the last few months. The purple line is what you could expect the price to be on the day based on the factors mentioned above.

Another friendly community service from Groove 107.7FM.

It was a Big Night on the Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid - on Thursday.

2011-06-09T11:43:00.006+12:00

Oh, yeah. It's a big night we have interviews from Bob Cranshaw, Bassist with Sonny Rollins (who plays the Michael Fowler Centre this Saturday nite!).

Sonny Rollins is the original saxophone colossus, a name he earned playing alongside jazz greats Charlie Parker, Thelonius Monk and Miles Davis. Now 80, he is one of the great bebop saxophonists, and still has incredible form playing with the energy of a man half his age.

His only New Zealand concert, this is a rare treat for jazz devotees to see one of the world’s finest musicians on stage.

“By the finale, everyone knew what a jazz giant sounded like. Long live Sonny Rollins" - LONDON EVENING STANDARD

<-- more -->

Check info at http://www.jazzfestival.co.nz/ or http://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show.aspx?sh=SONNYROL11

The CoffeeBar Kid will be going along, courtesy of the Festival, to review the show, so stay tuned next week for the review!

We also have Paul Gurney, who's front man with the De Sotos - Alt blues/Country Outfit - playing at the San Francisco Bath House tonite!!

http://www.sfbh.co.nz/2011/06/09/de-sotos-album-release

And... a new Book Report - Barbara Eden's New Biography : Genie Out of The Bottle.

http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/

in other Groove News ...

Celcius Coffee takes the "Green Gold" award at 2011 DominionPost Gold Awards Celcius Coffee. One of our former sponsors (hopefully we'll have their coffee back in stock in the future!), is a boutique family-owned coffee company. They took the green gold award for positive and sustainable business practices. http://www.goldawards.co.nz/!

Finally a better use has been decided on for the sign!

2011-05-24T12:40:00.003+12:00

It's New Zealand Music Month !

2011-05-12T10:27:00.000+12:00

Where to find Music Month Events and News

http://www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/what-is-nz-music-month/

http://www.amplifier.co.nz/

Also see : http://www.radionz.co.nz/search?mode=results&queries_all_query=new+zealand+Music+Month for various audio content

Quick Dates for the Diary …

2011-05-12T10:23:00.001+12:00

21 May NZSO Eroica – MFC
22 May The Naked Violin by Tasmin Little – Illot Theatre, Town Hall
20-28 May` NZ School of Dance Choreographic Season
26-27 May ASB 2011 Stage Challenge and J Rock – TSB Arena
26 May Baby Pops – Once Upon a Time – Vector Orchestra - MFC
27 May Heat Beat Africa – Hope Bros Dixon St
27 May Completely Hollywood – St James
28 May The Checks – Bodega
29 May Third World Aotearoa Tour - TSB Arena
27-29 May The Food Show – Westpac Stadium
29 May Third World Aotearoa Tour – TSB
1-4 Jun Queen’s Birthday Jazz & Blues Festival – Expressions
2 Jun Zirigidum – Late Lounge – The Dowse
4 Jun The Pink Floyd Experience – TSB Arena
4 Jun Fat Freddys Drop – The Front Room
5 Jun King Cannons - SFBH
10 Jun NZSO Mahler 6 – MFC
11 Jun Sonny Rollins – MFC
12 Jun Greg Johnson - Downstage
14 Jun Kevin Bloody Wilson – St James
24 Jun John Rowles – St James
26 Jun Soweto Gospel Choir – St James

On the Adventures of the CoffeeBar Kid (New Time 7.30 Thursdays)

2011-05-04T16:36:00.010+12:00

We have an interview with Frances Walsh - Author of "Inside Stories: A History of the New Zealand Housewife 1890-1975" - a compendium of domesticity sourced from the many women's magazines and pages of the period. It reveals as much about how women pitched themselves and their job, as their relationship with magazines which delivered up a promiscuous mix of genres and views.

We also feature heaps of NZ Music in recognition of NZ Music Month!

http://www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/

News for NZ Music Month : Wellington Libraries NZ Music Month Events

2011-05-04T12:08:00.001+12:00

Wellington Libraries NZ Music Month Events
4 May 2011
Wellington libraries will turn into temporary concert venues - showcasing young local talent - to help celebrate New Zealand Music Month in May

Young musicians in assocation with Play It Strange, will perform their own music in various locations across the city. All of these sessions are FREE, so mark them in your diary and rock along!

Monday 16th May at 4.00-5.00pm
Ruth Gotlieb Library, 101 Kilbirnie Crescent, Kilbirnie

Tuesday 17th May at 4.00-5.00pm
Newtown Library, 13 Constable Street

Wednesday 18th May at 4.00-5.00pm
Johnsonville Library, 5 Broderick Road

Thursday 19th May at 4.00-5.00pm
Karori Library, 247 Karori Road
Friday 20th May at 4.00-5.00pm
Central Library, Victoria Street

Eli "Paperboy" Reid brings Soul to the Capital!!!!

2011-05-03T23:15:00.009+12:00

Man, this guy has energy. Like a tightly sprung bundle of hot soul energy he screeched, yowed and hotdiggity-danged his way through a two hour set of white boy and memphis R&B. Polyester, sansa-belts and lounge shirts never sounded so good. Backed by a four piece - drums, bass, rhythm and keys (Korgs and Rhodes), Reid brought the ghosts of James Brown, Isaac Hayes and Screamin' Jay Hawkins to the Bodega on a frosty autumn night. Despite the slightly undernourished crowd there was a lot of love in the room. Warmed up by our own blues legend Darren Watson, ever the professional, Reid burst on to the stage with sharpened quiff and voice fully loaded, despite this being the last of a multi-month tour. You wouldn't know it. Reid seemed like a man posesssed. His delivery was sharp and professional, reading the audience and winding them up with southern style show banter - the very same that failed for BB King last week as it happens. Reid zipped through all the hits and misses from both albums before drawing out three encores, completing with his memorable screamer "Boom Boom". Reid's music was not familiar to most of the audience and that was clear. Yet, by the end of the night there were many looking longingly for cds to purchase. If you ask me, it was $50 well spent.

- The Coffeebar Kid.

The Groove Book Report: FAB - An Intimate Life of Paul McCartney by Howard Sounes

2011-04-01T23:30:00.001+13:00

Check out another book report at : http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/

Listen to This - Alex Ross

2011-03-23T23:42:00.002+13:00

The latest Groove Book Report is online : Head over to the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - http://adventuresofthecoffeebarkid.blogspot.com/
... And don't forget to check us out Thursday Nights from 6 PM only on Groove 107.7FM.

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON TO NEW ZEALAND'S LARGEST WORLD PARTY

2011-03-16T09:53:00.004+13:00

Gather your friends and family together and head to one of the world's most stunning venues for a three-day celebration of global culture.

... And Groove will be there - DJ's P-Huny, Dean and Jarek will be on the ground reporting with Live Crosses to the Studio, and featuring tunes and interviews all WOMAD Weekend!

What's happening on Saturday?
SATURDAY LINE-UP INCLUDES
Oooh check this : Tiki Taane, Lawrence Arabia, Paddy Free, Trinity Roots, Rhombus with Michael Tuffery, Carolina Moon, Maisey Rika, The Cat Empire, Don Letts, Sidesteppper, The Barons of Tang, 17 Hippies +++ lots more!!!!

And more : the newly announced artists: 17 Hippies (Germany), Sidestepper (Colombia), Mana Maoli(Hawaii, United States), Tray So (Cambodia), Tiki Taane and the Dub Soldiers with Te Pou o Mangataawhiri (NZ), Lawrence Arabia (NZ), Will Crummer and The Rarotongans(Cook Islands/NZ), the Patea Maori Club (NZ) and Whitireia Performing Arts Group (NZ) will perform at WOMAD New Zealand 2011 at New Plymouth’s Brooklands Park and TSB Bowl from 18-20 March. These artists join an outstanding line-up of performers from every corner of the globe delivering musical styles from calypso to afro-celtic, Inuit throat-singing to Mongolian rock, ska-fused rockabilly to electronica and everything in between.

And a little history ....

WOMAD was founded in 1980 by Peter Gabriel, Thomas Brooman, Bob Hooton, Stephen Pritchard, Martin Elbourne and Jonathan Arthur.

The first WOMAD festival was in Shepton Mallet, UK in 1982. The audience saw Peter Gabriel, Don Cherry, The Beat, Drummers of Burundi, Echo & The Bunnymen, Imrat Khan, Prince Nico M' barga, Simple Minds, Suns of Arqa and Ekome amongst others performing. Since 1982 WOMAD Festivals has travelled all over the world, bringing artists to numerous locations and entertaining over one million people.
Ethos

From the outset, the WOMAD name has reflected the festival’s idea; to be embracing but non-definitive, inspiring and outward looking; and more than anything, enthusiastic about a world that has no boundaries in its ability to communicate through music and movement.

