Salient Issue 08 - Volume 87

13

EDITORIAL | ĒTITA

GIGS & EVENTS

THE NEWS | KAWEPŪRONGO

Pacific Nations and Languages

Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds (she/they) & Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (she/her/ia)

got something to say?

Our magazine, Salient, is run by students for students. Without the involvement of students, we wouldn't be able to operate. Every year, we welcome pitches and inquiries from individuals who are interested in writing for us. For more information, please email editor@salient. org.nz or visit our website at salient.org.nz.

Jia Sharma (she/her)

The

HOROSCOPES

Folk Music

Ryan Cleland Rock & Roll: A Reluctant Eulogy

If You're Not Growing, You'll Rot

Katie Hunter (she/her)

Navigating the Algorithm

Henry Broadbent (he/him) Salient's Top 20

ARTS & CULTURE | AHUREA

COLUMNS | TĪWAE

PUZZLES | PANGA

PODCASTS | KŌNAE IPURANGI

photography in this issue

complaints

Complaints regarding the material published in Salient should first be brought to the CEO in writing (ceo@vuwsa.org. nz). If not satisfied with the response, complaints should be directed to the Media Council (info@ mediacouncil.org.nz).

about us

Salient is published by, but remains editorially independent from, the Victoria University of Wellington Student's Association (VUWSA). Salient is funded in part by VUWSA through Student Services Levy. Salient is a member of the Aotearoa Student Press Association (ASPA).

The views expressed in Salient do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor, VUWSA, or the University.

find us

Twitter @salientmagazine

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Besides the Cover and News, this issue of Salient contains photography kindly supplied by Ben Kirilo (@benkirilo on Instagram).

EDITORIAL MUSIC

It is officially my favourite time of year: the Salient music issue. The team here at Salient loves music, there’s always a playlist of the most depressing songs playing in the office to get us in the writing mood. I’ve found there’s no cure for writer's block better than Phoebe Bridgers.

In Wellington, music is such a strong part of the cultural scene. With bands playing gigs left and right, and buskers up and down Cuba Street, music is infused into the air of this city and it’s my favourite thing about it. It would be a disservice for us not to have an entire issue celebrating this.

Think about the first gig you went to, an album that hit hard, or a favourite song that you could recite every word to in your sleep. This issue is an homage to those moments—the ones that define our musical identities.

Our lineup of articles in this issue cover a diverse range of musical landscapes. We explore the revolutionary

impact of PC Music on pop music, the decline of rock n’ roll, the importance of folk music, the influence of Māori music in Aotearoa, and the journey of personal growth as a musician. We’ve also featured a list of studylink-approved meal steals for those like me who also spend all of their student loan money on going to gigs and buying overpriced records.

I hope that you find something in this issue that inspires you. Maybe it will introduce you to a genre you haven’t listened to much or even deepen your appreciation for your favourite songs. Maybe it will make you pick up that guitar that’s been gathering dust in the corner of your room. Either way, enjoy the issue, take off your headphones, and bless your flatmates with your loud, niche music.

Jia Sharma

Music Editor

bird of the week

Kākāpō

The Kākāpō, a charismatic nocturnal parrot endemic to New Zealand, is a living testament to resilience and conservation efforts. With moss-green plumage and a distinctive owl-like face, this ground-dwelling bird is both unique and critically endangered. Renowned for their nocturnal habits, Kākāpō are exceptional climbers, often perching on trees during the night to feed on native fruits, seeds, and bark. Their distinct, musty-sweet odor is another unique trait, thought to be linked to their diet and behavior. Once on the brink of extinction, intensive conservation measures have stabilized their population. The Kākāpō's breeding habits, notably the rare "boom and bust" cycles, add to their charm. Conservationists work tirelessly to safeguard these flightless birds from invasive predators, ensuring the continuation of one of the most exceptional and scarce avian creatures on Earth.

gig guide

WED | San Fran | 8pm

Eyegum (Free) Wednesdays

Honestly I’m running out of new ways to describe a consistent, beloved weekly event. Of course, that assumes people read the gig guide. Look. The beer continues to be very cheap. The acts continue to be many, varied, and free. The vibes remain excellent, the balcony remains crowded, and the mosh remains superb. This week, you’ll be treated to performances by newcomers Red Necklace, political pop/punk outfit Caught Inside, and DJ Wildstorm!

Free!

SAT | Poquito | 8.30pm

Amiria Grenell

Ōtautahi musician Amira Grenell is joining us in Pōneke to celebrate the release of her fourth album, The Winter Light, last month. Grenell has made a name for herself in the indie/folk scene with a series of critically lauded LPs, while resisting the strictest confines of her genre. Expect a beautiful set of cosy, delicate songs rich in natural imagery, and an intimate venue to match. Poquito is tiny! So show up in good time if you’d like a table.

Tickets $35

Enjoy our small, lovingly curated selection of gigs.

THUR | Valhalla | 7.30pm

Your Arms are My Cocoon, Blind Equation

A once niche genre-tag is taking the world by storm: Midwest Emo. Each year, more and more of us are confronted by its presence in our genre breakdown. This Thursday, leave the vistas of Pōneke behind and live out your emotionally sensitive flyover-state dreams with two US acts at Valhalla. Your Arms… will deliver an emotional set of indie/bedroom screamo; Blind Equation will up the energy with an insane, high energy cybergrind/ hyperpop set.

