Young musical talent shines

Local young musicians of various genres figured prominently in the Northland regional final of Smokefreerockquest in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Forum North, Whangarei recently.

While overall winners were A08 from Kamo High, punk-hardcore two piece band Weevils from Rodney College placed second, with Asher Pirini on guitar and vocals and Jade Zaia on drums. Normally they would fall into the duo category but having a drummer classifies them as a band.

Both bands won musical gear from associate sponsor NZ Rockshop and their suppliers.

They must now submit 15 minutes of their best material for selection as national finalists. This also applies to Huia Shortland from Te Kapehu Whetu Teina and Mollie Harvey from Rodney College who placed first and second in the Northland solo-duo section announced at the regional heats in May.

Director Pete Rainey said from here on the Northland finalists would have to be well organised and work hard to make the most of the opportunity Smokefreerockquest offered.

“They have to submit video footage of their original music that will be judged in August as we lead up to the national final in September,” he said. “This process not only demands musical ability and creativity, they also learn to work together as a group and to develop the organisational and promotional skills they’ll need if they're going to make it on the Kiwi music scene.”

Musical successes from Smokefreerockquest over its 28-year history including Broods, Aaradhna, Opshop, Ladyhawke, Marlon Williams, Brooke Fraser, Anika Moa, Kora, Devilskin, The Black Seeds, Bic Runga, and many others.

LOUD: Rodney College band Weevils rocks in the final.