WOMAD has always presented music that they felt to be of excellence, passion and individuality, regardless of musical genre or geographical origin. WOMAD encourages collaboration amongst the artists they invite to perform.

Adult workshops are taken by the musicians and will involve dance, musical instruments and discussions. Children's workshops involve painting, circus skills, graffiti, modelling, story telling and more.

Taste The World. Musicians cook a choice of dish from their home country in front of an audience. Global Market. The Global Market sells international food and wares.

WOMAD in the UK takes place in the grounds of Charlton Park, a stately home in Wiltshire. The arena holds at least 8 stages with a further one in the Arboretum. An old fashioned steam fair, global market, children's area, wellbeing section is also found on the WOMAD UK festival site.

WOMAD Charlton Park falls on the last complete weekend in July.
WOMADelaide, Adelaide, South Australia. WOMAD New Zealand, Taranaki, New Zealand. WOMAD Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi. UAE WOMAD Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain. WOMAD Sicily, Sicily, Italy. WOMAD Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain.

For more information go to http://www.womad.co.nz/

2011-03-10T21:56:00.003+13:00

http://www.redcross.org.nz/cms_display.php

2011-03-10T21:36:00.003+13:00

We're back at the biggest party in New Zealand. WOMAD is back at the Bowl of Brooklands. Gather up all your friends and head to New Plymouth for a three day weekend of partying, Music anddance fromall over the world. This week we're giving away a three day ticket with camping. Listen out to win!

Groove is going to be their with interviews, blogs, and photos so stay tuned to this blog for moredetails.

The line up is huge go to www.womad.co.nz for more info ...

Join us for the 350 Birdman competition tomorrow.

2011-01-22T13:23:00.004+13:00

P-Huny and I will be down at the main stage for the competition, tomorrow Sunday 23, 10am – 5pm at Taranaki St Wharf, Frank Kitts park and the waterfront (Monday 24 Jan if wet).

You can enter online or on the day. See http://www.birdman.org/ for details on 3 stages of bands, Crafts market, information stalls, Kids rides and activities, Food court, Kids talent quest and Birdkidz as well as the Main Birdman competition (from 12).

If the weather looks dodgy tomorrow, listen to Groove 107.7FM to find out if it's been postponed till Monday (or phone 384 1998 from 8am).

Groovemeister

The CoffeeBar Kid is back

2011-01-18T22:08:00.007+13:00

Back and refreshed the CoffeeBar Kid is back and raring to go. This week we have blues/alt country artists Mercury Crow in the studio and with guitars in hand. Check out their new single "Kiss Me or Kill Me" sounding like early Stones or Black Crowes they are all swamp rock and down home blues.

See their website: http://www.mercurycrowe.com/

A tremendous loss - No more Barry

2011-01-12T22:35:00.002+13:00

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Barry Lakeman, host of 'Blues with Barry' and other shows on Groove for around 8 years. Barry died of Cancer on the afternoon of Sunday the 9th of January.

As well as a broadcaster on Groove and other stations previously, Barry was an R & B and Blues musician, Blues enthusiast, quiz writer, IT Project Manager, playwright, actor, friend, car rally organiser and navigator, train enthusiast, magazine maker, father, brother, husband, uncle, lover of life and questions and theatre, and much more.

Thank you Barry so much for all you've given to Groove over the years; the talent, wit, musical knowledge, professionalism, humour, enthusiasm and dedication to the station. The longest standing member of the team apart from the Coffebar kid and myself. I always appreciated you manning the fort on-air when others of us were broadcasting down at the beach or at the Organic river festival etc. You are already sorely missed from Groove and will be dearly missed by me personally.

Dean Conland - Groovemiester.

A public memorial service was held at Downstage Theatre. In great Barry style it featured excerpts from his plays including the premiere of a short play he wrote in the last few months.

Sad news - No more Ruby Lounge

2010-12-22T22:23:00.000+13:00

Just as they were coming up to Summer - the glory time for bars, the plug was pulled on Wellington's custom designed performance bar and resturaunt for the slightly older among us.

As so often is the case, it was exactly the sort of venue that people had been saying Wellington needed for so long but if you don't go out and support these ventures that people bravely put their time, money, hearts and souls into, then they're not going to last. Maybe people are happy to just know that it exists and not feel the need to actually go and visit. Sadly it doesn't work like that - and now it doesn't exist.

All the best to Alun, Laura, Tony and the team. Here's hoping for a resurection.

(Remember not to let GROOVE 107.7FM go the same way).

The Groovemiester.

Tonight on "The Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid"

2010-11-10T22:25:00.006+13:00

Tonite and exclusive with Author Josh Easby, former Manager of Radio Hauraki and Journalist, turned publisher abot his new book "Live: Gigs that Rocked New Zealand".

Whether they played a pub or a stadium, whether small and local or a big international action "Live... " documents some of the best moments and stories from concerts perfomed in NZ over the last 30 od years from Gene Vincent to the BDO extravaganza this book covers every one and every thing - almost. No WOMAD, we commiserate. But we'll get to the bottom of that too. Check out www.fishpond.co.nz for more info.

Also, the 'Kid talks to Country/Caberet Act Jesse James and the Outlaws about her upcoming show at the San Fransciscio bathouse and her new album - "The Price of Gum".

Check out their video 'Angila' on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAQdzFc5lVE

Band members include - Ryan Prebble (Bond St Bridge), Mara TK (Fly My Pretties), Justin Firefly, Tm Prebble, James Coyle and of Course Jesse Moss

St. Peters Hall - Paekakareki - 13 November

San Franscisco Bath House - Nov 14

www.myspace.com/jessejamesandtheoutlaws

Groove 107.7FM Goes to the WOMAD LAUNCH

2010-11-04T15:21:00.002+13:00

This is from the Dominion Post Tuesday 2 Novemenr 2010 (The Launch was Thursday 28 October) - For the complete WOMAD line Up go to http://www.womad.co.nz/artists.htm

Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid: Tonite

2010-11-04T14:19:00.007+13:00

Hi, Groovers swing on in! Tonite we have :

The 2011 WOMAD line Up - Groove was at the official Launch last week and has all the news! (see the pic above - we made the society pages in the Dom Post!)

Also we have interviews with Emma Paki (an her new CD) and Ian Chapman - author of "Kiwi Rock Chicks, Pop Stars and Trail Blazers. "

And we also have an interview with Folk/Country Artist Eva Prowse. So tune in from 6PM tonite on Groove 107.7 FM

Links:
Eva Prowse - http://www.myspace.com/evaprowse
Download Music, Buy Album and Check gigs Dates

Emma Paki - You tube clip for 'Century Sky' - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JebNIvpiKWo&feature=related

WOMAD : Link to the Artist Line Up - http://www.womad.co.nz/artists.htm

Vaughn Roberts & Tranquillo at the Groove jazz lounge this Wednesday 17 Oct

2010-10-17T21:11:00.003+13:00

This Wed sees the return of the fabulous Vaughn Roberts and friends with some Latin Jazz spice from Tranquillo.

Vaughn Roberts - trumpet, Ben Wilcock - piano, Mostyn Cole - bass, John Rae - drums.
It was another great night last time they played and bound to be even better this week. See the calendar and more details below or go to the Ruby lounge website (link right and below).
Support The Ruby, Groove and live jazz in Wellington at the same time!

This Wednesday The Flamingo Trio at The Groove Jazz Lounge...

2010-09-28T14:31:00.006+13:00

The Flamingo Trio - A night of classic jazz, with a light splash of blues, jazz funk and jazz R&B. No cover charge of course, from 7.30pm.

Kirsten Te Rito, James Illingworth and Rick Cranson will be mixing it up with sassy vocals, hot drum licks and retro organ styles, the Flamingo Trio combine a selection of jazz, blues, funk and R&B. Versatile vocalist Kirsten Te Rito has graced many a stage. Standout appearances include Disney's “The Lion King” in both Melbourne and Shanghai, backing vocalist for the pairing of the Little Bushman and the NZSO as well as fronting R&B/soul group Bebe Deluxe. Pianist and composer James Illingworth is a regular on the Wellington music scene and can often be found ripping it up to an appreciative audience. His recent credits include the Recloose Live Band, Iva Lamkum, Rio Hemopo, Lisa Tomlins and Bebe Deluxe. Drummer Rick Cranson from the well known Kiwi psychedelic rock group the Little Bushman exudes class, skill and talent.