Tickets $34

SAT | Meow | 8pm

DARTZ - UK/EU Sendoff

Beloved punks, #1 NZ chart toppers, and Wellington’s loudest guys DARTZ are off on a UK/European tour, next week! Head down to Meow and send them off in style for the final leg of their Aotearoa tour. Expect noisy, high energy punk from the headliners, and killer opening acts from Sleeping Village and Side Eye. Oh, and there will be snags.

Tickets $30

protest calendar

TUES | Parliament Grounds | 12.30pm

Rally for Mental Health

Join the Mental Health Initiative Aotearoa this Tuesday at Parliament. From the organisers: “Our mental health system is failing young people. We can no longer sit back and ignore the suffering of so many. Let's show our leaders this isn't good enough. Join us for a peaceful protest in which we ask politicians to follow up on their promises and do better … This is our time, these are our lives, and it is our future that is on the line. Mental health needs to be made a priority, NOW.”

WED | Glover Park | 5pm - late

FRI | San Fran | 6.30pm

Melodrama: A Sad Girl Indie Night

“I hate you for what you did and I miss you like a little kid”

The weekend is here! Let’s get fucking SAD.

This Friday at San Fran DJs Transmission and Superficial will be spinning your favourite indie sad girl hits, all night long. Ever wondered what it’s like to mosh to boygenius? Honestly, me too. One way to find out! There’ll be tunes from Lorde, Lana Del Ray, Florence + The Machine, Mitski, Lucy Dacus, Julia Jacklon, Mazzy Star, Julian Baker, Laufey, and much, much more! Crying with strangers is supposed to be cathartic.

Tickets $22

SUN | Space Place | 7.30pm

Terror of the Deep

Looking for a weird and wonderful way to spend a comedown this Sunday? Or, even, a way to spend the come-up? Space is still the place. Wellington locals Terror of the Deep will be performing their indierock concept album, Space Epic, UNDER THE DOME. That’s right, the venue is the universe—dance your way through the night under captivating visuals, projected onto the planetarium dome. Tix include Space Place gallery access, and there will be a bar!

Tickets $30

Scan this code for a more comprehensive protest destination.

MAY DAY - Peace, Justice and Decent Work for All

This International Workers Day Unions Wellington is hosting a march from Te Aro Park at 5pm to Glover Park, and a concert from 7pm at the Rogue and Vagabond. The kaupapa of the march centres on peace: cutting ties with occupations in Palestine, West Papua and West Sahara, justice: for a tiriticentered, climate just Aotearoa, and decent work for all: agitating for a nationwide living wage. Local legends Vera Ellen, Tahini Bikini, and Class War on the Dancefloor will provide the party.

FUCKING

IMPACT OF PUBLIC SERVICE

JOB CUTS

FELT BY WOULD-BE PUBLIC SERVANTS

ETHAN ROGACION (HE/HIm)

This time of year is typically the peak recruitment season for summer internships and graduate roles, especially for those wanting to apply for roles in the public service. However, following the Government’s programme of job cuts to a number of ministries and other public agencies, this may prove more challenging for anyone looking to do so this year.

Students currently applying for internships in the public sector may have noticed that multiple agencies have also rolled back programmes for university students, with some programmes disappearing entirely from websites. MBIE, for example, typically runs graduate and summer internship programmes—however, the Ministry’s website currently only hosts information about applications from last year’s intake.

Jennifer Nathan, MBIE’s Chief People Officer, told Salient that the Ministry is currently undergoing active “formal change consultation” with regard to cuts. Nathan did not provide further comment about what the impact this would have on the future of these programmes, because consultation is active.

MBIE confirmed that “All external recruitment has been paused and this includes graduate recruitment,” adding it “will continue to consider the context for our [programmes] to ensure they align with any changes in our organisational environment.”

The Government Legal Network—which runs clerkships and graduate programmes for law students on behalf of Crown Law—have also paused its recruitment for this year. A spokesperson told Salient that this is in order for Crown Law to “consider our ongoing work programme and priorities which will include delivery of the Summer Clerk Programme in the future.”

across the public sector, GLN also told Salient that there has been “no specific instruction has been given [by the Attorney-General] regarding the GLN Summer Clerk and graduate programme”.

In an apparent coincidence (albeit a poorly timed one), this is not the only instance of a Ministry pausing internships unrelated to its ongoing cuts. The Ministry of Education which, as reported by RNZ has so far cut 565 roles, is temporarily pausing its internship recruitment, but has said that this is “not linked to the change process”.

Nicola Willis, Minister for the Public Service, has not been advised of the impact that cuts will have on people seeking public service internships and graduate programmes. “Our expectation is that every Government agency will ensure they are structured to support effective delivery of frontline public services to New Zealanders,” she said.

Manager of Wellington Careers and Employment, Andrew Tui, told Salient, “Our Careers and Employment team have had some students mention they are concerned about the impact of the public service job cuts on future employment opportunities, but the team is not aware of any students struggling to find public service opportunities at the moment.”

Tui’s gave this advice for students thinking of joining the public service during a period of historic job cuts: “We want our students to be best prepared for future employment—this includes having the ability to tailor applications, an ability to connect with employers and networks, the confidence to use LinkedIn, and knowing how to research industries of interest.” Just know that even for the most confident LinkedIn users among us, having a hard time in the job market might not be all down to your CV.

While this is happening in the context of broad cuts 29.04.2024

OPINION

The Government’s Sooo RightEvery Problem Can Be Solved With Tunnels!

