WOMAD 2015 - New Plymouth - 15 -17 March 2019

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Review: Pussy Riot (San Fran, 12 March) Wgtn Fringe Festival

The Coffee Bar Kid checks out Russian counter culture legends Pussy Riot and how art will always triumph over the great machine of conformity, regardless of the adversity.

The new WOMAD Australasian Compilation is out now!

Set among the trees, lake and view of the mighty Mount Taranaki in stunning 55-acre Brooklands Park and TSB Bowl of Brooklands, WOMAD New Zealand 2019 will see the festival celebrate its 15th anniversary in New Plymouth, 15-17 March 2019.

The internationally established three-day world music, arts and dance festival WOMAD is all about artist discovery and once again, the 2019 festival features an array of artists from all corners of the globe.

The latest compilation of artists performing at the internationally renowned WOMAD Festival is available now via Inertia / Border Music. Giving you a chance to get to know your WOMAD artists BEFORE the festival next week!

Featured on the 2019 Australia and New Zealand 2019 compilation is:
1. Angelique Kidjo – Once In A Lifetime
2. Taiwu Ancient Ballads Troupe & Daniel Ho – Qai Qai
3. Sharon Shannon – Rusheen Bay
4. Sona Jobarteh – Fatafina
5. Jamie Smith’s Mabon – The Space Between
6. Las Cafeteras – Tiempos De Amor
7. Shantel – Bucovina (Haaksman & Haaksman Soca Bogle Mix)
8. Dona Onete – Tipiti
9. La Dame Blanche – Mentira (feat. Mantiega (Batuk))
10. Baloji – L’hiverindien
11. My Baby – Electrified
12. Maarja Nuut & Rum - Haned Kadunud
13. BCUC - Nobody Knows 

The 13 artists represented on the compilation are just a mere snippet of the forty act strong WOMAD 2019 line up! Artists from countries as varied as Benin, Belgium, Ireland, Wales, Mexico and Greece are invited to Aotearoa to share their cultures, identities and heritage. They'll be sure to tell ancient, joyous and powerful tales via a mixture of traditional and modern performances. From upbeat Afropsychedelic party vibes to quiet moments of reflection and meditation, WOMAD 2019 will feature cellos, bagpipes and voices. WOMAD is a dizzying cocktail of exhilarating experiences for all. With over 40 local and international artists, WOMAD New Zealand is excited to deliver this discoverable and eclectic line up.

Herbie Hancock plays the Jazz Festival 5-9 June Artists Announced (more to come)

We are thrilled to share with you the first release acts for 2019 Wellington Jazz Festival – starting with undisputed legend of jazz, Herbie Hancock, who will open the Festival at the Michael Fowler Centre on Wednesday 5 June.

The full programme will be announced on Monday 15 April. 




Tickets for everything go on sale to the general public at 10am on Wednesday 13 March, so secure your seats early and we will see you at the Michael Fowler Centre in March for some serious play.

The first release of this year’s programme also features the explosive funk ensemble Ghost-Note, ground breaking trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire, and the exquisite vocalist Alicia Olatuja.

A new commission from composers Lex French and Jasmine Lovell-Smith performed by Canadian/NZ collaborators CODE Quartet, along with perennial favourite the Rodger Fox Big Band spearhead the distinct sounds of New Zealand jazz.

HERBIE HANCOCK

I like to discover new rules so I can break them.
That’s where innovation comes from, that’s what keeps me playing.

Herbie Hancock Winner of 14 Grammy Awards during his illustrious career, Herbie Hancock has had an unparalleled influence on acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B for more than five decades.

In 2019, the 79-year-old maestro remains at the forefront of world culture, technology, business and music.

AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE QUARTET

 The most distinctive, elusive and ultimately satisfying trumpeter of his generation.

The New York Times Motivated by the spiritual and practical value of art, Ambrose Akinmusire aspires to create richly textured emotional landscapes that tell stories of the community, record the time and change the standard. Ambrose's acclaimed quartet will deliver a powerful performance of genre-defying music that sits within the centre and at the periphery of jazz, while intersecting the circles of hip-hop and classical music. Thursday 6 June 8pm 

GHOST-NOTE

 A sprawling kaleidoscope of sound, passion, funk, and might. Okayplayer Friday night is all about the Funk with explosive ensemble Ghost-Notepromising seductive danceable grooves and a contagious feel-good energy.

