Earlier this month I was lucky enough to catch some really . . .good for your soul music. Now it was not 'soul music' per-say but it was soulful. Two musicians out of New Zealand with different styles but both hitting good vibes that had that ring of honesty to it. I dont know maybe I am biased because I have a fondness for NZ but SWISS and Aaradhna are powerful!.
SWISS opened using the same drummer, guitarist and bass player as Arradhna which was an impressive feat for that trio! They showed incredible musical diversity and had such fun doing it. The drummer won me over. He played with a jazzy style and finesse that I do not see often enough, with those quirky twists of the wrist to hit the cymbals just so at a moment that is at the same time exactly when ti should be and not when you expect it. In front of that is SWISS laying down that pacific islander smooth hip hop that I miss so much. Even though the crowd was small he he had a great time and made use of the intimate setting to connect with everyone in the audience. What I appreciated most is the down to earth lyrics and attitude that really says 'yes this is my life yes i want to share it with you'
Aaradhna had the same realness, talking about her bouts of depression and how music helped pull her out. It is clear she is making music not just to heal herself but in the hopes of helping others as well. And her voice. . . I think the phrase heart-string might have been made to describe the way her echoing melodies pull you in. IF you have not heard of this talented woman keep listening. . .she has been nominated for album of the year, single of the year, female vocalist of the year and peoples choice in the NZ music awards. I wish I could tell you to catch her next show but she is already back home. So join her FB and if you are lucky she will come back to the USA before her shows are selling out weeks in advance. Seriously go listen to her right now, and just get lost in the retro smooth beats and melody of her voice.
