Gloss intern Jessamy checks out some cool new Kiwi music, from hip hop favourites Nesian Mystik and newcomers The Earlybirds, and gives us her verdict on their new releases.

The Early Birds
The Earlybirds, said by many to be the hottest up and coming NZ band, has just released their debut album, "Favourite Fears".  Five local boys from Devonport formed the band formed in 2005 and after spending the summer touring with bands such as OpShop, Midnight Youth, The Checks and Pluto, they are now the name on the tongues of many. The Earlybirds are in good hands, being managed by James Southgate, the man responsible for the success of The Feelers and Anika Moa.

If you have listened to the radio lately, you would have more than likely heard the first two singles off the album; “Runaway” and “I Killed the DJ”. They are both upbeat, feel good indie rock tracks. The strong vocals of lead singer Filip Kostovich are unique, which fits in with the overall ‘indie’ vibe of the band. (Drummer Sean Patterson keeps incense burning from his drum kit when playing live shows.) The unique sound of the band may however not be for everyone. But if you are up for an upbeat album with a few softer tracks, “Favourite Fears” is definitely one to keep an eye on. The first time I listened to the band I was immediately hooked and I’m already excited to upload the tracks to my running playlist! 

Gloss rating: 4/5

Nesian Mystik
I have to admit that I was apprehensive when first listening to Nesian Mystik’s new album “99 A.D” because along with a lot of New Zealanders, when I think of Nesian Mystik, their first album Polysaturated is what immediately comes to mind. I was pleasantly surprised to find such variety on their fourth album. The first single to be released, “Sun Goes Down”, automatically brings the wonderful thought of summer to mind. It’s sure to become a summer anthem for many. The album also features tracks such as “No. 1” which is a softer track that will be a goodie to listen to on those rainy summer days.

For their fourth and final album, Nesian Mystik have teamed up with fellow New Zealand artists such as Scribe to create the track “Fresh Boys”. This is a track that will keep the true New Zealand hip hop fans happy. For a fourth album in the New Zealand music market, the boys of Nesian Mystik have definitely proved they have that special something. They have kept to their original sound that featured in their previous albums and “99 A.D” reminds us that Nesian Mystik are true New Zealand hip hop icons.
Gloss rating: 4/5

By Jessamy Benge

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