Headed by Snarky Puppy’s multi-Grammy Award-winning percussion duo of Robert ‘Sput’ Searight and Nate Werth joined by a stelllar line up of next level musicians, this is one energy-charged evening not to be missed.
Friday 7 June 8pm

ALICIA OLATUJA
 A singer with a strong and luscious tone and an amiably regal presence on stage.

The New York Times Alicia Olatuja has been astounding audiences with her exquisite vocals, artistic versatility and captivating demeanor.

Her critically-acclaimed album Intuition: Songs from the Minds of Women, celebrates the achievements of esteemed female composers including Brenda Russell, Sade, Tracy Chapman, Kate Bush, Angela Bofill, Joni Mitchell and Linda Creed.
Saturday 8 June 8pm

JOURNEYS IN SOUND: NEW MUSIC FROM AOTEAROA AND THE WORLD
A powerhouse collective of Canada’s leading jazz composers and improvisers,

CODE Quartet features original compositions that draw from each member’s unique background, along with the premiere of new compositions commissioned by the Festival.
Saturday 8 June 3pm 

SIMON O'NEILL AND THE RODGER FOX BIG BAND The Rodger Fox Big Band continues to defy musical boundaries in a stunning collaboration with international opera star and New Zealand native Simon O’Neill. Spend Sunday afternoon in the company of giants.
Sunday 9 June 3pm

MC Tali will be at WOMAD 2019

New Zealand's most famous drum and bass export MC Tali has become a prolific artist in the international electronic scene. Originally from a dairy farm in Taranaki, this multi award-winning MC is a fiercely talented freestyler and a soulful singer who has worked her magic with some of the biggest names in the drum and bass scene.

Tali often works with Liquid Lowdown founder and DJ and radio host - Chiccoreli. Originally hailing from London, since arriving in New Zealand more than six years ago, Chiccoreli has played at several festivals around the country including Rhythm and Vines, Rhythm And Alps, Wanderlust, Northern Bass and Splore.

Sat, 10.30 pm, Gables Stage
Sun, 3.00 pm, OMV Taste the World

LAS CAFETERAS will be at WOAMD 2019

Las Cafeteras fuse Afro-Mexican, hip-hop, folk and First Nations rhythms into songs of activism and celebration. Generating a genre-bending sound and electric live performance with four versatile vocalists, their lyrically rich storytelling shares the hidden stories of migrant life in Los Angeles.

Sat, 2.00 pm, TSB Bowl Stage
Sun, 1.00 pm, Todd Energy Brooklands Stage
Sun, 7.45 pm, OMV Taste the World

Angélique Kidjo will be at WOMAD

In 1980 Talking Heads’ Remain in Light album, heavily influenced by the music of West Africa, caught the attention of a young Angelique Kidjo in Paris. Hearing it again years later sparked the idea of a full circle deconstruction that seemed only natural. Using Afrobeat horns and percussion, and infusing the lyrics with new meaning, Grammy Award-winning Angelique brings her stunning twist on a classic album to WOMAD in March.

Fri, 9.30 pm, OMV Taste the World
Sat, 10.30 pm, TSB Bowl Stage

Congress of Animals will be at Womad

A star-studded collective of kiwi songwriters and solo artists have joined forces to bring you the epic supergroup that is Congress of Animals. It started as a jam session with friends from some of New Zealand’s best bands - including Trinity Roots, Fly My Pretties, and Flight of the Conchords, and has blossomed into a full blown touring group with a thrilling, eclectic and upbeat feel. 

Sat, 6.15 pm, Te Paepae, workshop  Sun, 7.45 pm, Dell Stage 

THE CORRESPONDENTS United Kingdom Back by popular demand!

One of WOMAD NZ’s most beloved performers of all time are coming back to wow us with their trademark sound of unique, genre-mashing alternative pop. The Correspondents – singer Mr Bruce and producer Chucks - create hi-octane, genre-blending dance music. Mr Bruce scats rapidly and dances as though his life depends on it, whilst Chucks takes the audience on a journey through a smorgasbord of genres; from jazz and blues to electro and drum ‘n’ bass.

