Solaa

Solaa are an independent band that formed in the spirit of jazz improvisation during 1997 through a love for contemporary urban music and a strong friendship that grew across socio-economic and cultural divides. The sound that developed was a unique New Zealand fusion of electronic and organic music. Rich in instrumentation, the music of Solaa bridges Hip Hop, Breaks, Funk, Soul, R&B, and Latin Flavours.

Solaa incorporate a rare diversity of musician-ship that stems from each members eclectic backgrounds in music. Their combined experi-ence in Big band, Latin and Classical music have enabled the group to draw the most out of their diverse styles, creating music that is lush in melody, harmony and rhythm. This rich fusion of musical styles is evident in their debut album ‘Steps in Time’.

In March 2006 Solaa made their first tour to Australia including a performance in support of Fat Freddy’s Drop to a 1500 strong, sold out crowd, at Melbourne’s Forum theatre. They’ve also performed alongside popular New Zealand acts such as Mark de Clive-Lowe, Dave Dobbyn, Salmonella Dub, Che Fu, Shapeshifter, Verse2 and Opensouls. Besides touring throughout New Zealand independently, Solaa have performed at prominent events such as: The Lord Of The Rings Wrap Party, The World of Wearable Arts Awards and TV2’s National Anthem Event.

Solaa’s music has been played extensively across New Zealand’s bNet and alternative radio networks. ‘Sylphlike’ feat. Ladi6 was number one on alternative radio during early 2006 (Radioscope, March 26). Late 2005 saw Solaa receive international radio play too. UK DJ Benji B featured ‘Sylphlike’ on his show ‘Soulful Devia-tion’ (BBC 1Xtra). New York DJ Monkone played ‘Aintnothing’ on his ‘Underground Railroad’ show (WBAI, Brooklyn). Solaa have featured consis-tently on various Loop Recordings compilations. Most recently they appeared on ‘The Green Room 005: ‘Whanau’ (2006), The Green Room 004’ (2005) and Loop Select 006: ‘Kono’ (2004). ‘Eyes Shut’ was favourably noted when Radio New Zealand’s Liz Barry reviewed ‘Whanau’ on Good Morning (TV1, May 3rd, 2006).

Solaa’s Steps in Time 12” Album sampler was released in December 2005 and has since sold out. New Zealand distribution has been signed to Rhythmethod with the album set for New Zealand release on July 3rd. Solaa released the single ‘Chance’ feat. USOuljah and Hollie Smith as both a music video and radio edit in June 2006. The radio single was included on New Zealand on Air’s Kiwi hit disc #83, going out to radio stations nationwide. The video was produced by renowned production house Fish n Clips and directed by James Barr (Savage, Aaradhna, Grinspoon). He is also co-directing Solaa’s second music video to be released in August 2006. Steps in Time is also set for European and Australian release later this year with a 12” including a Recloose remix. The New Zealand album release tour will hit Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington in September.