As always, the third set will be an open jam, so bring your instrument/voice (and maybe charts?)

At The Ruby Lounge, upstairs, 14 Bond St from 7.30 every Wednesday night, in association with Groove 107.7FM.

Tessa Quayle's Groove Jazz Lounge debut!

2010-09-21T18:12:00.005+12:00

Another great vibe at the Ruby lounge last Wednesday with Vaughn Roberts and Tranquillo.

This Wednesday it's the first time at The Groove Jazz Lounge for Tessa Quayle.

Tessa will be performing two sets of vocal jazz, in an intimate setting of bass and piano accompaniment, with the wonderfully talented Nick Tipping and Ben Wilcock. The third set will be an open jam, so bring your instrument/voice (and maybe charts?) Tessa has just this year released her debut album ‘Whisper Not’ which has received positive and high rating reviews. This album also features the sensitive yet creative playing of Nick Tipping and Ben Wilcock, along with Reuben Bradley and Lex French. Tessa also teaches voice, both privately and at the NZSM jazz programme, and directs the NZSM Vocal Jazz Ensemble.

The Groove Jazz lounge a blast

2010-09-09T19:20:00.006+12:00

Man, what a great vibe at the Ruby lounge last Wednesday with the Reuben Bradley Trio that became on Octet! One of the great things about the Groove jazz lounge is that you don't know quite what, who or how many you're going to get on the night. Even the band can't be sure!

Last week was a great example with Jonathan and then Terry Crayford both playing accoustic piano, up to 3 saxes at once including a visiting New york player, Paul Dyne on bass, lovely female vocals by someone who's name gone out of my head sorry! (I'll update that bit) and none other than the infamous talented street performer, Toby, beat boxing on some tunes! (Sure I've missed someone).

For the full calendar and more details go to the Ruby lounge website (link right and below).

Support The Ruby, Groove and live jazz in Wellington at the same time!

Groovemiester

The Groove Jazz lounge live every Wednesday

2010-09-07T14:18:00.002+12:00

We've teamed up with The Ruby Lounge in Bond St to bring you the best Jazz live on stage in the great atmosphere that is the Ruby lounge.

The third set is a Jam set as always. Turn up and join the band! The Wednesday Groove Jazz Lounge in sponsored by us at Groove 107.7. No cover charge, from 7.30pm on.

Check out the details at http://www.therubylounge.co.nz/

Welcome to new Groove announcers DJ Mesala and P-Huny on Friday and Monday nights respectively. As always check our shows page on the right for more about what goes on weekly on-air.

Streaming live online

2010-06-29T13:42:00.004+12:00

You've asked for it many times and...

Groove 107.7FM is finally streaming online in glorious retro digital hi-fidelity stereo. Just click play on the bejewelled player above.

Make sure you tell anyone you know that has moved out of town or doesn't quite have Groove reception and would love to listen: "they can now listen to New Zealands only Cafe style radio station live online by going to www.groovefm.co.nz and clicking the news link (or if they're in a real hurry, go straight to www.grooveradio.blogspot.com)

You can also listen on your I-Phone, I-Pad, Android phone or Blackberry via the free 'Tune in radio' App.

Please email (or post on Facebook) anyone you think might want to tune in.

Fighting the good fight for lovers of Wellington cafe style radio and local music for over 10 years.

There's a new Groove on Friday nights!

2010-06-25T15:34:00.002+12:00

Make sure you check out the latest addition to our on-air line up:

FRIDAY NIGHTS from 6.00 - 9.00
:: The Mesala Groove Show :: BRAND NEW!!
DJ Mesala spins old school tunes and new grooves: Jazzy funk, RnB, Acid jazz, Jazz house – basically feel good music to get your vibe going for the weekend, bringing the soul groove back. The new feel of Friday night.

Email DJ Mesala with requests or feedback at djmesala@groovefm.co.nz and don't forget to check Groove's weekly program by clicking the 'Shows' link on the right.

New, improved bumper stickers and T-shirts now available!

2010-06-03T15:41:00.008+12:00

Our new, longer lasting bumper stickers are finally here! (thanks to Manky Chops - it's hard to find a good bumper sticker in Wellington!). Give us a call if you would like some (381 GROOVE) or click here to email us.

Even better, our new, more stylie T-shirts are here in Groove go fast red or stylish chocolate mens or womens. We can rush one of these out to you with free delivery and a pack of Celcius fairtrade, organic coffee and some bumper stickers all for $30!

Again email, call or click to buy online:
You'll look great, your coffee cravings will be more than satisfied and you'll be supporting your fav radio station!

Stay tuned and tell your friends!

The Groovemiester

Groove heads to the Food Show.

2010-05-20T14:48:00.010+12:00

The Coffeebar kid with a Masterchef

Newboy Jarek on-air

The Groovemiester lays down a Groove.

Yep another food show and we had a blast! Dean, Jarek, P Huny, Jerry and the Coffee Bar Kid were there sampling, slurping and sniffing the fantastic fare on offfer. Thanks to the wonderful ladies at Celcius Coffee who made us lovely latte's and espressos. Also thanks to Lisas, our Booth buddies opposite for appreciating our grooves. A massive hello to all the listeners who came to see us and ask about what we do. Many stickers are now plastered over walls, bumpers and text books around Wellington. Display with pride! A couple of snaps above... More at http://www.flickr.com/photos/groove1077fm/

Groove broadcasting live from the Food Show this weekend!

2010-05-12T14:48:00.006+12:00

Come grab your longer lasting Groove bumper sticker, free Celcius coffee and say Hi to us at stands 160 & 161 at the show.

Stay tuned to Groove this week for free tickets!

Groove goes to WOMAD this weekend

2010-03-10T10:42:00.009+13:00

Groove goes to WOMAD, Bowl of Brooklands, New Plymouth.
The three day Festival of World Music and Dance kicks off on Friday 12 March with a Powhiri and then the amazing US outfit Hypnotic Brass Ensemble. If you've been listening to the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid over the last month you would have hear them and many other WOMAD artists talking about their work and the upcoming performances.
Groove will be videoing, bloging and doing live crosses from the festival on Saturday and Sunday. Tune in for more.

WIN + WIN + WIN + WIN ON GROOVE 107.7 FM :
If you fancy a free ticket listen out all this week for a chance to win both admission to all three days AND a three day camping pass worth over $250.00!

WOMAD is not to be missed.
As family friendly event, the Coffee Bar kid will be taking everyone in his 'cafe' (family) - including Latte Girl, Moccacino (aka Groovy Bear) and Lil' Fluffy. The event is characterised by people having fun responsibly; there are viewing platforms for the seniors and wheel chair bound; plenty of Space; a dedicated kidspace and Zoo; a world of amzing food stalls; specialist shops and amazing vendors on offer.
Groovesters Dean and Tim (AKA the Coffee Bar Kid) went last year and were blown away by the event.

Tickets are still available. Check the Website for gig times, tickets, prices getting there or just to sample some of the bands: http://www.womad.co.nz/womad_index.html

Newtown Fair this Sunday!

2010-03-02T14:46:00.006+13:00

The Wellington festival that tops them all is here!

The festival flagship is The Newtown Street fair this Sunday 9.30am - 4.30pm.

6 Performance stages (Main, Community, Wilson St, Green St, DJ Stage, Buskers Pitch.
320 Stalls
Childrens rides
Classic cars & rides
Street performers
50 000 people
Groove playing tunes by the classic cars

The lineup includes Iva Lamkum, Sam Manzanza & the Afro beat band Good Laika, Jesse James & the outlaws, Tyson Smith, Mara TK, Olmecha Supreme, Capoiera, Monroe (heard on Groove), dance, choir and a whole heap more!

More info on the website: http://www.newtownfestival.org.nz/

See you there :)

Groovemeister

I'll have a flat white with one. This week with the Kid

2010-02-17T20:51:00.008+13:00

This week on the Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid (Thurs 6PM) :
We are very excited to have Sacha Vee in the house. Sacha has a Dutch West Indian background and has been singing since her early teens. She took out the prestigious Tauranga Jazz Festival 'Best Vocalist Award" at the tender age of 16. She's done her digs with P-Funk Expressway, Departure Lounge, Oval Office and Rare Shot Blue, and now Ladies and Germs, she's launching her own EP. And Joins us after 6Pm to play her favourite tunes and chat with the Kid.
Get a Taste of Vee at:
www.myspace.com/sachavee

Sasha Plays Hope Bro.s form 10PM on 20th Feb ,
and Don't miss out an in Store at Real Groovy from 1PM

Plus, we have Anna Coddington on the Phone - trailblazing pop diva appearing at WOMAD this year, that gig just gets hotter!

