New Music 17/10

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Jack Bromwich — Poser, Freak (EP)

Tāmaki Makaurau-based alt-rock artist Jack Bromwich has released his debut EP Poser, Freak — a raw and introspective exploration of youth, self-image, and the transition into adulthood. Known for blending emotive lyricism with melodic yet occasionally abrasive guitar layers, Bromwich delivers an honest and evolving sound that feels both deeply personal and sonically bold.

Following the success of his singles Dust and Never Dreamed, which gained traction on student radio, Poser, Freak showcases Bromwich’s DIY ethos and creative versatility. Recorded across multiple studios — and largely in his own living room — the EP captures the spirit of independence and collaboration, shaped with the help of close friends and fellow musicians. Each track offers a different shade of his alt-rock palette, swaying from soft introspection to raw intensity.

With Poser, Freak, Jack Bromwich cements his place as a distinctive new voice in Aotearoa’s alt-rock scene.

Coppelia — SKITZO

Tāmaki Makaurau-based Coppelia are back with their fiery new single “SKITZO”, out this Friday. The track is a raw burst of indie rock energy, diving into themes of paranoia and the chaos of losing control — channelled through heavy riffs, driving drums, and a chorus made to be screamed back at them.

Hailing from across the North Island, the five-piece first formed during uni jam sessions that quickly snowballed into house party gigs and, soon after, performances at Auckland’s iconic Double Whammy. Now based on Karangahape Rd — the heart of Aotearoa’s creative scene — Coppelia have carved out their sound blending reggae-rock, indie, and jazz influences, delivering big hooks, smooth rhythms, and an explosive live show complete with wailing sax and contagious energy.

“SKITZO” marks another bold step for the band as they continue to make their mark in Aotearoa’s live music scene.

Coast Arcade — Coast Arcade (ALBUM)

Coast Arcade’s self-titled debut album captures the rush of growing up in chaos; a mix of grunge-pop and indie-rock anthems that balance nostalgia with raw, youthful energy. Featuring explosive singles City Limits, Acetone, Kids, and Cycles, the record dives into burnout, connection, and rebellion, cementing the Tāmaki Makaurau band as one of Aotearoa’s most exciting new guitar acts.

Since forming in 2021, Coast Arcade have made serious waves, sharing stages with acts like The Beths, Princess Chelsea, Teenage Dads, and The Terrys, while lighting up major festivals including Spring City and Rhythm & Vines. Known for their high-energy performances and infectious hooks, their debut album solidifies their place as a standout voice in New Zealand’s indie scene — vibrant, authentic, and made for fans of feel-good indie rock and indie pop.

arielwose — gullible

Inspired by Fiona Apple, No Doubt, Stevie Nicks, and Aotearoa icons Bic Runga and Anika Moa, Wellington-based arielwose blends the raw power of 2000s female singer-songwriters with her own fresh, modern perspective. Writing straight from lived experience, she crafts songs that are deeply honest, emotional, and unflinchingly real. Breakout track 7 Day Clinic explored life with anxiety, while follow-up single In Their Eyes became an anthem of self-acceptance. With child, Ariel embraced a rawer, more rock-driven sound fueled by unfiltered female rage and emotional honesty.

Her new single gullible continues that evolution, balancing her acoustic singer-songwriter roots with a sharper, punchy edge. Honest, vulnerable, and striking, the track demonstrates her ability to mix softness with power. On stage, Ariel’s intensity translates to unforgettable live shows, from her debut on the Auckland Pride main stage in 2023 to gigs across Karangahape Road and opening for acts including Park RD, MACEY, and Isla Noon. She is currently finishing her debut EP, due at the end of the year, bringing together everything she’s explored so far while pushing into bolder, more assertive territory.

Lottie — Not right now

After headline shows in Melbourne and Palmerston North, Lottie returns with her sixth single of the year, Not right now; a smooth, vulnerable pop track that captures the ache of wanting someone but knowing the timing isn’t right. Blending her emotive vocals with Dan Martin’s production, the song feels like a late-night confession — honest, raw, and beautifully restrained.

Written from a place of quiet acceptance, Not right now explores the space between holding on and letting go, where love isn’t lost, just mistimed.

A rising force in Aotearoa’s pop scene, Lottie continues to prove her staying power with hits like Gimme, Last to Admit, and Covered in Stone. Fresh off opening for PRINS at The Tuning Fork and earning radio play across NZ and Australia, she’s carving her place as one of the country’s most exciting emerging artists.

The Boondocks — Don't Let Them See You Cry (ALBUM)

Āwhitu Peninsula’s high-energy duo The Boondocks unleash their debut album, Don’t Let Them See You Cry, a fuzz-fuelled, riff-heavy statement from one of Aotearoa’s most exciting new rock acts. Formed in 2022 by Scott Parker (vocals/bass) and Branden Pritchard (drums), the pair have quickly gained a reputation for electrifying live shows and a relentless work ethic, proving just how much two people can achieve with a bass and a drum kit. Produced by Scott Seabright, the album delivers gritty, modern Kiwi rock with fuzzed-out riffs, pounding drums, and hooks that demand attention.

Featuring standout singles Bombs, Bear With Me, Sticks and Stones, and the explosive Hell of a Time, the album balances raw energy with moments of introspection. Tracks like Minnie Dean delve into darker histories and personal trauma, showing the duo’s ability to tackle weighty themes while still crafting party-ready rock anthems. From thunderous riffs to catchy hooks, the record captures the duo’s signature sound - big, bold, and unapologetically Kiwi.

Dead Cherry — Mother

Wellington-based four-piece Dead Cherry, fronted by the electric Jodie Gummer, are making waves with their raw, groove-driven rock sound. Known for high-energy live shows and years of raucous cover gigs, the band has now stepped confidently into original material. Their debut single Quirk has already racked up around 200,000 streams and views, showcasing their blend of hard-hitting guitars, driving rhythms, and catchy melodies.

Their new single Mother, released ahead of their debut EP of the same name (21 November 2025), is a raw, emotionally charged anthem that confronts the silent weight many women carry. Written from the perspective of a woman stretched thin by the pressures of everyday life, the track pulses with tight rhythms, killer bass riffs, and emotionally charged vocals. “This song is for the women doing it all,” says Gummer. Mother cements Dead Cherry as one of Aotearoa’s most compelling new rock voices, delivering unapologetic, stage-ready rock ‘n’ roll that wrestles with chaos, control, and the fire of modern womanhood.