Bands share stage in mashup of styles

Soul-based folk-to-funk band Sidewalk Empire share the stage with Direct Descendants and The Eternal Sea in a mashup of musical genres. Photo/supplied

A show case performance from three local bands is taking the Totara stage next weekend.

Aotearoa reggae band Direct Descendants, folk-to-funk soul group Sidewalk Empire, and heavy rockers The Eternal Sea are mashing up at Totara St, and it's a show not to be missed, says AscendancyArtist manager Nicole Fenson.

"The mashup is about offering a different experience to what is normally on offer with gigs and events, where you only hear one genre of music. We are aiming this event at people who want to hear outstanding original local music and who enjoy a range of music," she says.

The musicians in the bands are largely all friends through being involved in the professional musician scene in the city.

The idea of a mashup came from discussions between different local musicians who are very respectful and supportive of each other's original music, both songwriting and musicianship, and wanted to create an event that really showcased the talent we have locally, she says.

"What the bands do have in common is really very high-quality performances and great melodic content. Also, these bands have been through changes and are re-emerging into the performance scene after a hiatus, under new management and with renewed vigour."

Four-piece Direct Descendants play sweet original Aotearoa reggae. They started writing and performing under the name 6TB (six to the band) about five years ago. "With new members, a new name, new direction and management, they are excited to bring their flavour of reggae to New Zealand and the world," says Nicole.

Sidewalk Empire is a six-piece group, heavy on rhythm, producing soul-based music ranging from folk to funk sounds, tied together with a solid groove. The Eternal Sea is a three piece melodic heavy rock band and the brainchild of songwriter/guitarist/vocalist Mark Wright. With a unique stomping heavy rock sound combined with epic soaring melody they have a broad appeal, says Nicole.