Aria inspired by Far North
A Kiwi artist has released a debut album of soulful songs, partly inspired by Northland and drives up to the Far North.
Aria’s EP, Love Songs Till Midnight, features seven songs that are close to her heart.
The title track is inspired by long drives to the Far North to visit family, where her mum and her would listen to Love Songs Till Midnight, a radio show hosted by Peter Sinclair.
‘‘The car was full of cheesy heartfelt love songs, as it curled up and around the windy hills, purring along the gravel roads of Northland. I am filled with nostalgia when I remember these times. I also know it was a huge influence on my love of music.’’
Aria, whose real name is Aria Jones, grew up in Tāmaki Makaurau but had a strong connection to Northland.
‘‘When my mum [Shaneen Moloney] was a toddler her whānau moved up to Kāeo.
‘‘My grandpa Bill Moloney, who passed away in January this year at age 97, worked as a doctor at the Kāeo hospital, and went on to have a general practice in Moerewa.
‘‘Although we lived in Tāmaki Makaurau when I was a kid, we spent most of our school holidays up at Te Ngaere Bay where my grandparents, aunty and cousins lived.
‘‘To this day I still visit the Far North, especially the Bay of
Islands, as often as I can, it is a spiritual home for me.’’
Love Songs Till Midnight is described musically as neo-soul, alternative R’n’B and dance, all with a hint of Aotearoa spice.
Aria’s previous experiences include writing and recording the Auckland anthem Friday with Homebrew, signing with Dr Colossus, Teeks and Noah Slee, but this EP release sees Aria step into the light as an accomplished solo artist.
‘‘I spent a lot of my music career supporting other artists and their projects.
‘‘I loved to sing and make music and I enjoyed contributing to other artists’ concepts and dreams.’’