Band’s first single a success
Just two days after a Taranaki band released its first single, the lead singer found out the song was making its way onto playlists alongside massive Kiwi artists.
Alternative soul band Fin Rah Zel released its single Power on December 17, and the musicians are now ‘‘riding the wave’’ of its success, Brian Norton said.
The band is made up of Norton, who is the lead singer, songwriter, guitarist, and backup vocalists Chris Buhler, who is also on the bass, Jordan Jones, who plays percussion, and Jack Moser on the keyboard.
‘‘I got an email from Spotify saying it had cracked three top playlists,’’ Norton said. ‘‘This is a huge milestone for us, with it being played amongst New Zealand’s top artists such as L.A.B, Benee, Crowded House, etc.’’
Norton, who founded the band, created nine singles on his own – until an entertainment company asked if he would open for Kiwi band Sons of Zion at a gig in Palmerston North.
‘‘I though that’s a cool opportunity, but would be better with a band around me.’’
He had recently played with Moses, after the 18-year-old contacted him via social media asking if he wanted to ‘‘jam some time’’, and got in touch with Buhler and Jones, with whom he had previously linked up musically.
With four weeks to prepare, the band started practising Norton’s songs.
The gig was a success, and the band decided to keep together.
Then, earlier this year, Norton was inspired by Covid-19 lockdowns and wrote Power with the help of his bandmates.
‘‘It’s about self-empowerment, and getting through those tough times.’’
But Norton also had connections to Kiwi artist Tiki Taane, and asked him for a hand.
‘‘He ended up helping us with the track.’’
With grand plans in mind of making it on to the stage of ‘‘bigger festivals’’ next year, the band is working in the background.
‘‘We want to set up a strong foundation,’’ Norton said.
In the meantime, they have a few gigs pencilled in. ‘‘We’ve got 10 singles ready to record – we don’t have a shortage of music. I’m actually really excited.’’