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The lineup
They Rock! Why? Not only are they going to play some awesome music, all artists are generously donating their time to this event - thanks guys!
Line up text
Recliner Rockers   Swamp Thing
The Recliner Rockers Swamp Thing
Swampland His Masters Voice
Swampland His Master's Voice
Al Lavis Night Gaunts
Al Lavis Night Gaunts
TBC Brutally Frank
The Hand Brutally Frank
Bernie Griffen Harvey Knows a Killer
Bernie Griffen Harvey Knows a Killer
Man Solo CoReZ
Man Solo CoReZ (DJ set)
Leigh Hart Lane Twigden
Leigh Hart as MC!   Lane Twigden

Brutally Frank at CaNZert 2014

Brutally Frank

With an eclectic style that blends traditional rock with a modern alternative attitude, Brutally Frank offers an energetic and passionate show!

Jeremy Frank delivers the message with intensity and showmanship, backed by a wall of distorted guitar melodies compliments of Mike Rakich and Phil Woollams. Scotty Morgan (on drums) and Stu Mack (on bass guitar) play the hell out of their instruments and provide the pounding rhythm that is the essential trademark of this outstanding rock band.

Brutally Frank...... the band’s name reflects the attitude of the song writing, with content that is generally based on true life experience and definitely pulling no punches! Brutally Frank were extremely prolific on the live NZ scene from 2004 to 2010, culminating in a national tour and the release of their debut album "The Finer Details" to critical acclaim, garnering several favourable reviews in the NZ Music press including five stars in Rip It Up. Singles "Unceasing" and "Hope is an Opiate" were backed by NZ On Air with video production for Unceasing and considerable radio play for both singles.

The band has left no stone unturned on the North Island circuit, having played at just about every available venue, with bands such as Head Like a Hole, Tadpole, Autozamm, The Tea Party (Canada) , Fur Patrol, Stylus and Revolver.

After a three year hiatus, the band has reformed (with original bass player Stuart McKechnie returning to the fold replacing Aaron Corbett) and Brutally Frank are looking to record a fresh single with a follow up second album. Recent live shows include their incredible performance supporting Devilskin on their recent tour.

Brutally FrankBrutally FrankBrutally FrankBrutally Frank

http://www.amplifier.co.nz/artist/2255/brutally-frank.html


The Hand at CaNZert 2014

Corey Friedman

DJ set by one of the top metal drummers in New Zealand...

CoReZ (aka Corey Friedlander) is recognised for his endorsements playing Tama Drums and Paiste Cymbals and plays in various bands such as Auckland’s Heavy weights, Fornax Chemica, 8 Foot Sativa, The Mark Of Man and known for his work with Final Eve, In Dread Response, Legion and Emenda.

He began drumming at age 10 and has also been teaching drumming for the last 5 years – with a true passion for helping others achieve their goals in furthering their drumming skills.

While retaining a busy life with his other projects, CoReZ will bring us his awesome DJ sets mid main stage bands in the night session....

Follow The Hand on Facebook CoReZ

The Hand at CaNZert 2014

Bernie Griffen

Melodic and memorable songs, soulful tales of the meanderings of a life well and truly lived on the fringes.....

Bernie Griffen is the host of radio 95bFM’s Americana show ‘Border Radio’, and co-founder and a driving force behind the country-punk roadshow-extravaganza 'The Gunslinger's Ball'.

He has received acclaim as the front man for the Auckland folk-blues-country band The Grifters. Bernie Griffin and the Grifters' album "Everything So Far" has been hailed as New Zealand's best- ever folk album, and Griffen's performance as using every inch of a voice reminiscent of Johnny Cash and Tom Waits. Bernie is also a powerful and compelling solo performer.

Bernie Griffen

http://www.amplifier.co.nz/artist/71230/bernie-griffen-the-grifters.html
http://www.undertheradar.co.nz/news/5953/Album-Review-Bernie-Griffen-and-The-Grifters---Everything-So-Far.utr
http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/music/album-reviews/7899361/CD-Review-Everything-so-far-Bernie-Griffen-The-Grifters


The Hand at CaNZert 2014

The HandThe HandThe HandThe HandThe Hand

This dynamic fusion of awesome musos is a must-see!

