Wrangling magic with musicians from behind the studio desk is Nic Manders’ daily bread – you’ll find crumbs of evidence peppered throughout the liner notes of projects by Brooke Fraser, Katchafire, Goldenhorse, and most other national treasures.

But the collaborations ground to a halt in the first half of 2020; months marked by imposed isolation and quietude. The veteran producer found himself suddenly unbusied by the projects of others. In a newly silent city, he walked the empty streets at dawn, checked on neighbours across the fence, and tinkered on the piano in his front lounge, making jokes about “that long awaited solo album.”

The album recorded over lockdown was mostly written whilst sitting on the side of Maungawhau / Mt Eden. What will make this night very special will be the playing of the songs in the space that inspired then, and that the act of playing them will illuminate that space.

This is an outdoor event. BYO blanket, seat and good vibes. Warm drinks and food will be available.  

The evening begins with a performance by Tereora – bringing waiata (songs) and kōrero about Te Whānau Marama (Family of Light), and the magic of Matariki/ The Māori New Year. Tereora’s work focuses on themes of Maumahara (rememberance) and celebration in Aotearoa, that the rising of the Matariki leads us into.