ETHAN ROGACION (HE/HIm)

The Government has recently put a transport policy back onto the table, one which originally reared its head in as a mooted Let’s Get Wellington Moving proposal. Transport Minister Simeon Brown has taken the LGWM ‘long tunnel’ and made it his own, adding snappy capitals and floating the idea of the Long Tunnel™, a massive 4km stretch of underground road which would go from The Terrace to Kilbirnie.

The project would be one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in this country’s history, according to reports in The Post and NZ Herald. I personally don’t think $2 billion dollars is that much money to cut down driving times across the city by a Little Bit. But just think about all the “buildings” and “people’s houses” that need to be knocked out of the way! Indeed, I think we need to celebrate the Government’s bravery, solving a problem that probably exists and might be real!

Long Tunnel™ would make it much easier to get from the CBD to the airport, which is of interest to every student looking to flee this city as soon as they finish their degree. The Minister even indicated that he’s instructed Waka Kotahi NZTA to consider adding a singular exit to the Tunnel™ at the Basin Reserve; how generous! Who cares about the fact that commuters using SH1 tend to exit off the motorway in Te Aro anyway.

This got me thinking: if this non-problem can be solved with a tunnel, what else can a big hole in the earth help out with? What about an underground tunnel connecting Kelburn and Pipitea campuses? Or a tunnel direct from my flat to Cuba St? If the government can build tunnels and make new roads, serving a small percentage of Wellington commuters, with money that could instead be spent solving this city’s actual infrastructure issues and improving public transport, then why can’t I!

City Bus Service Blindspots: Ōwhiro Bay Residents Develop Killer Calves

DAN mOSKOVITZ (HE/HIm)

Ōwhiro Bay has been abandoned by the bus network, according to a new report.

During off-peak times, it takes two buses and over 45 minutes to get from Ōwhiro Bay to the city centre. The suburb is disproportionately affected by bus cancellations. Its residents are fed up. Now, they’ve taken matters into their own hands, writing a twenty-thousand-word report to prove their own experience.

Jack Graham and Arunan Noble are both Ōwhiro Bay residents and, in the spirit of full disclosure, friends of the author. They both live with their parents while studying at VUW. After many years of being disappointed by the bus system, hope was initially raised when Metlink announced incoming improvements at the start of 2024.

Instead, what they got was a personal insult to Ōwhiro Bay.

“Before the 2018 bus system reform, Ōwhiro Bay was serviced by the number 4 route, which ran at peak times,” says Graham.

“It came every 15 minutes, and it was really useful for people who needed to commute to and from Ōwhiro Bay. It was the bee’s knees. It was beloved by everyone.”

The number 4 is now back—but not in Ōwhiro Bay. (Re?)launched in 2024, it runs between Strathmore Park and Mairangi.

“It just felt cold. So I decided to have a look into Ōwhiro Bay’s buses,” says Graham. “I thought I was going to write Metlink a rambly email telling them

the news kawepūrongo

I hate them, and it turned out there was more in it than I thought.”

Graham got Noble involved, and together they cofounded Better Buses Ōwhiro Bay, where the report is officially published. Together, they wrote 20,000 words, across 103 pages. Longer than your average rambly email.

Ōwhiro Bay is currently serviced by the all-day 29 and the on-peak 39. Neither is great; the 29 has several services which terminate before reaching Ōwhiro Bay, while the 39 is far less frequent than the pre-2018 4. But crucially, there just aren’t enough of either bus.

When compared to similar suburbs of a similar distance from the CBD, Ōwhiro Bay is far below the average number of hourly buses, averaging only 1.58 per hour going each way. This is 57% below the average for comparable suburbs.

There’s a human cost to such a lack of public transport.

Arunan Noble, Graham’s co-author, drives into Island Bay to catch the number 1 when he wants to get to uni.

He’s not alone. To get to the hospital at 9am on a Monday morning from Happy Valley Road—Ōwhiro Bay’s main street—Metlink’s fastest suggestions either involve a 25-minute walk from Mount Cook to the Hospital or a 25-minute walk to Island Bay, depending on what side of Happy Valley Road you are on.

“We have a lot of hospital workers in Ōwhiro Bay, and it’s really hard to get there under the current network,” says Noble. “So often hospital workers here either have to spend an arm and a leg in Newtown to park close to where they work or park elsewhere—sometimes even as far away as Island Bay—and walk.”

Graham and Noble’s work wasn’t limited to research; through surveys put on posts in Ōwhiro Bay as well as links on Facebook they also got a sense of the community’s feelings. With 207 responses—9% of Ōwhiro Bay—the survey was a hit.

One question asked survey-takers to rate their satisfaction with the bus network out of 10, mimicking a question Metlink asks in its yearly survey. Ōwhiro Bay’s average was 2.7. The 2023 Wellington average in Metlink’s survey was 6.7.

To improve this, Graham and Noble have several recommendations, including more frequent and consistent 29s and 39s, and extending every second number 1 Ōwhiro Bay, amongst others.

The number 1 currently terminates in Island Bay after originating from Wellington’s northern suburbs, however Noble and Graham (conservatively) estimate that such an addition would only add a total of 15 minutes of travel time.

“The average number of buses in Ōwhiro Bay needs to at the minimum double. The number 29 coming every 30 minutes cannot do that,” said Graham.

“Having an alternating schedule would provide these services. Mathematically, it works.”

Similar measures are already in place on other Metlink routes; the number 2, which is as high-frequency as the number 1, already alternates between finishing its services in either Seatoun or Miramar.