After co-writing The Feelers hit single “Communicate”, Donald Reid (Vocals, Guitar and Songwriter) was nominated for 'Best Songwriter of the Year'.   Donald also co-wrote several singles for two Feelers albums including “The Web” and “Fallout Shelter”. With the production assistance from his brother James Reid, the two brothers then set about recording “In A Taxi Home” in various studios but notably Abbey Road in London. When Donald Reid’s debut solo album launched the critical response was overwhelmingly complimentary.  It was apparent the singer-songwriter had come up with some of the most assured and addictive songs New Zealand had heard for some time.  Little wonder that respected music critic Graham Reid immediately likened him to Neil Finn, Greg Johnson and Dave Dobbyn.

Having played shows with Martha Wainwright, Simple Minds, Kris Kristofferson, Carole King and Eskimo Joe, Donald joined up with old friends and battle-hardened musicians, to form The Hand.
  
About The Band
 Greg Hart (Lead Guitar) and Matt “Lazy Snare” Johnson (Drums) were part of well-known ’90's Christchurch band “Wild Turkey”. Wild Turkey toured Europe in ’93/’94 on the back of their EP "Payback Time". They received rave reviews during the Edinburgh Festival. They played gigs alongside "The Proclaimers" and also played a set at the famous “T-In The Park” festival in Glasgow. Whilst playing in the French Alps the band hooked up with Jimmy Barnes and played an epic gig at the famous Meribel ski resort.

On their return to New Zealand, they became part of the house band and spent 4 years on the well-known TV show “Sports Cafe”. Gef Fitzpatrick has toured and played bass throughout NZ including being part of support acts for the recent Simple Minds tour and with Voodoo Kreepers at ex Stray Cats, Slim Jim Phantom’s Auckland show, and is well respected throughout the NZ Blues and Rockabilly scene.

Follow The Hand on Facebook The Hand The HandThe HandThe Hand

http://www.reverbnation.com/thehandnz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yz3-v37NpRA
http://www.donaldreid.co.nz


Leigh Hart at CaNZert 2014

Leigh Hart

Leigh Hart...that guy

Irreverent entertainer Leigh Hart is from West Coast coal mining stock. The family accompanied his father, a tunneler, around the world. They lived for 5 years in a remote valley in the Andes.  Leigh briefly followed in his father's footsteps working under the sea on the Channel Tunnel. His rock band toured Europe before getting jailed for 11 days and deported from France for visa technicalities.

As his alter ego 'That Guy' Leigh was a long term member of the SportsCafe team. His own comedy shows include six series of Moon TV and Leigh Hart's Mysterious Planet. Leigh has now applied his fun Kiwi joker persona to his beer brand – Wakachangi - that's taking on the corporate giants at their own game. The lager is, according to the tagline, "a South Otago beer, with North Canterbury flavours, brewed by a West Coaster, with the ol' misty waters of the Waikato - est circa 1648".

"There's hardly a true word on the label" says Leigh.

We are so pleased that Leigh is donating his time despite his busy schedule to bring his unique style of comedy and quick wit to the CaNZert event!

Follow Leigh Hart on Facebook

Leigh Hart

Leigh Hart at CaNZert 2014

Harvey Knows a Killer

Southern Fried Voodoo Funk!

You would be hard pressed to believe that this band did not live through the 60's or 70's. Harvey Knows a Killer have recreated a sound that is reminiscent of the psychedelic era and dipped it in the melting pot of genres that is Aotearoa music, to produce their own style they call Southern Fried Voodoo Funk. Influences include The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Little Bushman and heavy doses of Jimi Hendrix.

In addition to their shows in the Auckland Gig scene, Harvey Knows a Killer recently opened for nationally respected alternative rock act The Adults. In March they played AUT's city and north-shore orientations and in June 2010 they won the Waikato Ultimate Band Competition.

Harvey Knows A Killer takes one home grown rhythm machine, grooves and layers it over a smokey organ and the soul funk pipes of a preacher, they then serve it red hot with a pair of southern fried guitars and their own honey mellowed harmonies.

"The month was truly topped off by a sensational (I mean it - these guys rock!) young blues band called Harvey Knows a Killer. They are playing a few professional gigs around Auckland soon and are 100% worth it!" — Luke Hurley, White Ribbon Day in Auckland.