Jump online and check Anna at : http://www.annacoddington.com/

The Coffee Bar Kid is in the House!

2010-02-03T16:19:00.002+13:00

This week the Kid's been super busy recording interviews with Jenny Morris, whose here for the International Festival of the Arts (Pacific Blue Lounge), Tama Waipara (Who plays the Ruby Lounge on Friday) and Andrew Spraggon of Sola Rosa (Headling One Love Festival on waitangi Day) Also there's new Music and the usual range of caffine based offerings: Get you weekly fix from 6PM every Thursday Night only on Groove 107.7 FM.

Check Out :
Jenny Morris : http://www.jennymorris.com/
International Festival of the Arts : http://www.nzfestival.nzpost.co.nz/
Sola Rosa http://www.solarosa.com/blog/
One Love : http://www.amplifier.co.nz/news/54094/one-love-2010-top-ranking.html

Phew! What Big Adventures!

2010-02-03T15:45:00.003+13:00

Groove has been super busy over the last week at the launch of the Fringe Festival, arranging artist interviews with the International Festival team and camping out at the Organic River Festical in Kiberly Reserve, Levin.

Fringe Festival Opening.
On Thursday (28th) Nite hundreds of sweaty punters crammed into Mighty Mighty to witness the opening of the Fringe Festival, now in its 20th year - Happy Birthday Fringe! Highlights were Raybon Khan, who compared, insulted the crowd (in jest) and untertook a one man stand up comedy show all in one! Also The One Night Stands (Cabaret Act), who sung Jazzy Brit Spear's numbers, impressed and (Festival CEO) Zelda's School Mam act, as she demanded the crowd quieten down for the formal side of the proceedings an act to see by it self! On our Flickr page you'll see photos and a brilliant shot of a 'girl' jumping out of a rubber cake - It's the Fringe, had to be done! go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/groove1077fm/ and select the "Fringe" set.

The full Programme is on: http://www.fringe.org.nz/

Organic River Festival.
On Friday night Dean and Pam upped sticks and headed for the Organic River Festival (29-31 January 2010). The camping grounds are now spread over two distinct paddocks areas, a vast improvement from last year as the access and general layout is far more welcoming and flexible. Management of the site improved too with greater security onsite and a zero waste rubbish policy including staff on hand to advise about what is recyclable and what is not.

This 'reporter' hit the Festival on Saturday and was treated to a swim in the local river, and a fantastic day of music and food. Mike's organic Beer was a highlight. Also a number of stalls offered vegan burgers, ice cream and other treats. Despite being a carnivore I was impressed with the quality and value for money of what I ate, almost makes me give up meat - almost! Musically, headliners An emerald City, who'd just flown in from Paris, were a highlight. Their swirling East-European musical offerings were mesmeriing and hypnotic. Medicine Crow, who performed earlier, put up a brave display, despite the earlier slot, and consequential smaller crowd and Jess Chambers won over hearts with her set. Watch out for that girl, she'll go far.

Roy G and the Bivinators played a brilliant set too. Their music is similar to John Butlers, wth plenty of distorted guitars and bluesy bass at the core of each song.

The weekend turned on a stunner. At one point I measured 29 Degrees down by the river, and even after sun down we were still in our tees and shorts. this year's Organic River Festival despite a smaller, lesser known line up of guests and artists was spectacular. With a chilled relaxed family atmosphere, low achol pressense and a good security and management structure, this is a festival on the rise. the Cherry on the top was strolling back to my car, some 50 metres from the event I was offered a lift on the back of the security guards' quad bike so i would,nt have to fumble around in the dark - all class! Check out http://www.flickr.com/photos/groove1077fm/ and click on the Organic River Festival Set.

Miho Wada : Interviewed on-air

2010-01-22T14:17:00.009+13:00

Japanese Jazz Punk artist Miho Wada (who toured worldwide recently with Ska Cubano including Womad 2009) popped in to chat with the Coffee Bar Kid last night to promote the Pajama Party Concert at Watusi.

She also played inhouse at Real Groovy, PJs optional on that one.

The Return Of the Coffee Bar Kid

2010-01-20T12:48:00.012+13:00

Yep, the Kid is back - Every Thursday on Groove from 6.

This week Punk Jazz peformer Miho Wada. Miho will be chatting about her upcoming Gig at the Watusi and playing tunes from her debut album "Postcards to your bed" available from CDbaby.com and amplifier.com .

http://www.mihowada.com/

Karen Hunter also dropped by earler in the week to chat with the Kid about her Wednesday Gig, her new Album : Words and Groove and to sing a few tunes - Live! We'll replay that interview.

Karen also wanted fans to contact her via facebook and email. Go to her site: http://www.karenhunter.com/

Photos from Karen's interview:

Merry Yueltide from All the Gang at Groove

2009-12-17T14:53:00.000+13:00

Do your bit for the Welly jazz scene!

2009-12-16T16:52:00.001+13:00

For 8 years now, Groove has been privately funded. That fund is no longer available. We don't get any money whatsoever from NZ on air, WCC, grants, or the government. In fact, all we get is a bit from our lovely advertisers but it's not enough to keep the station on-air. If you enjoy Groove, you owe it to yourself and other Wellingtonians with style and musical taste to click the button below and help us in our time of need!

People pay up to $70 a month for subscriber TV so how bad would $20 every now and then be to ensure you can listen to your favourite music on Wellington's locally owned and operated cafe style radio station, the only one of its kind in NZ. (Click the button below). You can also call us on 381-4766 to set up an auto payment or make a credit card payment over the phone.

Pay as much or as little as you can and we'll love you for ever!

Find yourself feeling down by the end of the week? Starting in January, Bryan Howard again brings us 'Reflections' at 5.45 Friday nights; A thought for the week and your antidote to the weeks negativity.

Remember you can catch the news on Groove with the 'Independent Network News', proudly Kiwi but not Auckland centric! Weekdays at 1pm, 5pm and 6pm on Groove 107.7FM. Incidentally, news sponsorship is available at only $70 per week including naming rights and promos!

More news soon!

Groovemiester

Shakin' them Lovely Bones on the Red Carpet

2009-12-14T17:16:00.002+13:00

Peter Jackson's New Movie:
The Lovely Bones Premieres at the Embassy, courtenay Place!

The Coffee Bar Kid was on hand with camera earlier in the day to photograph the laying of the red plush for the event. Our tickets must have been lost in the mail.

WOMAD hits the 'Naki, Once Again!

2009-11-06T13:48:00.001+13:00

We, at Groove are super excited. We popped along to Parliament last Tuesday and were a part of the launch of WOMAD, a major side project of the Taranaki Arts Festival. Last year was a blast and this year will be even better. Dean and Tim are planning again to head up to New Plymouth and will be crossing live to the studio, blogging and posting on the Weekend of 12-14 March.

But we are getting ahead of ourselves. What's on offer? Well among the events are over 6 stages with constant acts, a kids area that is better than any crech+library+craft house you ever went to. Then there's camping, circulating arts events, a monks' tent (from Tibet) and food galore (not hot dogs and chips but real good local and international stuff!) not to mention an international market.

Artists to watch, (assuming you have time!) Are: Calexico (very excited about them), Don McGlashin's reincarnation; the Bellbirds, a 10 piece called Babylon Circus; Eddi Reader (Fairground attraction - It's got to be...Perfect!); Eliades Ochoa from the Buena Vista Social Club; Ethiopiques (One of the original funksters from that part of the world) Hypnotic Brass Ensemble ( the Eight siblings of Sun Ra's Trumpeter, Phil Cohran); Newcomer Iva Lankum from Welli; Rapper Ladi 6 LA mitchell from NZ and heaps more.

You gotta GO this year! We'll be doing a pile of special features leading up to the festival so stay tuned!

Keep on Groovin'

http://www.womad.co.nz/

Groove is clean again!

2009-10-08T15:41:00.000+13:00

What do I mean by that???

For around 6 weeks or more we have actually been broadcasting a 'messy' signal through no fault of our own. George FM have admitted that they have been 'overmodulating' (basically broadcasting too loud) with the result that they spilling over the band and affecting the link between our studio and transmitter and causing our on-air sound to be full of static a lot of the time.

They haven't corrected things at their end although they promised to about a month ago but the good news is that we have forked out and upgraded some gear at our end to stop their interference and Groove should be sounding better than ever (we've also fine tuned our audio processing).

Please tell you friends and Whanau to tune back in and stay tuned for more news shortly...

Groovemiester.

Breaking News - Fly My Pretties do a 2 nd Welli Show - Yeha!