“Metlink has received Better Buses Ōwhiro Bay’s report, and appreciate the time that went into compiling it,” said Metlink acting group manager Bonnie Parfitt in a statement.

“We are happy to receive the report as an early submission to the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP), which opens for consultation later this year. “We always want to hear how our passengers believe services can be improved. Our Public Transport Advisory Group, comprising members of the community, regularly provides advice to the Council from a passenger perspective.”

Graph supplied by Better Buses Ōwhiro Bay.

AIRPORT SHARES BRING OUT TURBULENT POLITICS AT COUNCIL

DARCY LAWRY (HE/HIm)

Wellington City Council’s Long Term Plan is currently out for consultation. For the uninitiated, the LTP sets out the council’s plans for the next 10 years and is updated every 3 years. This year’s overarching document outlines exciting stuff like a proposed new organic waste collection scheme which could divert up to 70% of organic waste from landfill by 2030.

But, in true local politics fashion, the attention of our councillors has been drawn to a messy fight over the future of the council’s airport shares. Council holds a 34 per cent stake in the airport, with two members on the board. Mayor Tory Whanau is pushing a sale of the shares to address the looming $2.6 billion dollar hole in the council’s insurance for the city.

The council has a borrowing capacity of $272 million to cover uninsured risks, roughly only 10% of what is needed to cover the council’s insurance costs. Staring down the barrel of this fiscal hole, the council has begun exploring selling their shares and setting up an ethical “Perpetual Investment Fund” which could be drawn upon in the event of a natural disaster.

Unions Wellington is organising a Keep The Airport Ours campaign to prevent this, and has been joined in their efforts by climate organisations Generation Zero, 350 Aotearoa, and Climate Clinic. The campaign argues that keeping the airport shares is essential to retain public accountability over the airport. Unions Wellington convenor Sabina Rizos-Shaw says that

through their shares the council has the ability to “have an impact on what [the airport] does for the community, the amount of pollution it is doing to the environment, and the working environment it provides”.

The airport shares issue has thrown normal party politics out the window. The Green and Labour councillors who are against the sale have found an unlikely ally in Ray Chung, who typically holds to the right on issues. Councillor Tim Brown describes the issue as having three camps. One who sees the sale as necessary to solve the insurance problem, one who recognises the importance of the problem but is reluctant to sell the shares, and another who opposes it for “entirely philosophical reasons”.

The issue has the left split. Tory Whanau is leading the charge to sell the shares, but her Green party counterparts on council Nīkau Wi Neera and Deputy Mayor Laurie Foon have committed to voting against a sale.

A final plan is scheduled to be adopted in June.

You can make your voice heard by submitting on the long term plan through the council’s website. Submissions close on 12th May.

JOJO'S BIZARRE ADVENTURE

MIS

On the 6th of March Jojo Siwa uploaded a blank square to her Instagram account with the text “couldn’t load image. Tap to retry”, and the caption: “bitch”. Meanwhile, on her Tik Tok account she posted a video with the caption “It was a matter of time”, and a series of slideshow images stating, in order, “See You In One Month Remember Karma’s A Bitch.”

She then went on to upload a series of grainy rehearsal photos and videos from the 6th of March to the 13th of March on her Instagram. The respective captions: “a, Karma’s, remember, month, one, in, you, see, I should’ve known better.” We can now take this to mean “Remember karma’s a [blank], I should’ve known better. See you in one month.” On the 19th of March, Siwa released the first snippet of “Karma”, a behind-the-scenes of rehearsals with the lyrics “I was a bad girl.” In this video, Siwa showed off her ‘new’ style. On the 17th of March she released another behind-the-scenes video, this time the now infamous dance to her song “Karma”, choreographed by Richy Jackson.

On the 2nd of April she was photographed outside an adult store by paparazzi. In the image, she clearly displays a long receipt to the camera as well as holding a newly bought giant penis plushy. This is reminiscent of when Madonna was photographed leaving an adult store in 2007. Madonna's bag was clear, displaying a “‘Purple Penetrator’ strap-on sex toy.” Unfortunately, Siwa’s bag was opaque.

On the 5th of April “Karma” was officially released. However, shortly afterwards it was alleged that the song was not written by Siwa. Allegedly it was written in the early 2010’s as an unreleased Miley Cyrus song. This was confirmed by singer Brit Smith on the 13th of April (via Page Six) who recorded the song with Rock Mafia in 2012. She confirmed the song was originally intended for singer Miley Cyrus and it was passed on to Brit Smith, but never released.

pHOEbE RObERTSON (SHE/HER)

PICTURED: Jojo Siwa holds a penis plushy and bag full of sex toys after being spotted exiting a sex shop; Photograph sourced from news.com.au

On the 8th of April Siwa came under fire after an interview with Billboard in which she stated that she “wanted to start a new genre of music… it’s called ‘gay pop’ … It’s that world of music, where it’s not necessarily pop—it’s not giving you Katy Perry ‘California Girls’ pop, it’s giving you Lady Gaga ‘Judas’”.

TMZ approached Siwa for a comment on the 15th of April. She said she “[doesn't] know who Brit Smith is.” And “I did not steal anything. There's no such thing as stealing." When approached, the honorable Mark Mitchell, New Zealand minister of Police, did not respond to a request for comment about whether stealing exists or not.