Harvey Know a Killer are Dillon (lead vocals and keys), Windon (guitar), Rewi (vocals and guitar), Joss (vocals and bass) and Jim (vocals and percussion).

Follow Harvey Knows a Killer on Facebook



Harvey Knows a Killer

http://www.harveyknowsakiller.com/
http://www.reverbnation.com/harveyknowsakiller


His Master's Voice at CaNZert 2014

His Master's Voice

We sold our souls for Rock 'n' Roll to bring you the Devil's Blues...

Steeped in groove with a passionate, classic feel..... Listen closely and follow the sound of His Master's Voice......

The love child of metal and dirty blues, this new yet imposing four piece band from Auckland combines members of long established metal bands with an incredible blues vocal. The resulting sound is 'tight, dirty and makes you want to move' (13th Floor) - blues as heavy and passionate as it gets, delivered by supremely talented musicians.

With an already established fan base, and an incredibly impressive demo CD, this is a band that will go far. His Master's Voice are: Brandön Bött, Az Burns, Judas Jinx, Jesse Sorensen.

Devil’s blues..... let possession take control......

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook

His Master's Voice

https://soundcloud.com/brando28
http://13thfloor.co.nz/2013/08/17/his-masters-voice-at-back-beat/


Al Levis at CaNZert 2014

         Al Lavis

Smooth bluesy vocals and blistering guitar

Ex Sly Groovers veteran of stage and studio both here in NZ and the U.S. Al Lavis is well known for his smooth bluesy vocals and blistering guitar solos that’ll leave you gasping.

Most well known by many as the vocalist and guitarist of The Recliner Rockers, Al will also be treating us to his awesome solo set at CaNZert.

See you there, in the beer garden!
Al Lavis


Julian Davis at CaNZert 2014

Julian Davis

Cool, cruisy, folky rock with echoes of Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Warren Zevon.....

"I began playing drums in bands when I was eighteen, I just knew that making noise was all I wanted to do. Playing in many bands and travelling to many fantastic countries gave me enormous pleasure. Writing songs, playing the music and singing, meant that I could give you what I want to give you, not just what you, or anybody else thinks, you want. It ought to be what we all do, giving what we know we want to give, governed by what we really believe not just by what we think someone wants. No more guessing. No more hiding.

"Bob Dylan said that those who ain’t busy being born are busy dying. These words are the simplest and most apt gospel for life. I don’t want to be wasting time on someone else’s idea of a good time, waiting for someone or something to change. Life is too special, and too short, to waste any of it dying. Do new stuff all the time! I’m Gone to the next thing. Everyday’s a good day." Man Solo (Julian Davis)

All songs on his highly rated debut solo album 'Gone', which was recorded at Tonewheel Studio in Auckland, were originals. The album has been well received and Julian has recently returned from Eastern Europe where he launched his solo shows, and we're lucky enough to have him play for us at the Kings Arms. Make sure you don't miss it!

Man Solo

http://www.reverbnation.com/juliandavis


Night Gaunts at CaNZert 2014

   Night Gaunts   Night Gaunts   Night Gaunts

High energy, sing-a-long ska, reggae, punky, hip-hop that will embed itself into your brain from the moment they hit your ears.

Night Gaunts are: Paul on vocals and guitar, Hayden on Bass, Daniel on Keys, Guitar, and Vocals, Jacob on Sax and Vocals, and Simon on the drums. They put on an insanely cool live show have received acclaim and praise from fans and critics both here in New Zealand and overseas.

Their music is a combination of ska, hip-hop, punky, reggae (has been described as a cross between the Beastie Boys and Sublime). Night Gaunts give off so much positive energy a live show is a totally awesome experience. If you haven’t seen them before, you are in for a real treat!

Albums and more info can be found online too, check out the links below!

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook Night Gaunts - Full body tourettes Night Gaunts - Full body tourettes Night Gaunts Night Gaunts Nightgaunts

http://nightgaunts.bandcamp.com/
http://blogs.houstonpress.com/rocks/2013/09/night_gaunts_part_2.php 
http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/north-harbour-news/9130075/Band-home-after-US-road-trip


The Recliner Rockers at CaNZert 2014

Recliner Rockers

Blues-Rockabilly-Roots-Rock like you've never seen before!