With their unique aesthetic and insane energy, live shows by this duo live long in the memory. Fri, 9.30 pm, Todd Energy Brooklands Stage Sun, 2.00 pm, TSB Bowl Stage   

Coastella 2019 - Southwards Car Museum, 23rd February 2019

CW Stoneking - Photo by Tim Gruar

Hey, Hey Groovers.  Coastella Music Festival 2019 – Kapiti Coast Boutique Music Festival celebrates summer in style with huge crowds from around the country and the cream of music, food , drink and culture!

The Beths - Photo by Tim Gruar

Clear skies and a bumper line up brought out colourful crowds for Coastella this Saturday 23rd February on the Kapiti Coast. Over 3,000 people attended Saturday’s event, which featured music from 10 local and international acts. Now in its 4th year, the boutique festival has grown to attract audiences from the greater Wellington region, as well as attendees from Auckland thanks in part to Air Chathams’ new Auckland to Kapiti route.

Warren Maxwell, Trinity Roots - Photo by Tim Gruar

Mama Kin & Supertonic - photo by Tim Gruar

Festival goers young and old flooded the grounds of Southward Car Museum, and were welcomed with a Whakatau, led by local kaumatua Manu Parata and Mahutonga Blankensop. Everyone gathered around the lush natural amphitheatre, relaxing on the grass and settling in.

Photo by Tim Gruar

Auckland blues-rock band The Miltones kicked off the music for the day on the Coastin’ Dell Stage, playing an energetic and captivating set. After that, soaring melodies drew crowds over to the Amphitheatre stage, with Australian duo Mama Kin Spender performing with Wellington choir Supertonic in a special collaboration. The 24 voices filled the grounds, capturing everyone’s attention with their tight harmonies. Mama Kin Spender frontwoman Danielle Caruana closed the set with a warm message, saying “You want to be punk? You want to be rebellious? Go out there and show your love.” Later in the day Australian jungle-rock blues artist C.W. Stoneking wowed audiences with a simple solo set on the Coastin’ Dell Stage, surrounded by native bush and buzzing cicadas.

Photo by Tim Gruar

Photo by Tim Gruar

Auckland’s The Beths had a sizable crowd on the Amphitheatre stage, thanks to their swift rise in popularity since the release of their debut album in 2018. Aotearoa’s finest emerging bands Ha The Unclear performed on the ‘Coastin Dell Stage, and Dunedin indie-rock band Soaked Oats played the closing set on the stage for the night. As the sun began to set Trinity Roots took to the Amphitheatre and delivered a heartfelt one hour set laiden with the liquid basslines and smooth harmonies that they’ve become renowned for over their 20 year career. The night ended with a whole lot of brass, with Brisbane based Bullhorn closing the Amphitheatre stage, followed by the Richter City Rebels kicking off the after party in the Amphitheatre.

Photo by Tim Gruar

Punters were treated to a huge selection of locally made food and drink, all hand-picked by Visa Wellington on a Plate. All dietary requirements were catered for with plenty of vegan and gluten-free food on offer. Craft beers were flowing at the Tuatara bars, with plenty of other locally produced drinks on offer. Those after a drink or bite to each were served quickly and efficiently, thanks to the efficient cashless AWOP system.

CW Stoneking - Photo by Tim Gruar

Ha The Unclear - Photo by Tim Gruar

The Havana Funzone was back this year, providing a safe and welcoming space for the wee ones. There were circus performances, juggling workshops, bouncy castles and face painting. Tinytown, arguably the world’s tiniest stage was back this year, with over 16 performers from all over the world squeezing in to perform for a few lucky audience members.

Photo by Tim Gruar

Punters were all smiles, whether they were dancing up the front, lying on the grass or strolling through the festival grounds. Once again Coastella brought premiere music and culture to the stunning Kapiti Coast, allowing Wellingtonians to escape the city for the day and treating locals to the cream of local and international music.

Bullhorn - Photo by Tim Gruar

Publishing News: NZ Booklovers Awards 2019 Shortlist Announced

A mixture of well-known writers and new authors feature in the inaugural NZ Booklovers Awards shortlist announced today.                

The latest works by Fiona Kidman, Nicky Pellegrino, Jo Seagar, Wendyl Nissen, David Hill and Fleur Beale are among the diverse range of books nominated for the NZ Booklovers Awards, along with exciting new authors.                