This claim that Siwa does not write her own songs was further substantiated when Tik Tokers noticed that another song “Choose Ur lover (fighter)” (leaked at Siwas launch party), was first released to the platform in 2022 from Tik Tok user @EMELINE. @ EMELINE is alleged to have written the song. After a flood of comments @EMELINE responded in the comments saying “hi 2024 fans, i’m going to make a storytime soon. i actually didn’t sign off on it coming out with jojo (not her fault). if my version gets love, i can still put it out after hers [purple love heart emoji] thanks for the support”. This comment, and the original video of the song by creator @EMELINE has been deleted.

The launch party sparked further controversy when notably ‘canceled’ figures Colleen Ballinger, Tom Sandoval and James Charles were in attendance.

To further the drama, on the 14th of April Brit Smith released her version of “Karma” on streaming platforms. As of the 19th of April, Smith’s recording of the song (released under the title of “Karma’s a Bitch”) ranked number five on the iTunes pop charts. Siwa’s “Karma” was No. 63. Taylor Swift's “Karma” ranked in the middle at 46th, but does not share lyrics with either previously mentioned song. As of the 24th of April both Smith and Siwa have been kicked off the charts with Swift releasing a new double album. Unfortunately, none of Swift's songs appear to reference Siwa.

The controversy does not appear to be affecting Siwa, as she was spotted performing at Miami Pride

on the 14th of April. Confusingly, her set included her song “Boomerang” which was released in 2016 when Siwa was in her “good girl” era. An estimated 55,000 people were in attendance to see the event (and identity crisis) unfold.

On the 18th of April, in the comment section of the Tik Tok video posted that day, @Anne asked Siwa “When are you going to write your own songs?” To which Siwa replied “Never, I’m not a songwriter. I’m an entertainer, artist and performer.”

This entire reband follows a damning Rolling Stone article about Siwa and her mother that was released on the 13th of February 2024. In the article, former members of Jojo Siwas group XOMG Pop! speak out against Siwa, alleging “cruel” behavior by Siwa and her mother Jessalynn. This includes Jessalynn encouraging a performer “to attend a video shoot just a few weeks after she underwent spinal cord surgery.” The Siwas later denied a detailed list of these accusations “via their counsel, entertainment attorney Bryan Freedman, saying the abuse came from Anjie.” Anjie is the mother of one of the XOMG Pop! dancers.

It remains unknown what the future holds for the Siwa’s; but one thing is clear. Jojo Siwa “should’ve known better” than to think a rebrand would be enough to quiet the allegations of abuse. To the reader, watch this space.

PICTURED: Jojo Siwa's bold new look; Photograph sourced from The Today Show.

EDUCATION

ASHLEIGH pUTT-FALLOWS (SHE/HER/IA) | NGĀTI WHĀTUA, NGĀpUHI-NGĀTI HINE, TŪHOE)

As announced to staff last week, the Freedom of Speech panel was indefinitely postponed. This piece is about lessons that can be learned from the entire ordeal. This is generalised, however I encourage anyone working with the goal of engaging with the student body to take some notes.

Now you may be thinking, who are you, and why do you think you can give advice? Well, as a student and young person with five years worth of youth engagement experience and event organising under my belt, I can safely say I know a little bit about this.

Firstly, let's talk about organising. It's become obvious that when planning an event, you should have a solid, fully completed, and organised plan before doing anything else—this helps you avoid issues later on. This plan should also include consulting with a wide range of interest groups, as many as you can within your audience, confirming who's attending, and determining what your communications approach is going to be.

On the topic of audience, identify who this actually is and if they exist. If your audience is small, easy: make it a smaller targeted event so others who are just existing don't have to be subjected to it. As clubs at the university are held, plenty of spaces are available as long as you book in advance.

It's also important to clarify your goal. What are you trying to achieve? What is the purpose of your event? Is it worth it? Is there a better way to accomplish this? These are all very important questions. The next and possibly biggest thing is communication.

Communication truly is key; if you fuck this up, you're a bit stuffed. First things first, have a goddamn plan. If you don't plan, you're going to fuck it up. Communicating with the youth can be difficult, but recognising that words can mean vastly different things and being very clear about things such as your goal, purpose and what's going on is essential. Transparency is also important when communicating with anyone, especially youth. Golden rule is: if you're not doing anything wrong you shouldn't be hiding it. Another important aspect is being consistent, both with internal and external communications; misunderstandings or miscommunication will always happen, but being on the same page is great; nobody loves to be blindsided or told a million different things that are incredibly different.

Promotion is a part of communication, but as it's external, it is imperative to do it right. Making sure everyone gets clear and consistent information prevents people from getting pissed off at you and your event. A big part of this is your phrasing: what are you saying to us? Is it relevant or necessary to phrase it that way, or could you just be basic and call it what it is?

The most important thing is listening to feedback and acting quickly, particularly when it's valid. This will directly tell you what is and is not working for your audience, and because it's your audience, you should listen.

