Sola Rosa is one of Kiwi music’s most evolutionary and enduring acts.
It’s been a near 20-year labour of love for the man behind the music, Andrew Spraggon. And this year, a new chapter begins for Sola Rosa with the release of the EP, IN SPACES.
We asked Sola Rosa what his Top Five Fave Artists are right now.
1. Jordan Rakei
Ok Jordan has been doing his thing for a while and in fact we did a track together for our 2014 release Magnetics. Since then I’ve been watching him bloom as an artist. He really is an incredible writer. I was a late listener to Wallflower but that album easily takes best album of 2017 for me.
2. Tom Misch
One of those uber talented kids that plays every instrument, produces and sings, almost annoying how talented this guy is. Incredible guitar player. I’m not a fan of everything he does but he has made some killer tunes. Some of his early reworks of old hiphop jams featuring Busta Rhymes and Tribe Called Quest are banging! Plus his production is so hot, I have no idea how a guy in his 20’s gets this good, this fast.
3. Khruangbin
These guys are a new discovery for me. i heard the Con Todo El Mundo track and was sold! I love instrumental music. Back in the day I was a massive fan of bands like Friends Of Dean Martinez and Calexico. Khruangbin have a similar vibe but more of a middle eastern flavour. Totally unique and refreshing. The video for this song is one of my fav’s of late too, just perfect for the song.
4. Noah Slee
I’ve made a few tracks with Noah. He’s one of those singers that’s just great to work with in the studio, writes fast, super creative and open to any ideas. I’ve been following his journey as a Kiwi artist living in Berlin and doing big things. He released his debut album Otherland last year which is up for numerous awards here at home at the VNZMA’s. One to watch for sure. Heres a video from the excellent COLORS series with Noah on a Tall Black Guy remix, another favourite artist of mine.
5. Remi
First I heard of Remi was For Good ft. Sampha The Great and what a tune!! Since then I’ve been following his new releases and just love his flow and general vibe. My kind of hip hop artist.
Sola Rosa remains one of New Zealand’s most travelled and internationally successful touring and festival acts, with Spraggon dividing his time between his hometown of Auckland and cities such and London where he’s built up a loyal following. Recent shows include Secret Garden Party, Greenman Festival, Kendal Calling and Nozstock Festival.
Check out Sola Rosa’s new single here: