OurStage Model UN – New Zealand

While the goofy guys in Flight of the Conchords are enjoying immense popularity stateside, not all New Zealander bands are lucky enough to have their own HBO comedy series as a platform. In fact, very few New Zealand acts are well known outside Oceanica. Today we’re hoping to change that by taking a peak at the New Zealander offerings on OurStage. So take a break from looking for that stupid ring with a pack of hobbits and get your groove on to these kiwis.

While some might cringe at using an obvious Bowie reference as a stage name, Lawrence Arabia does the moniker justice. With abounding psychedelic, folk and power pop influences, this Christ church-based crooner presents himself as a strong contender to win over fans of Jens Lekman and Pulp.

Lawrence Arabia

If you dig aggressive-sounding vocals and mind-blowing musicianship in your ska music, then you will probably fall head-over-heels in love with King Cannons. Rising from the ashes of various bands from the Auckland punk scene, King Cannons have made quite a splash working DIY-style. After all, not every unsigned band can claim they’ve played Australia’s Big Day Out festival in addition to sharing stages with the likes of Bouncing Souls and The Anti-Nowhere League.

What do you get when you combine R&B, blues, reggae & Polynesian music together? You get what the duo known as Cydel calls “Polyessence.” Childhood friends Pele and Dee bonded over their love of making music. Their passion for making unique soulful harmonies led them to winning the 2008 Pacific Urban Artist Award.

For those who yearn for some no nonsense rock and roll, Mile High fits the bill. Their track “Now” is rife with shout-a-long choruses and hand claps galore. Citing a variety of influences from Queens of the Stone Age to Interpol, Mile High’s ready-for-radio sound is sure to find a happy set of listeners stateside. The band is currently gearing up to release a debut EP in December.