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Psychedelic folk quartet A.U.R.A are revisiting the Leigh Sawmill on April 12 as part of a national tour of boutique gig venues for their new album, Secret Intelligent Light.
A.U.R.A started as a solo project by Albert Mikolaj but has picked up talent over the years, including Ben Lemi (French for Rabbits, Trinity Roots, Dawn Diver), Deanne Krieg (Ida Lune, Congress of Animals) and Samuel Austin.
Albert says his song writing has been inspired by time spent in Argentina during the 2001 economic crisis.
“It had a rhythmic influence and I started introducing Spanish into my lyrics. It made me realise that melody is more important than language and is a way of escaping the tropes.”
The band’s new single Immensely I is driven by strong drum beats, punchy bass and afro-infused guitar riffs.
Albert says it’s reminiscent of Paul Simons’ landmark release, Graceland.
Audiences on the night can expect a bit of introspection and a lot of dancing.
“It will be more of a deep night than a big Friday out, but you will get something else in return for that. It will have a lot of heart which is what I think New Zealand needs right now.”
“The Sawmill has a great vibe because it is set up for the music rather than just focusing on the beer drinking,” he says.
Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are $15 from undertheradard.co.nz.
Ticket Giveaway
Mahurangi Matters has a double pass for A.U.R.A at the Leigh Sawmill. To win, just email your name and contact number with “AURA” in the subject to news@localmatters.co.nz by Wednesday, April 10.