Lastly, something we can all take away from this is that students will not shut up if you bring (or try to bring) rhetoric that has the potential to cause harm into a space where we are just trying to exist. You should always be asking the question "what do we value more? The safety of the people in our community or a random outspoken person we didn't have to cater to in the first place."

words by Te Huihui o Matariki Chi Huy Tran (he/him) (Taranaki Tūturu, Te iwi o Maruwharanui, Ngāti Maniapoto)

words by Te Huihui o Matariki Chi Huy Tran (he/him) (Taranaki Tūturu, Te iwi o Maruwharanui, Ngāti Maniapoto)

Hawaii’s Merrie Monarch Festival

words by Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (she/her/ia) (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi-Ngāti Hine, Tūhoe)

The 61st annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture, concluded in Hilo, Hawai’i, leaving behind a legacy of tradition, language, and song. The festival, dedicated to honoring King David La’amea Kalākaua, known as the Merri Monarch, and marking the 40th anniversary of the Hawaiian language revitalization movement, showcased the art of hula and the spirit of community. Bringing together locals and visitors alike, the festival featured not only mesmerizing hula performances but also a vibrant parade and an invitational arts fair. Ha'amauliola Aiona, a teacher at Ke Kula 'O Nāwahīokalani'ōpu'u charter school and a veteran dancer, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a moment for Hilo to shine. For participants like Aiona's students and groups such as Ka Lā 'Ōnohi Mai O Ha'eha'e, who clinched first place in the Hula Kahiko and Hula ‘Auana competition, the festival was both a showcase of talent and a tribute to the rich heritage of Hawai’i.

words by Te Huihui o Matariki Chi Huy Tran (he/him) (Taranaki Tūturu, Te iwi o Maruwharanui, Ngāti Maniapoto)

Australian born judge faces deportation from

words by Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (she/her/ia) (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi-Ngāti Hine, Tūhoe)

Kiribati

An Australian-born judge residing in Kiribati faces potential deportation following a tribunal ruling recommending his removal from the judiciary. The tribunal report, recently presented in the Kiribati Parliament, will undergo debate this week, marking the final days of the current parliamentary session before the upcoming general election. The case centers on David Lambourne, who has lived in Kiribati for years and is married to the opposition leader. The tribunal focused on Lambourne's failure to deliver a written decision on a civil court case in 2020, citing delays exacerbated by COVID-19 restrictions. Despite previous rulings in Lambourne's favor, the government seeks his removal. The tribunal's recommendation to Parliament suggests considering Lambourne's removal due to persistent delays in judgments and allegations of bullying. With the ruling party likely aiming to resolve the issue before elections, Lambourne faces immediate deportation, though he may appeal the tribunal's findings.

which is not currently included in Aotearoa’s official Pacific Language Weeks. This column was created with the help of the Melanesian Students’ Association, and their president Abigail Kalontano.

It’s believed that Vanuatu was first inhabited by the Lapita people around 3000 years ago, making it one of the first islands to be settled in the Pacific. In 1606, Portuguese navigator Fernandes de Queirós came across the archipelago and mistakenly identified it as the ‘Great Southern Continent’ (e.g. Australia). Following this, various Europeans passed Vanuatu, naming and renaming the islands. But it was Cook who extensively explored it, giving it the name ‘New Hebrides’. Then, in the 1860s, Australia, Fiji, Samoa, and New Caledonia established a long-term indentured labour trade, which saw the kidnapping and displacement of over half the male population of Vanuatu (as well as the Solomon Islands and across Papua). This became known as ‘Blackbirding’. From 1906 to 1980, the New Hebrides was under joint British and French administration, but in 1980, they became the independent nation of Vanuatu.

Email greetings and sign offs

Halo = Hello Tankiu tumas = Thank you very much

General phrases

Plis = Please Tankiu (tumas) = Thank you very much Sori (tumas) = (Very) sorry Lukim yu = See you later Mi no save = I don’t know

Proverbs

Rispek emi honarabol = Respect is honourable (Late Father Walter H Lini, Vanuatu’s first Prime Minister)

Na mer’peleana rag’ kiki = Accidents can happen very quickly (Nakanamaga dialect from Central Vanuatu)

Vanuatu consists of 83 islands (65 of which are uninhabited) and is divided into 6 provinces: Malampa, Penama, Sanma, Shefa, Tafea, and Torba. 113 indigenous languages are spoken across the region; however, the official languages are Bislama, English, and French. Vanuatu is the nation with the highest density of languages per capita in the world. Here we'll be looking at only one dialect, Bislama.

Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds (she/they)

Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (she/her/ia)

rocked & rolled by Jia Sharma (she/her)

ROCK & ROCK

A Reluctant Eulogy

One of the many struggles I face in my day-to-day life is the constant reminder that most of my favourite musicians are either dead or too old to function. The fact that I will never get to see David Bowie or Freddie Mercury live is the sole reason for my bitterness. At this point, I just pray the few bands I have left do a reunion tour so I can hear them play live before they bite the dust. Even then, I’m sure it would be a very depressing and underwhelming experience with most ‘rockstars’ being unable to sing anymore. I'm looking at you, Axl Rose.

Stooges, as well as guitar bands such as Cream. It also brought glam rock, which Elton John, Iggy Pop, and David Bowie dominated. The ‘80s brought hard rock bands such as Mötley Crüe and Guns n’ Roses, and prior music became outdated. By the 2000s, pop-rock replaced rock and roll on the charts.

First, let’s start with a bit of Rock History 101. We saw our first glimpse of rock and roll in the ‘50s with artists like Elvis Presley, influenced by RNB and the blues. The ’60s brought The Beatles and The Rolling Stones and, from there, rock music branched off. In the ‘70s came Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and The

My point is, from the birth of rock and roll until the ‘90s (when grunge took over), there were eras that defined each decade. Just by listening to the music and observing the band's style and album covers, you can easily pinpoint which time period of rock music it belongs to. When you see leather, teased hair, and enough hairspray to damage the ozone layer, you know it's from the '80s. And if you hear a song that sounds like the whole band was tripping on mushrooms, chances are it's from the '60s.

