Photo: Dave Simpson
Amongst the gltiz and glam of the Taite Music Prize held last night at Q Theatre in Auckland, Reb Fountain was awarded the major gong! She won the Taite Music Prize for her self-titled album released last year. Congratulations Reb!
The album itself was released during lockdown last year, and Fountain acknowledged that she didn't realise how much it was cutting through with audiences until she began performing small shows during Level 2. The award was particularly special for her as a migrant to these shores, having arrived in 1979: “I’ve always felt like an underdog. Being a migrant, I've always felt like I’ve missed something or have not belonged. To be honoured in this way, it feels like I belong. It is really special” she said.
Speaking on the album, 2021 judging panel member Sarah Illingworth commented that "Reb Fountain sees its eponymous creator at the top of her game – or perhaps preparing to climb to new and headier peaks. The album and Reb’s path to releasing it captures the independent spirit championed by the Taite Music Prize while sparkling with the high calibre of production and performance that makes an artist a star."
We are also proud to announce that Na Noise won the 2021 Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award! The band, which features Flying Nun Label Manager Hariet Ellis, won the prize for their album Waiting For You.
Radio New Zealand's Charlotte Ryan commented that "Na Noise captured me with their psychedelic, hypnotizing guitars and vocals. Their sound and vibe remind me of bands from the past, singing cool pop songs with warped vocals and dark sonic undertones. Their debut was impressive, I'm excited to see what they do next."
On the night, the Independent Music New Zealand Classic Record Award went to Patea Māori Club for their iconic 1983 single Poi E, and The Independent Spirit Award was granted to Pete Rainey and Glenn Common of Smokefree Rockquest for their contribution to music through 33 years of motivating young musicians and helping them to develop their talent and creativity, musicianship, and performance skills.