The Recliner Rockers put on a colourful, energetic show that just comes naturally with seriously dynamic guitar playing, crazy spinning double bass acrobatics and balancing act, along with flamboyant drumming. Check out The Recliner Rockers’ dynamic performance and off-the-wall stage antics -  their flair for showmanship truly matches their musical prowess.

The band's history began in 2005. Back in 2006, at the Whangamata Beach Hop, the venue they played was filled to capacity and people were being turned away from the door. This must-see band has been invited back to Beach Hop every year since.

Firm favourites not only at the Beach Hop, but also on the national Hot Rod and festival circuits. Come along to the Kings Arms and find out why! The Recliner Rockers are: Al Lavis – guitar and vocals, Gef Fitzpatrick – electric and upright bass, Julian Davis – drums.

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook The Recliner Rockers

Swamp Thing at CaNZert 2014

Swampland

Bluesy rock 'n' roll from the deep, dark swamp...

Swampland is a four-piece band based in Auckland that consists of musicians from Bernie Griffen and The Grifters, Labretta Suede, and All Torn Up.  Though only founded by charismatic frontman Tony Daunt in 2012, with the conscription of Thomas Landon-Lane, and then Jamie Vodanovich and Chris Kemp (formally the rhythm section of Labretta Suede), the music of Swampland is an expression of Tony’s material accumulated over his entire lifetime.

“The music doesn’t just tell the story; it invites the listener to stand alongside us in the mud.”

The band may or may not draw influences from the likes of the Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, the Cramps, Eddie Cochran, the Birthday Party, in different proportions, but certainly it has its own brand of swampy rock n roll.

Swampland is raring to go! The band has already played a 95bFM Roundhead session, played for Very Vintage TV events and is booked for much more in 2014. Come check them out at CaNZert....

Swampland is: Tony Daunt - Vocals and Guitar; Thomas Landon-Lane - Guitar; Jamie Vodanovich - Bass; Chris Kemp – Drums.

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook Swampland

http://www.95bfm.co.nz/assets/sm/213081/3/SwampLandInSessionliveatRoundheadStudios.mp3


Swamp Thing at CaNZert 2014

Swamp Thing

A Two Man Blues Roots Juggernaut - Swamp Thing is very much their own monster.

"They're the two left in the juke joint when the hurricane's about to make landfall, when the revelers have gone home, sweat-soaked and exhausted. The bulbs are blown out, the floor's full of glass, but two men are honor bound to keep playing, pouring their sweat into the parched earth like libation. In the best traditions of two man blues and roots, Swamp Thing is a duo that you know are playing to stay alive."

Blues, rockabilly, bluegrass, and rock vibe - Michael Barker & Grant Haua are Swamp Thing. A former long time member of The John Butler Trio and the touring drummer with Kiwi legends Split Enz, Michael Barker (drums, percussion, keyBass, vocals) formed the two man blues/roots duo Swamp Thing with Grant Haua (vocals/guitar) a greatly respected singer/songwriter and guitarist from Tauranga in 2010.

These two unique musicians come together bringing a wealth of experience, passion and love for their craft to make blues flavoured music with a deep groove and soulful spook. Their first studio album, Balladeer, was recorded at Roundhead studios in May 2011 and their second album, Primordium, was recorded at Barker's studio Twisty Pole in 2012. Primordium was released in January 2013.

In 2012/13 Swamp Thing played several Australian summer festivals – WOMADelaide, Woodford Folk Festival, Blues at Bridgetown and Nannup, with heaps more in store for 2014 - including our very own CaNZert!

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook Swamp Thing

http://www.muzic.net.nz/artists/3353/swamp-thing
http://13thfloor.co.nz/reviews/concert-reviews/swamp-thing-titirangi-music-festival-october-18-2013/
http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/music/album-reviews/9103369/Album-review-Primordium-Swamp-Thing


Lane Twigden

Drawing influences from folk, alternative rock, and Motown, mixed with a healthy dose of pop.

Lane Twigden is a 21 year old musician from  Auckland. His music draws influences from folk, alternative rock, and Motown, mixed with a healthy dose of pop. He began writing music 5 years ago, and started performing two years ago.  We saw Lane play recently at the Wine Cellar and knew he would be a perfect fit for CaNZert. Between sessions Lane will be performing his solo set.

Follow Night Gaunts on Facebook Lane Twigden

CaNZert2014

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