2009-04-23T11:26:00.000+12:00

The Pretties havwe added a Second Welli Show: Sat 13 June - St James Theatre to their gig guide. Fly My Pretties is New Zealand's favourite live multimedia event starring a selection of our finest contemporary musicians, set to a stunning visual backdrop and filmed and recorded live! An absolute must see, the new show is sure to set your imagination alight and indulge your senses with future and past Pretties classics.

Led by The Black Seeds front man Barnaby Weir, the new Fly My Pretties will deliver plenty of fresh ingredients to keep the shows surprising and progressive. The Return of Fly My Pretties shows in 2005 sold out quickly nationwide so don't miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary experience. Tickets are on sale NOW!
Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch tickets are available here from Ticketek.
Dunedin tickets are available here from TicketDirect.
Show dates:
Christchurch: Fri 22 May - Isaac Theatre Royal
Dunedin: Fri 29 May - The Regent
Auckland: Thurs 4 June, Fri 5 June, Sat 6 June - Sky City Theatre
Wellington: Fri 12 June - St James Theatre

The line up includes:

Singer Anna Coddington, Barnaby Weir, Mike Fabulous, Tom Watson, Riki Gooch, Ryan Prebble, Jarney Murphy and Nigel Patterson(all of Black Seeds), Bluegrass Specialist Eva Prowse, Christchurch Funk Diva (Lauren) L.A. Mitchell, Our own Lisa Tomlins, Mara T.K, Nathan (Nato) Hickey, Paul McLaney (Gramski), Rio Hunuki-Hemopo (Trinity Roots) and Tessa Rain.

Back on Air - Tonight Thurs 23 @ 6 - Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid

2009-04-23T11:16:00.000+12:00

Yep the Kid is back in the House and spinning up a storm. On tonite's prog: The latest from JJ Cale; Kiwis An Emerald City; Kora goes to the Cabaret (Voltaire), plus a review of the Pink Panther 2 - all this and more only tonite at 6 - C u Latte!

http://www.kora.co.nz/
http://www.jjcale.com/
http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/thepinkpanther2/

Groove at WOMAD

2009-03-17T21:16:00.000+13:00

The Coffee Bar Kid and DJ Dean had a fantastic time at WOMAD 2009 in New Plymouth. Huge ups to Lauren Clough and Lisa Mullen and all the fantastic people in the Media Centre. We rubbed shoulders with Natasha Atlas, Members of the Jerry Can Band, Anika Moa, Mihirirangi, Shona Laing and Warren Maxwell from little Bushman, amongst many others. We took many photos and you can see those on our flickr site http://www.flickr.com/photos/groove1077fm. Highlights would be Seun Kuti (son of Fela) who's live energetic show was amazing - the man is tall and dominant on stage - challenging the "rulers" of Africa he communicated with his audience with his funk overdrive. Dean commented that the guitarist was able to maintain the same chord riff for over 20 minutes. Apparently their timing is within 1000th of a Second - It showed. Little Bushman was another highlight, as was meeting Warren Maxwell - whom we interviewed - stayed tuned for details of when that will play. Warren was definitely buzzing after his performance.

If you've never been to the Bowl of Brooklands, you are missing a treat. A natural vocanic bowl, it makes a oerfect ampitheatre, music from the mainstage drifts up through the bowl. We arrived on Friday night and the sounds of an Indian Group was wafting around the setting. The night was very still and the lighting of trees, awnings and the Gables (an old house once used as a hospital) was very pretty, very serene.

The WOMAD venue had 7 stages, all changing each hour. Seun Kuti commented that he'd never performed with a clock on stage. Artists get exactly an hour to play, then in the hour's down time the crew set up for the new show. Meanwhile on another stage, or even two new acts are going on. To cover the possibility of missing an act all artists perform at least twice.

Acts we made sure to catch on the second show were Gurrumal and Dengue Fever. Gurrumal, , Blind from birth, is a very shy yet still charasmatic performer. He was very gentle on stage simply singing and playing with his small band, but clearly in charge.

Dengue Fever are an interesting act, a band fronted by a genuine Cambodian pop star, and 'staffed' by a Sikh, a very tall Afro American, a Moslem (I think) and a Chinese drummer, a truley international band. These guys were certainly an eye opener, as was the film about their trip back to Cambodia and their interest in Cambodian surf music, which played after their show that night.

Other highlights were the Children's Parade. WOMAD has taken care to include children, who were everywhere at this event. There was a large kids area with a zoo, crafts, music and entertainment, plus a project to work towards: the kids parade - all the kids made the banners, floats, signs and all the costumes. Well done to all who participated. And to the Otters in the petting zoo - enjoy the quiet days ahead, it's all over now.

But what isnt over is the interviews and music we brought back. Over the next few weeks the Coffee Bar Kid will bring you sights and Sounds and Musical samples from WOMAD 2009 - checkout Adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid - Thurs 6-8 PM only on Groove 107.7 FM. And now back to the music....

Groove goes to Womad 13 - 15 March

2009-03-12T13:50:00.000+13:00

Yes you heard right. Groove will be at WOMAD in the 'Naki all weekend. We'll bring back interviews, photos and hopefully some CDs too. It should be a fantastic weekend. Groove will be in full on camp and groove festival mode. Stay tune for more reports from the big festival. In the mean time check out the line up and the events at Womad. Go to : http://www.womad.co.nz/

Wellington Jazz Festival - Check Out the Pictures

2009-03-12T13:45:00.000+13:00

Click the Image or go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/wellingtonjazzfestival/

Otis Taylor - Wellington Jazz Festival 5 March 2009

2009-03-06T13:01:00.001+13:00

Despite a few technical hitches with pedals, Otis and Dughter Cassie managed to pull off a great informal blues soaked nite. Cassie, his daughter who plays bass came out singing an a capella version of 'Mona Lisa' before Otis strung up his banjo for a few no.s from his atest 'Recapturing' the banjo. bluegrass this aint as he pointed out this is African music. Otis who originally hails from Chicago later demonstated his Hambones, a knee slapping,rhytm thing which he extended to a song accompanied by two impromtu 'dancers' he'd plucked from a visit to Te Papa earler that day. the guys were on stage performing Haka in tie to Otis' harmonica and Cassie's throbbing bass. An interesting, humerous twist. You couldnt really say that Taylor was all blues but his stuff has appeal at many levels. His version of 'Hey Joe', a rare cover brought the house down, especially the guitar solo performed by one of his band mates ('When BB King plays my songs, I'll ply his"). Taylor uses a throbbing strum, in a cyclic motion to build up the rythm section of his songs, no drums required, although in his case un-needed. He uses distortions, via the elusive wah-wah peddle to create sound scapes ove which come the convention and familiar gravelly vocals and singalong choruses. Initially I was sceptical of his inclusion at a Jazz Festival, as he's more a pop/blues thing. but over all, and given his popularity with the crowd, this was a great and enjoyful choice.

Check our Photo album for more photos of the gig.

Photos of the Pacific Blue Lounge - Jazz Festival 4 Mar 200

2009-03-06T12:47:00.000+13:00

Wellington Jazz Festival - And Otis Taylor

2009-03-06T12:13:00.000+13:00

Wednesdays Night kicked off the Wellingotn Jazz Festival with a very nice Corpoarate do and some fine music. The Pacific Blue Lounge, the major venue for the festival is actually the Wellington Town Hall. With a difference: By 'recycling' the floor from Last Year's festival show 'The Black Watch' back into the Edwardian designed Town Hall, the crew have raised the floor to the level of the 1st flr Balcony: 'We lowered the ceilng by raining the floor' - fran Wilde Festival Chairwoman. Cassie Taylor, daughter and Bassist for Otis, told the assembled that they'd 500 8 yr olds earlier that day 'testing' it out, as part of a workshop they held - and the floor was safe. thank mingus for that!

The intro evening went off wth a Bag! The Kid met Kirsten Johnstone from Music 101, Cassie Taylor, Members of Twinset and Fat Freedy's Drop plus Chilean Bandleader Cristian Cuttorufo (who played one wicked jam during the intro nite). Also plaing was LA Mitchell (Who brought the house down with her powerful voice, especially on Hall and Oates' "Rich Girl"), Mike Nock who palyed some introspective ditties and Otis Taylor - who'd already done a blues for Children workshop earlier that day ( See pic above).

The Coffee Bar Kid is in two minds about this year's festival. While this year it's gone big time as an alternation with the International Arts Fesitval and run by the International Arts Festival Team, the underground, skoey independence has gone. Gone, too is the intimacy of some of the venues. the Pacific Blue Lounge is great, but still an auditorium. BUT, but this year's international line up far supercedes what previous festivals could attain, given the sponsorship deals and team now on the board. Let us thank many times over the previous chairs and organisers and thank the new crews too for a great Festival. Last year's Venue Happy was just a little too dingy, so the new venue the Pacific Blue Lounge, uplifts and does give one the chance to pack in the Punters.

