Soundsplash releases first line-up for a 2018 festival

Soundsplash will return in January 2018.

Following last year's sold-out event, Soundsplash once again brings the heat, announcing an epic first line-up of international and local talent for the three-day January festival.

Festival director Brian Ruawai says leading the charge is Shapeshifter, bringing their legendary party-rocking skills to headline the main stage.

"Joining them will be Perth duo Slumberjack, returning to New Zealand off the back of sold-out shows to deliver another dose of bass-heavy club anthems.

The Soundsplash festival was sold-out last year.

"Melbourne's DUB FX will unleash his wicked one-man sound system, while Katchafire brings the Aotearoa reggae niceness. Soundsplash favourites Ocean Alley also return to play their only all-ages show in the country this summer," he said.

"Fresh from shows across the UK , Europe and the US, Pierce Brothers are set to make their Soundsplash debut, as will Poland's Dreadsquad, promising the best in riddim and bassline madness. Now based in Jamaica, Australia's Nattali Rize makes a welcome return with new band in tow, and Raglan locals Cornerstone Roots will continue their tradition of blazing Soundsplash performances.

"Melbourne's Fortunes will be dropping a hit of fresh R&B, while Bailey Wiley and TEEKS will serve up some of Aotearoa's finest neo and old-school soul.

"Tunes Of I will be holding it down roots reggae style, and hip hop will be represented by Stoneyhunga's finest, SWIDT, and rising queen JessB. Alien Weaponry is sure to get the mosh cranking with their unique brand of thrash metal, much of it delivered in Te Reo.

"Guaranteed to keep you dancing are Aroha & Tali and Jamin-I, while Sunshine Sound System returns for what will doubtless be another killer set," Mr Ruawai said.

At Raglan's Wainui Reserve with coastal views, on-site camping, beach access and an all-ages environment, Soundsplash is the must-do summer festival of 2018, he said.

With earlybird tickets already sold out, advance tickets are on sale from eventfinda.co.nz as well as Camping and Parking passes.

"Stay tuned for further line-up announcements, and head to soundsplash.co.nz to learn more."

Soundsplash January 19, 20, 21 at Wainui Reserve, Raglan. Tickets from eventfinda.co.nz