Today, rock music doesn’t dominate the scene. Rather, a much smaller pool of bands and artists keep the genre alive. As far as modern (kinda) rock bands go, there are Queens of the Stone Age and Muse. While these bands are great, I think most people would consider rock and roll as a movement dead, or at least on an extended break.

I’ve been a massive classic rock fan since I was twelve years old (the first time a boy told me to name three Guns n’ Roses songs). I entered this piece with the intention of persuading the universe to revive the spirit of rock and roll; after my research, I’m questioning if that’s even possible. Especially with ‘80s classic rock, the era is defined by the lifestyle that comes with it. Sex, drugs, rock and roll. It was full of constant hedonistic temptations, and was ultimately destructive. I had the opportunity to talk to the co-founder of Flying Nun, Roger Shepherd, about this topic and he said, “There’s also that whole tricky thing of being a band, playing live at night, and what you do afterward”.

What appealed to people was a combination of the music itself as well as the scandal and glamour. Rock and roll, as an era, was all about rebellion. The lifestyle associated with it could only exist at that time. In the '80s, the market saw a surge in new and exciting substances which became increasingly convenient for consumers to obtain. The list of prominent musicians in that scene who struggled with substance abuse is frighteningly long and has resulted in the loss of so many talented performers. The lifestyle was so destructive that each band could only last so long at their prime.

Look at Guns n’ Roses, who have been labelled ‘the most dangerous band in the world’. Their accurately titled album, ‘Appetite for Destruction’ reflects their riotous lifestyle and their readiness to crash and burn. Their scandalous reputation was their reality: doing drugs left and right, committing crimes, and mistreating women. They were unpredictable and therefore dangerous to everyone around them, whether it was their record label who invested money in them, the media and staff to whom they were verbally abusive, and especially fans. ‘Groupies’ were a big part of the scene, often underage, often targeted by members of the band, and even travelling with them on their tours.

I remember watching The Dirt, which is the story of Mötley Crüe, and being so concerned about what was on the screen. All you really need to know is that you get to watch Ozzy Osbourne snort a line

of ants, and that there were more lines of coke than lines of dialogue. While the film isn’t entirely based on fact, I don’t think there was a single person who watched it and thought “Oh my god, they’re so cool”.

For the longest time I obsessed over Hollywood in the ‘80s and the Sunset Strip, going to gigs at the Whiskey a Go Go and The Troubadour. Realistically, it’s probably the last place I would like to be. However, I’ll still always love the music and sound. I still want to hear an evolved resurgence of this kind of music.

It’s unrealistic to expect a genre or movement to stick around forever, as is true with any art form. “People are keen on novelty”, as Roger Shepherd says. He used this metaphor about schools of fish. One band always has to be at the front and there’s this mass behind them who all keep together. The cycle of popularity constantly shifts, with bands moving from the front to the back to the middle, eventually disappearing completely.

When I raised the question of whether rock and roll could exist without the lifestyle that came with it, Roger said, “I’d like to think so. If there’s drugs and drinks involved it’s a bit of a ticking time bomb, you can’t sustain a life with too much of any of those things… sometimes they have a terminating effect”. While musicians have always used drugs, it's now more common for music and drugs to be separate.

I’d like to be an optimist, I think it can come back. I agree with Roger in the sense that in order to come back it needs to freshen itself up, it needs to be more than just about the look. While I desire a rebirth, I know it will never be the same, and that’s not a bad thing. It would be unbelievably boring if it was. I think most people have an era of music that they are nostalgic for, even more so if they weren’t around to see it. It’s the same with other genres like grunge and punk that aren’t as prominent as they used to be, and fans of them now have to search for a glimpse of it in a much larger pool than there was fifty years ago.

Obviously, there are still rock bands around, I know they didn’t go extinct at Y2K. However, its potential to come back matured and more about the music itself as a prominent genre is constantly teasing me. If anyone wants to introduce me to some great modern rock bands, please do. I’ll be grateful if I’ve just been completely oblivious this whole time. Until then, I’ll be putting on my Fleetwood Mac records and blasting Silver Springs.

relevance folk music the of

today

words by Ryan Cleland (he/him)

I am well aware folk music is not something we all have in common at Te Herenga Waka. In fact, most of us relegate the genre to old-timey banjos, and when our grandparents would reminisce on how great music was back in their day.

Whilst folk music may not be universally popular, activism is. Fighting for what is right. And activism has been intertwined with folk since its origins. Folk music is the music of the people, as it is an honest retelling of the hardships of daily life. Take for instance, New Zealand shanties about the dangerous lives of sailors; and First Nations people of North America singing against British colonial rule.

My personal experience with folk music extends to late last year when I had the honour to speak to Garnet Rogers, a Canadian folk singer-songwriter, and the brother of late Canadian folk legend, Stan Rogers. In my discussions with him, I aimed to glean insight into how the activism demonstrated by his and Stan’s music can serve as examples for the challenges we currently face.

A Short Intro to Stan and Garnet

Stan Rogers rose to fame in the 70’s with a flurry of folk albums, which his brother Garnet helped him record. He was hailed by Pete Seeger as one of the “most talented singers and songwriters in North America”. By the early 80’s he was a Canadian household name, and fast becoming an icon in the music industry. He was known primarily for songs about the daily lives of working people in Canada and the struggles they faced.