I also want to personally thank Sarah at Transmit, who understands that while Groove is a smaller pplayer, we can contribut to the Media mix. Sarah sends us CDs, interviewees and keeps us in the loop re the festival and many other artist endevours - Kia Ora, Sarah! Oh and love those funky hats!

The Kid took a couple of Photos of thePacific Blue Note which are on the next Blog - Check 'em out.

Laters - Coffee Bar Kid

We're BACK!

2009-03-06T11:53:00.000+13:00

Hey. Hey. Coffee Bar Kid Here and back on line. Life has been full on for the Groove Crew. Dean has had a new Kidney replacement, The Kid's new daugther, Katie was born on 15/2 (Forever to be known as DJ Demitasse - get it), and the Wellington Jazz Festival is up and running. Plus, Groove Goes to WOMAD in New Plymouth next week. Whew!

OK, first tings first. Big ups to the mysterious donor who provided Dean, our Station Manager with the kidney. Dean had been suffering from a condition that slowly saw the shut down of both hiskidneys and had already forced him on to dialysis. thanks to the gerous donation, Dean was able to re-gain his life, and dignity again. it also meant he could look forward to working full time again (Dialysis involves long periods of down time while the 'blood cleaning' process goes on - 12 hours every 2 nights on average, it varies) What that means, is that the possibility of leading a life, less a night life is severly restricted. When Dean went on holiday a couple of years ago he had to drop into prescheduled hospitales to dialise - you get the idea of how diabilitating this can be. So long story short, Dean's op went well last year and an enjoyable, relef-ful, Xmas was held. Dean's now back on his feet, gainful employment has smiled on him, and perhaps love, too. Yes you heard right. Welcome to the lovely Pam, who is frequenting Dean's new life.

Speaking of Greeting, the Kid would like to say a big Theankyou to Katie-Kat - who has now departed us to Christchurch. Rergular Thursday listeners will have heard her and the Kid on Air late last year getting up to all hhi-Jinx. We'll Miss Ya, Kat. Aroha!

And welcome to the new Kat. Bearly 2 weeks old she's already grooving to Sola Rosa's new album, Kate Elizabeth Gruar joined the home crew at the Kid's house on 15 February, after the usual birthing excitements. Kate, DJ Demitasse, to you, loves pink, milk and sleeping but is keeping her options open - not dought her sister McKenzie will be looking for oppotunities to subject her to Hi-Five and Hannah Montana. But you'll be please to know, Baby Jazz, the CD is very big at the residence right now, thanks Mingus for that!

Speaking of Mingus, the Mingus Big Band plus loads of others are at the Wellington Jazz Festival this week! Yo Yo Mama! As is the Sexy Melainie Pain, whom I saw in a little off-festival bar show last nite, what a voice, babies! Sarah at Transmit very kindy hooked the Groove team up with some Tickets to see shows, Roy Ayers and Otis Taylor were fan froggin'tastic. See my review on the next blog.

Finally Groove will be doing the Do at WOMAD (you heard us!) Next weekend (13-15 March) in the 'Naki. The artist list is massive check the links for the scedule - Looking forward to seeing Anika Moa, Speed Caravan, Gurrumul and Fat Freddy's Drop to name but a few.

Well I gotta blog more often - my fingers are burnin' Blog soon Groovers, Ka kite Anou - Coffee Bar Kid

The Woolshed Sessions: Did you catch the Interview with Jess Chambers and Age Pryor?

2008-10-07T13:12:00.000+13:00

Last Thursday on "The Adventures of the Coffeebar Kid" (Thurs 6PM) We were honoured to have the multi talented Jess Chambers (Solo Work, Rhian Sheehan) and Age Pryor (Solo Work, Wellington Ukekle Orchestra, Fly My Pretties) in the studio to talk about their latest project : The Woolshed Sessions.

What's resulted is an album, a deluxe limited edition version (incl Session Photos by Andy Morley-Hall) and a live October Season at Bats - Thurs 9, Fri 10, Sat 10 (2 Sessions) & Sun 11 (2 Sessions)

http://www.bats.co.nz/plays/08/The-Woolshed-Sessions.html

Or phone 802 4175

The Woolshed Sessions music was captured on an improvised recording set-up; essentially a borrowed collection of nice microphones plugged into a tired old computer as the musicians worked four days straight, morning, afternoon and night. The tunes are mostly fresh songs written by various members of the eight strong collective. These songs were jammed and then recorded ‘live’ - everyone singing and playing together, often with many attempts made until getting a version down that was felt to be ‘the one’.Throughout is the ambient resonance of the space the music was created and recorded in – a converted woolshed with bare timber floors, lined with plywood and clad in corrugated iron looking across the Takaka Valley.

For more details go to http://www.myspace.com/woolshedsessions

LA Mitchell In town for 1 Show

2008-10-07T12:54:00.000+13:00

Just in LA Mitchell the Canterbury Jazz/Soul Singer is in Town to release here new album "Lve at the Matterhorn"

Playing at the Famous Matterhorn 8 October
- contact them on 03 849918

Background:: The evening of April 23, 2008 was a watershed moment for LA Mitchell as she prepared to perform. This was no ordinary gig, nor was it an ordinary venue. It was a triumphant return to Wellington to play at the world famous Matterhorn, following in the giant footsteps of Fat Freddy's Drop at the same venue that catapulted them to heights never before reached in NZ music.
For the entirely independent Kiwi musician, the performance represented a significant new stage in her career, when she would build on the success of her acclaimed 2007 album Debut with an album that would solidify her status as one of the rising talents of homegrown music.
LA Mitchell: Live at the Matterhorn is a gorgeous album of her original music spliced with new tracks and reinterpretations of classics. The album sees Mitchell uncork a sparkling collection of seductive soul and jazz, that reveals her undeniable talent as both a singer-songwriter and musician.
Recorded live one special evening at the famous drinking and dining venue, to a crowd that was tightly packed in and full of anticipation, LA Mitchell: Live At The Matterhorn captures the magic of the atmosphere. Playing at the Famous Matterhorn 8 October - contact them on 03 849918

Here's Our Photo Album

2008-09-01T15:11:00.000+12:00

Check Out Photos from the Food Show on Flickr.com. See link to the right: Groove Photo Album (OR copy this to your address line : http://www.flickr.com/photos/groove1077fm/sets/72157605077150582/)

What a month!!!

2008-08-29T14:32:00.001+12:00

Well! Where do I start? We were on and off-air a fair whack for a couple of weeks there with 3 different transmission faults! One of our transmission masts fell over. We got that fixed but still no signal. What are the odds that the transmitter at a different location blew up at the same time! Got that fixed and then a few days later the power at the transmission site went out. Luckily it's all fixed now and we're happily back on-air, sounding great.

The technical problems didn't stop there though. We must have had a power surge in the studio I think as we also damaged the emergency backup power, the no.2 PC, 2 x turntables, on-air desk, CD player...

As you can imagine, there is a bit of a repair bill (although a big thanks to Phil for helping out). So, now would be a great time to donate some money to the worthy cause that is Groove 107.7FM. Remember, we are the only station of our kind in NZ and we, to date, have had no funding from anyone apart from our fabulous advertisers and donations from you wonderful listeners. Scroll down the page to find out how to donate.

On a personal level (and while all this was happening) I had the fantastic luck to have a successful Kidney transplant, amazingly from a complete stranger who wanted to do a good deed (while living)! I believe that this is only the second time this has happened in Wellington. After being on the waiting list and on dialysis for nearly 5 years it really was a case of prayers answered. I'm incredibly thankful to the donor (who I have not met). It all went perfectly and the doctors said I was their star patient. By the way, if you want to be an organ donor, having it mentioned on your drivers licence is not enough (in fact it's irrelevant). You must tell your family/next of kin your wishes. They are the ones who make the decision in the event of your passing...

Anyway, back to ramping Groove up a gear. Lots of new music to get on-air.

Stay tuned and feel free to contact us for any reason.

Groovemiester

GROOVE IS BACK AT THE FOOD SHOW

2008-05-13T17:41:00.001+12:00

Go here to read more about the Food Show and the Exhibitors : http://www.foodshow.co.nz/index.cfm/Home

Carrara Park Jazz Picnic (Sat 7/3/08)

2008-03-07T15:52:00.000+13:00

Come and join us down at Carrara Park in Newtown for the Jazz picnic as part of the Newtown festival.