Six books are shortlisted in each of the three award categories: adult fiction, lifestyle books and children’s books.                

NZ Booklovers Director Karen McMillan says the inaugural awards received a large number of entries and the standard was extremely high.                

‘The judges were excited to see the variety of books that our talented New Zealand authors have produced.  (We) celebrate the best in storytelling, books that we couldn’t put down.'

The NZ Booklovers Awards 2019 shortlisted titles are: 

NZ Booklovers Award Best Adult Fiction Book 2019 

A Change of Key by Adrienne Jansen (Escalator Press) - ‘A wonderful collection of characters in this book set in a mostly migrant community. The residents are drawn together to support one another, and by weaving the theme of music into the story, there is a real sense of belonging and community in this little snapshot of a not-so-familiar NZ. Adrienne Jansen makes you care about the characters in this book.’ (Judge's comments)

Crystal Reign by Kelly Lyndon (Remnant Press) - ‘Crystal Reign is an eye-opening story about the dreadful effects of P on an ordinary family, written from the point of view of a man trying to hold his family and marriage together. The writing style is engaging and direct – exploring the raw emotions of what he is going through, as well as the toll it takes on those around him.’ (Judge's Comments)

Fishing for Māui by Isa Pearl Ritchie (Te Rā Aroha Press) - ‘Fishing for Māui is a portrait of a family moving through crisis. We are introduced to a large cast of characters in this book, and the author cleverly tells their stories through their own eyes, from very young, to very old. It cleverly interweaves Māori legends and a real sense of New Zealand and connection to the past and present. Drugs, mental health, families and cultures are never easy topics, but Isa Pearl Ritchie tackles them all.’ (Judge's comments)

Grandzilla by Lisa Williams (Crummer Road Press) - Grandzilla educates as well as entertains. Great characters and an enlightening read.’ (Judge's comments)

This Mortal Boy by Fiona Kidman (Penguin Random House) - ‘This Mortal Boy is a beautifully drawn novel that brings a true story to life. It is the little touches that make this brilliant, the small observations of everyday events. We travel back to 1950s New Zealand, a time when a judge could put a man to death. Time is running out for Albert Black.’ (Judge's comments)   

A Year at Hotel Gondola by Nicky Pellegrino (Hachette) - ‘An enjoyable mix of Venice, romance and plenty of cooking recipes. This is a great holiday read, especially for anyone who has visited Venice. Apart from the love story and the mouth-watering food, it also addresses the current issues facing the residents of Venice with the overcrowding from too many tourists.’ Judge's comments)   

NZ Booklovers Award for Best Lifestyle Book 2019 

Better than a Bought One by Jo Seagar (Penguin Random House)

Eco Home by Melinda Williams (Penguin Random House)

Flourish by Juliet Nicholas and Barb Rogers (Penguin Random House)

The Natural Home by Wendyl Nissen (Allen & Unwin)

Ripe Recipes – A Third Helping by Angela Redfern and the Ripe Deli Team (Beatnik)

Wild Delicious by Amber Rose (Penguin Random House)  

NZ Booklovers Award for Best Children’s Book 2019 

Dear Donald Trump by Sophie Spiers, illustrated by Anne Villeneuve (Millwood Press) - ‘Dear Donald Trump deals with incredibly complex and important issues through an innocent sibling drama. It’s a charming story that will spark a conversation with young children about kindness, compassion and peace in this turbulent time.’

Hero of the Sea by David Hill, illustrated by Phoebe Morris (Penguin Random House) - ‘A beautiful biographical picture book that allows a new generation of Kiwi kids to learn about Sir Peter Blake. A stellar tribute to one of New Zealand’s greatest heroes, with great illustrations from Phoebe Morris.’

Kuwi’s Rowdy Crowd by Kat Merewether (Illustrated Publishing)
Lyla by Fleur Beale (Allen & Unwin) - "An absolute delight, with gorgeous illustrations and a wonderful subtle tale about being happy with what you have.  Lyla sensitively and poignantly portrays the experience of a young girl living through the Christchurch earthquake, the courage that she shows at the time and during the aftermath and the effect it has on her and her family and friends.’    

Puffin the Architect by Kimberley Andrews (Penguin Random House) - Puffin the Architect: ‘Witty, with wonderfully detailed illustrations. This is a great read-aloud book.’

