Opensouls

Opensouls have steadily risen through the ranks of the New Zealand music scene since beginning their combined musical journey in 2001. Comprised of 2 vocalists, M.C. Bjorn Petersen and singer Tyra Hammond, and a live band including Jeremy Toy a.k.a. Ota (guitar/MPC), Julien Dyne (drums), Chip Mathews (bass), Steph Brown (keys), Scott Towers (saxophone), Isaac Aesili (trumpet/vocals) and Harlin Davey a.k.a. DJ Buttafingers (turntables), the collective possesses an abundance of musical flair and experience which they have used to great effect on their critically acclaimed debut album Kaleidoscope. Add to this a string of sold out 12” and 7” vinyl releases and an inspired live show, and it’s clear to see why Opensouls are now widely regarded one of Aotearoa’s premier groups.

Hip hop is undoubtedly the backbone of Opensouls’ sound, but their music isn’t all strictly beats and rhymes. The group have drawn flourishes of inspiration from a wide range of genres including funk, reggae, jazz and blues, all of which have played an integral role in creating the full and vibrant sound on which they have staked their growing reputation.