Free live jazz from midday from Deja Blue, Premo 4tet, Warick Murray and Jessie James and the Outlaws (who blew everyone away at the Parihaka festival) as well as music from Groove in between. The forecast is great so come and join us!

The park his a hidden gem, down the short path opposite Donald McLean St (see http://www.wises.co.nz/ for a map).

Entertainment runs until 5.30.

Jazz News!

2008-02-05T15:28:00.000+13:00

There are 2 Wellington jazz Club gigs this month;
The welcome return of the 10th avenue band from San Diego, 1 day shy of a year since they last performed for us. Tight swing and trad jazz on Wednesday the 20th of Feb at the Loaded Hog ballroom from 7.30.
Feb 24th sees Eric newton - popular English clarinet player - return once again to bring us that classic jazz sound at Old St Pauls. 5pm start. Both concerts are $15 or $12 for members of the Wgtn JAzz Club.

The 46th National Jazz festival is comming up over Easter in Tauranga. Stay tuned to Groove 107.7FM formore details.

Also, the International Festival of the Arts features some jazz artists this time around. Again, more information on Groove.

Supporting the community and especially the jazz scene, Groove 107.7FM, NZ's only cafe style jazz radio station!

Jonathan Crayford meets the Coffee Bar kid

2007-11-08T16:34:00.000+13:00

Tonite at 6.oo the Coffee Bar Kid meets Wellingtonian (Pianist)Jonathan Crayford to discuss his upconimg show on Friday night at the Illot theatre.

Also, tune in to Groove at 5.30 to hear Nils Wogram talk about his show at 7.00 Tonite (Illot Theatre) and win tickets!

About Jonathan Crayford.
Jonathan Crayford went to New York in 1993 after many formative years with his father Terry (also a piano player/composer) and mentor Bruno Lawrence (drummer/actor).

Playing piano in the house band of the St Mark's Bar in Manhattan’s Lower East Side he became involved with many of the players active in New York and securely established himself as collaborator with some of the finest musicians in the world.

On invitation he returned to New Zealand to perform at the International Festival of the Arts with a powerful jazz trio and to date continues to maintain frequent contact between both bases. In 1998 he toured over 20 countries including Canada, the United States and Europe with Warner Brothers record artists Groove Collective (a 10-piece acid jazz group from New York).

He is currently a member of Bill Ware’s Y2K Jazz Quartet, Kurt Rosenwinkel’s This, and the Dave Binney Group. He has performed and recorded with Groove Collective, Baaba Maal, Victor Jones (Chaka Kahn, Michelle Petruchiani), Clifford Barbaro (Betty Carter, Sun Ra Arkestra), Jay Rodriguez (Ray Barreto, Chucho Valdez) and Afro/Cuban master percussionist Eddie Bobé (Jaco Pastorius, Eddie Palmieri). He is also a key member of New York based Afro/Cuban band Mambo Macoco.

Jonathan has gained international recognition and is in demand as an instrumentalist and composer. He has made it to the cutting edge of the New York scene within many genres of music. In addition to performing and recording, Jonathan composes orchestral scores for feature films and television programs, one of which picked up Best Original Score at the New Zealand Film Awards. More recently he has been composing on commission for New Zealand classical concert pianist Danny Poynton.

We interviewed Mike Nock

2007-11-08T11:46:00.000+13:00

At 1.00 the infamous Composer and pianist Mike Nock popped in fresh off a plane from Aussie.

About Mike Nock

New Zealand born pianist/composer Mike Nock is one of the acknowledged masters of jazz in Australasia. His reputation rests partly on his imposing international experience which includes ...

twenty-five years working in the USA with many of the world's top jazz musicians such as: Coleman Hawkins, Yusef Lateef, Dionne Warwick, Michael Brecker, etc...
a large catalogue of critically acclaimed, internationally released recordings
his role as leader of the 1970's seminal jazz-rock group The Fourth Way
a substantial body of original compositions in print and on recordings

"Nock's ringing iconoclasm pervades all his music, taps a deep well of melody that transcends jazz and informs and ignites his every encounter."
- Fred Bouchard, Down Beat (USA)

Photos From the Opening of the Jazz Fesival / Tui Awards

2007-11-07T12:58:00.000+13:00

Tuis - 2007 - And the Winner is....

2007-11-07T12:22:00.000+13:00

A huge congratulations to Wellington's own Charmaine Ford ("Busy Silence") who took out last night's top award for the best Jazz album of 2007 against two time winner, Kevin Clark (with "Zihara") and the sultry indegenous Jazz of Whiramako Black (with "Soul Sessions").

The award was presented at the Opening night of No.11 Wellington International Jazz Festival (6-14 November) and also featured the Edward Ware Quartet (Edware on drums, Anita Scwabe on piano, Nick van Dijk on Trombone/Euphonium and Paul Dyne on Bass.

A great turn out for opening nite. the place was pack to the gunnels. "Happy" is the old Cricketers Arms Bar in Tory St and a great "Seedy" underground location for late night Jazz. Big Ups to the Organisers, esp Megan.

Ford's album Busy Silence BUSY SILENCE was release in December Dec 2006 featuring
Charmaine Ford (piano/composer)
Tom Callwood (bass) & Reuben Bradley (drums)with special guest Johnny Lippiett - tenor sax

It recieved 4-stars (NZ Herald, Feb '07)
“One of New Zealand's True Piano Masters”
WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, NZ

“Charmaine Ford has sealed her reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading Jazz Pianists”
CHRISTCHURCH INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, NZ

"Charmaine Ford has established herself as one of New Zealand’s most innovative and fearless voices in jazz"
TAURANGA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, NZ

"Charmaine Ford has a maturity of jazz expression that belies such youth. This is her debut album and it’s a classic"
NZ MUSICIAN MAGAZINE, NZ

"A rising star of New Zealand Jazz Piano"
DOMINION POST, NZ

Capital city-based pianist Charmaine Ford’s ‘Busy Silence’ has tonight been named the New Zealand Music Awards Best Jazz Album of the Year at the Wellington International Jazz Festival.

Ford is a former finalist in the category at the 2004 awards for her debut album ‘Blues for Guppy’. She also played piano on the 2006 Tui winning jazz album, Vaughan Roberts’ ‘Grrrreat Stuff’.

And her connection with the music awards doesn’t stop there - in 2005 Ford had 12 months individual tuition from 2007 Classical Music Tui winner John Psathas.

Today only 27 years of age, Charmaine Ford was born in Tauranga and started her piano training at age six. After moving to Auckland two years later she became heavily involved in jazz ensembles at Rangitoto College both as a player and a leader.

She has won numerous national Jazz awards since she started gigging professionally at age 16. In 1999 Charmaine studied in London on a Royal Schools of Music scholarship. Charmaine has performed and toured throughout New Zealand and Australia and has been selected as pianist for the New Zealand Youth Jazz Orchestra on four occasions.

‘Busy Silence’ was released in December 2006. The self-penned album has been described as highlighting Ford’s distinctive style as a composer, arranger and producer as well as capturing her skills as an improviser.

New Zealand Music Awards spokesperson Campbell Smith describes Ford’s win as “thoroughly deserved recognition of a dedicated and talented jazz musician”.

“For someone still so young, Charmaine’s achievements in the genre are already almost legendary. She is a most worthy recipient of the Jazz Tui for 2007.”

Charmaine’s win will be acknowledged at the New Zealand Music Awards 2008.

Today in the Studio ; Dean talks to Edward Ware

2007-11-06T12:03:00.000+13:00

As part of the International Jazz Festival Dean talks to New York based percussionist Edward Ware who brings together a quartet of musicians to explore the concept of Rothko meets Monk. Ware, a composer and drummer based in New York, and local musicians Paul Dyne (bass), Anita Schwabe (piano) and Nick Van Dijk (trombone and euphonium), have rearranged Thelonious Monk tunes to create a blend of fresh colours and spicy harmonies. RIANZ presentation of the 2007 JAZZ ALBUM OF THE YEAR award.

We are at the Wellington International Jazz Festival 6-14 November

2007-11-06T11:36:00.000+13:00

Once again its on! And Groove will be there!
The 11th Wellington International Jazz Festival, seven nights of exotic and inspiring sound art.

The Ilott Theatre at the Wellington Town Hall hosts four concerts, featuring a dazzling mix of international stars, including the return of some of New Zealand’s finest jazz exports, and local stars.

Happy (Cnr vivian and Tory Sts) presents a gloriously diverse exploration of elegant small group jazz & avant-garde explosions via sweaty boggy blues and wild big band adventures.