Who Stole the Rainbow? by Vasanti Unka (Penguin Random House) - ‘Snappy illustrations and humour make this book about how rainbows are made accessible and fun for a younger audience.’   

Announcements

The winner in each category will be announced on 18 March 2019, and each winner receives $500 from NZ Booklovers.  

The Best Adult Fiction Book Award is judged by writer and literary editor Marcus Hobson, publishing professional Rachel White, and NZ Booklovers Director and author Karen McMillan.  

The Best Lifestyle Book Award is judged by journalist and author Andrea Molloy, NZ Booklovers Director and author Karen McMillan, and publisher, home renovator and foodie Iain McKenzie.  

The Best Children’s Book Award is judged by author and creative writing teacher Paddy Richardson, editor and writer Heidi North, and early childhood kaiako and journalist Rebekah Fraser.  

About NZ Booklovers 

NZ Booklovers is an online home for books and for those who enjoy reading them. It is a bookworms’ hub, dedicated to bringing New Zealanders everything they need to know about reading and the world of literature. Working alongside publishers, NZ Booklovers showcases both New Zealand and international titles. It provides a platform for sharing articles, author interviews, reviews, and book-related stories, as well as book news, competitions, and reading and writing advice.   Director Karen McMillan heads up a talented team of contributors and reviewers, fellow readers and writers who are passionate about books and who believe books inspire and enhance people’s lives. The NZ Booklovers Awards are the brainchild of Karen McMillan, with the aim of supporting the local publishing community and New Zealand authors.  

www.nzbooklovers.co.nz     

WOMAD is Coming!

Get Ready.  Here comes WOMAD 2019!

The lineup has been announced for the WOMAD New Zealand 2019 festival of world music, arts and dance, celebrating their fifteenth anniversary at New Plymouth's TSB Bowl of Brooklands, Pukekura Park this coming March.

The internationally established three day world music, arts and dance festival WOMAD is all about artist discovery and the 2019 festival once again features an array of artists from all corners of the globe. Artists from countries as varied as Benin, Belgium, Ireland, Wales, Mexico and Greece are all invited to Aotearoa next March to share their cultures, identities and heritage and to tell ancient, joyous and powerful tales via a mixture of traditional and modern performances. From upbeat Afropsychedelic party vibes to quiet moments of reflection and meditation featuring cellos, bagpipes and voices, WOMAD is a dizzying cocktail of exhilarating experiences for all.

Once again set in the stunning 55-acre Brooklands Park and the TSB Bowl of Brooklands, amongst the trees and the lake, and under the watch of the mighty mount Taranaki.

The organisers have also announced a special expansion of their War Of Words stage in a revamped Kunming area, with a hefty selection of top tier local wordsmiths set to perform, including Dominic Hoey (Tourettes), Michele A'Court, Nick Bollinger, Michelle A'Court, John Tamahere, and Pip Adam.

WOMAD New Zealand 2019  Friday 15th March to Sunday 17th March - New Plymouth, TSB Bowl of Brooklands, Pukekura Park Featuring:

Angelique Kidjo (Benin), Silkroad Ensemble (Various), Correspondents (UK), Teeks (Aotearoa), Amjad Ali Khan (India), Baloji (DR Congo/ Belguim), BCUC - Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (South Africa), Dona Onete (Brazil), Jamie Smith's Mabon (Wales), La Dame Blanche (Cuba), Las Cafeteras (Mexico), Maalem Hamid El Kasri (Morocco), Maarja Nuut (Estonia), My Baby (Netherlands), Rebetien (Greece), Sharon Shannon Band (Ireland), Taiwu Childrens Ancient Ballads Troupe (Taiwan), Charlotte Johansen (Aotearoa), Finn Andrews (Aotearoa / United Kingdom), Congress of Anmals (Aotearoa), Nadia Reid (Aotearoa), Niko Ne Zna (Aotearoa), Ria Hall (Aotearoa), The Black Seeds (Aotearoa), Kora (Aotearoa) amongst others.

Local artists announced for the War Of Words stage... Dominic 'Tourettes' Hoey, Elizabeth Smither, Marama Mullen, Marcus Thomas and Neil Silverwood, Michael Donaldson, Michele A'Court, Nick Bollinger, Penny Ashton, Pip Adam, Sonya Renee Taylor.

https://www.womad.co.nz