Sons of Zion set to sell out in Kapiti

Sons of Zions are performing in Kapiti for the first time this Saturday evening.

Internationally recognised New Zealand band Sons of Zion is set to deliver a sellout performance in Kapiti this weekend, as they bring their chart topping tunes to local audiences for the first time.

Hitting the stage at Raumati Beach's Boundary Tap and Kitchen on Saturday evening, the Auckland based group will accompany acts Chad Chambers and Israel Starr, with a much anticipated 90 minute set.

Comprising six members, Sons of Zion's musical style has evolved over the years from classic New Zealand roots to a solid foundation of reggae layered with rock, gospel, soul and RnB elements.

Having joined forces in 2007, Sons of Zion includes lead singer Rio Panapa, drummer Zane Graham, keyboardist Joel Latimer, bass guitarist Matthew Sadgrove, lead guitarist Caleb Haap and Sam Eriwata on vocals, percussion and synth.

With an EP and two albums to their name, as well as a third album set for release early next year, Sons of Zion first came to light in 2009 with their debut self-titled album.

Not long after, their second album Universal Love received a number three placement on New Zealand's Top 40 Album Chart.

Among their widely followed tracks are audience favourites Stuck on Stupid and Tell Her, which reached top ten on the New Zealand charts and secured a notable following in Hawaii, where they hit number one.

Now, their latest single Hungover, which was released in April this year, has welcomed YouTube views of over 80,000.

Offering their own distinct style in New Zealand's thriving reggae scene, the group's name reflects the band members' Christian upbringing and collective love for reggae as a genre.

"Sam, Joel and I used to go to church together when we were younger and Zion is a common Utopia in both the bible and reggae music, so the name Sons of Zion was fitting for the boys," said Rio who, like his bandmates, recalled his parents as being early musical influences.

"We all enjoy a range of different music, but reggae is the common genre we all gravitated towards."

According to Rio, standout gigs for the boys had been major first time events, where their goal of playing certain stages was met with career sparking opportunity.

"Gigs like One Love, Homegrown, Ragamuffin and The Mayjah Rayjah have been standout, as well as overseas gigs.

"Music has taken us to some amazing places including Guam, Japan, Australia, Tahiti, Hawaii and Samoa."

Busy touring New Zealand twice a year, top to bottom, the boys looked forward to including Kapiti in this year's schedule, with a set that would bring the usual "pure fearless expression of Sons of Zion".

"Kapiti can expect to be taken on a musical journey," Rio said.

"We'll be taking them through the more intimate parts of our set and right through to the in your face pumping highs."

Sons of Zion are playing at Boundary Tap and Kitchen this Saturday, October 22, from 7pm to midnight. $30 presale tickets are available from the premise. $40 door sales. R18 event.

For more information visit The Paepae Soundsytem's Facebook event here.