The festival features big names like Mario Canonge, Mike Nock, Nils Wogram & Root 70 (Germany/New Zealand), Jeff Henderson, and keyboard virtuoso Jonathan Crayford

Check out all the action: http://jazzfestival.co.nz

DON’T MISS THIS EXPLOSION OF JAZZ & BLUES TALENT... COME OUT AND PLAY!

What is Mo-vember?

2007-11-06T11:28:00.000+13:00

Movember - Changing the face of Men's Health
Movember (the month formally known as November) is a charity event held during November each year.

At the start of Movember guys register with a clean shaven face. The Movember participants known as Mo Bros then have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache and along the way raise as much money and awareness about male health issues as possible.

Movember culminates at the end of the month at the Gala Partés. These glamorous and groomed events will see Tom Selleck and Richard Hadlee look-a-likes battle it out on the catwalk for their chance to take home the prestigious Man of Movember title.

While growing a Mo is left to the guys, Mo Sistas (ladies that support their guys or love Mo's!) form an important part of Movember with their powerful feminine touch, by recruiting Mo Bros, helping to raise funds and attending the highly anticipated Gala Parties.

But it's not all fun and games, so why the extreme behaviour?

Which ever way we look at it, men are far less healthy than women. The average life expectancy of a man in New Zealand is 4 years less than a woman.

The obvious question is why?
The answer is because men lack awareness about the very real health issue they face, have an attitude of "she'll be right" and are reluctant to see a doctor about an illness or to go for regular medical checks.

The aim of Movember is to change these attitudes, make male health fun by putting the Mo back on the face of New Zealand men and in the process raise some serious funds for the number one male health issue, prostate cancer.

Every year in New Zealand 2,656 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and about 600 die of the disease, making prostate cancer the second largest cause of male cancer deaths, after lung cancer.

Movember is very proud to be partnering with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand [ www.prostate.org.nz ].

All donations are made directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand who will use the funds to create awareness, increase support networks for those men who suffer from prostate cancer, fund research and scholarship programs.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand is a registered charitable organisation. All donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

We challenge you to change the face of men's health.

Movember - Changing the face of Men's Health
Movember (the month formally known as November) is a charity event held during November each year.

At the start of Movember guys register with a clean shaven face. The Movember participants known as Mo Bros then have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache and along the way raise as much money and awareness about male health issues as possible.

Movember culminates at the end of the month at the Gala Partés. These glamorous and groomed events will see Tom Selleck and Richard Hadlee look-a-likes battle it out on the catwalk for their chance to take home the prestigious Man of Movember title.

While growing a Mo is left to the guys, Mo Sistas (ladies that support their guys or love Mo's!) form an important part of Movember with their powerful feminine touch, by recruiting Mo Bros, helping to raise funds and attending the highly anticipated Gala Parties.

But it's not all fun and games, so why the extreme behaviour?

Which ever way we look at it, men are far less healthy than women. The average life expectancy of a man in New Zealand is 4 years less than a woman.

The obvious question is why?
The answer is because men lack awareness about the very real health issue they face, have an attitude of "she'll be right" and are reluctant to see a doctor about an illness or to go for regular medical checks.

The aim of Movember is to change these attitudes, make male health fun by putting the Mo back on the face of New Zealand men and in the process raise some serious funds for the number one male health issue, prostate cancer.

Every year in New Zealand 2,656 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and about 600 die of the disease, making prostate cancer the second largest cause of male cancer deaths, after lung cancer.

Movember is very proud to be partnering with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand [ www.prostate.org.nz ].

All donations are made directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand who will use the funds to create awareness, increase support networks for those men who suffer from prostate cancer, fund research and scholarship programs.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand is a registered charitable organisation. All donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

We challenge you to change the face of men's health. Go to

Where's Dean been?

2007-09-12T09:00:00.000+12:00

Well, It’s been a tough old time at Groove over the last 6 weeks. You may have noticed some elements like the News and Weather and some programs missing at times and a lack of new music. I’ve been in hospital for 2 ½ weeks followed by several weeks recuperating at home after exploding my large intestine!

Now kids, if ever there was a reason to eat your fruit & veges when mum tells you to this is it! We’re talking life threatening. Agony. I’m told it is worse than childbirth. Anyway, with complications (the fact that I’m already on dialysis for kidney failure, like Jonah Lomu - leading to a 2nd operation under general anaesthetic within 3 days) I’ve been hopelessly out of action and Groove has been just going through the motions. (Thank you to Tim and the rest of the team for soldiering on).

Everything should be back to normal over the next week or so but it means the station is now in a more precarious state than ever. If we don’t get a few good 6 month sponsors it’ll be the sound of silence and memories of when radio was worth listening to. Please contact us if you would like to find out more about advertising/sponsorship or you have ideas of organisations we should be calling. You can call me directly on 021-457368.

More immediately, as a listener, please scroll down the page and click on the ‘make a donation’ button below and help keep us on-air in the meantime.

Thank you to those who already have.

Catch you soon with more positive news and stay tuned!

Dean Conland, The Groovemiester.

Have Coffee with Holly Smith

2007-08-08T20:59:00.000+12:00

This Thursday nite (11 August) Holly Smith pops in to talk to the Coffee Bar Kid about touring, choirs and a Wellington homecoming. From 5PM - The adventures of the Coffee Bar Kid.

All the news

2007-02-22T14:43:00.000+13:00

Hi Guys

Well 'Riverfest Groove 88.1FM', the on-site station at the Organic River Festival was fantastic. Our first time broadcasting from a big pink bus - nice. We simulcast highlights from the main stage which sounded great. People could chill back at their tents (or in Levin) and still hear what was going on on the main stage. It also meant that the other performance areas could play the station in between acts. A fantastic information & entertainment tool for any major event. Don't hesitate to call us if you're planning an event and would like the on-site radio specialists to be involved!

Listen to Groove 107.7FM for details of the 2007 Newtown Festival including Wellingtons biggest annual street party, the famous Newtown Fair on Sunday 4th March. Join 40 000 people with 6 performance stages, a DJ stage, around 220 stalls, childrens rides, street performers and Groove playing music and broadcasting from the cafe area.
Are you in business? We are sponsoring Brad Sugars 'Billionaire in Training' world seminar tour. At 35, Brad is a self made millionaire and owns the worlds leading business coaching firm. We have double passes to his Wellington Seminar on busines, property, wealth and success valued at $139.90 to give away. Stay tuned to Groove for your chance to win! The Wellington seminar is on Thursday 8th March.

Till next time, stay tuned and tell your friends!

Groovemiester.

Get Organic with Groove!!!!

2007-01-18T17:43:00.000+13:00

Groove is rapt to be part of the Organic River Festival in Levin, 26,27,28 February. We'll be gettin' Down'n'Groovy, broadcasting on 88.1 FM (Riverfest Groove FM). We'll be playing a mix of our finest tunes and simulcasting all the action from the two live performance stages and, of course, keeping you up to date with all the festival programme info and news. Not only that but for you Groovers trapped in Wellington they'll be regular crossovers back to the station here at Groove Towers, so you'll know what you're missing.

For more info go to http://ecofest.co.nz

The Big OE

2006-12-06T11:12:00.000+13:00

Hi, ho. We're back. The website is back up. Check it out at www.groovefm.co.nz, especially the Grooveland Section. Send us in your favourite photos and stories and we'll add them. Big news this week. Well, in town for Dec 6 and 7 is OE:Brazil featuring Hollie Smith, Barnaby Weir, Maaka Phat and a host of Brazillian Players. This is not to be missed. They'll be at the San Francisco Bathouse from 10PM each nite. Zip over to Real Groovy to pick up a ticket.

Xmas is around the corner, only 18 Sleeps, whew! Groove is featuring your favourite Groovy Xmas songs right now, so tune in.

Speaking of on air, welcome Andy and Tim! Andy's got he Comedy show on Groove around 7PM on Monday nites - check out the live and less than dead (LOL) recordings. Say goodbye to Monday Blues!

Eco kiddies can check out the Ecobots Children's Show on Saturday mornings with Leah - details on the Website.

Next year, Groove will being going Organic - no we're not going to be rolling in the mud! - we'll be at the Organic River Festival 27-28 January, Broadcasting live on the local airspace and up on stage! Check http://www.ecofest.co.nz/ for details.

More news as it happens.... later

Milky Bar Kid

Rumble Thru the Cheese

2006-08-31T17:14:00.000+12:00

Yep Tonite from 6.00 (Thurs) A collection of Swingin' Cheese from the Ultra Lounge Collection, Robert Mitchum and others plus highlights from the 2006 Comedy Festival - Join us at Groove 107.7 FM from 6.00PM