On June 2, 1983, everything changed when he boarded Air Canada Flight 797. Tragically, the flight experienced an in-flight fire, and upon landing at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, it erupted into a blaze, claiming the lives of 23 passengers, including Stan Rogers.

After his brother's death, Garnet Rogers continued to release folk albums until he semi-retired in 2014. He occasionally still does tours, and has also published two books.

Pōneke Shanty Club

I also met with Peter Tyson, the founder and current head of Wellington’s very own Pōneke Shanty Club in order to discuss what his thoughts were. The club started up in November of 2022 and after a few wellplaced Facebook ads, the club took off. As of April 2024 it is home to over 450 members.

The club meets regularly on the first and third Thursday of every month at The Welsh Dragon Bar. Each session they sing songs both old and new. When I visited we sang a variety of songs, from old 18th century sailing songs to brand new tunes written by fellow members celebrating Greece’s recent recognition of same-sex marriage.

Tyson said at the core of shanties is the ability to be rewritten over and over again. He told me “there is something inherently political that invites people to rewrite the shanties, I don't know what it is. It's just about songs that are bitching about the boss, the crew and the other countries”. The modern day shanties I heard at the club are exactly the kind of activism that folk music is known for. They are the perfect medium to champion the causes we believe in and make our voices heard.

Garnet seeing Bob Dylan

Finally Garnet mentioned a story which deeply resonated with me. The story was about why folk music is still so relevant, and it was the reason he became a musician.

In 1965 Garnet went to see live, at Toronto’s Massey Hall, the US Folk legend Bob Dylan. Bob Dylan began his performance with a usual acoustic set however, halfway through Dylan swapped to electric. Garnet said “the place erupted” but not in a good way, “[people] were throwing programmes, they were screaming ‘False Prophet’ and all this nonsense. And I remember … thinking this is the best thing I've ever seen. It was at that moment I wanted to be a musician”. His reasoning was not because he wanted to be the subject of fervour and stupidity, but because Dylan played the “music so earnestly, in spite of the fact people hated it.”

That's the essence of folk music—what Dylan accomplished for Garnet. It is the idea that someone will bravely tell you the truth, whether you want to hear it or not. It makes the music more important, and the message more urgent.

About this week's Artist

This week's centrefold is designed by Martha Coltman Kia ora! I’m Martha and I am a recent graduate of Vic majoring in Communication Design. My passions include graphic design, photography, and music, so I loved combining all of them in this piece. As an avid Spotify playlist maker who curates her own personal soundtracks for every emotion under the sun – including uni-life-stress induced breakdowns – I believe that Spotify stalking is the window to the soul. Being a shortie who struggles to make eye contact, I’m not looking deep into your eyes, instead I’m looking deep into your listening history – the good and the bad. So if this piece is to act as anything other than a poster for your wall, I hope it acts as a friendly reminder that it might be time for a playlist cleanse. I am always keen for a photoshoot and you can find more of my work @martha.coltman on Instagram!

Aries Taurus Gemini

Disaster can lead to self improvement. If you lose your airpods, take it as an opportunity and a sign to get some chunky headphones, they’re totally in right now.

Inner turmoil again? You need to reflect on your wants, desires and goals. How are you to move forward if you don’t know what direction to go in?

It’s okay to be overwhelmed sometimes. Whether it's work, class or the people around you, you’re dealing with some serious stress. Take the time you need, it’s okay to put yourself first.

Cancer Leo Virgo

You’ve got a difficult decision ahead of you. The line between self preservation and selfishness is thin and blurry. Remember to choose kindness whenever you can.

Things are coming to fruition and a veil is being lifted. You’ve had your suspicions about something and there's nothing more satisfying than being right.

Disappointment is a fact of life. Not every endeavour is going to lead to positive things and that's okay. If you get knocked down, you just gotta get up again .

Out with the old and in with the new. No more stewing over the same sad songs. It’s time to start a new playlist. Keep it fresh, upbeat and interesting.

Capricorn

Sleepy weepy Saturday morning? Your Spotify daylist has been reading you to filth lately. Take it as a sign you need to switch up your music taste and fast.

Have you tried communicating your feelings?

No, sending a spotify link to a song that perfectly describes your perception of a situation does not count.

Aquarius

Your biggest rival can be your own mind. You might not be living up to the expectations you set for yourself. In the nicest way possible it’s all in your head.

Libra Scorpio Sagittarius

Living a drama-free life can be nice, but also a little bit boring. Do something crazy, cause a ruckus. Shave your eyebrows, bleach your hair, who’s going to stop you?

Pisces

It’s time to revert back to a time when things were simpler. You should relive your 2020 broadway musical phase. Hamilton and Heathers are what you need right now.

I played the violin for years. My mum was my first violin teacher and when I was nine I started having lessons at school. I played all throughout high school, in community-run orchestras and ensembles, and even sat a few ABRSM grade exams.

Now my violin sits in the corner of my flat, out of tune, and covered in dust.

Why did I stop? If I’m being honest: I wasn’t happy with my progress. I’d sit in orchestra rehearsals having a personal crisis about how far behind I felt compared to the other players in my section. One day I put my violin down and didn’t pick it up again.

Being a musician is hard. In any creative scene, there’s an underlying desire to be the best, be cheered on by a loving audience in a packed venue (or respectfully applauded for those of you in the classical scene), and—let’s be honest with ourselves—afford rent prices (thanks, cost of living crisis). Maintaining passion about something when you’re also pursuing it as a degree and a career is a juggling act. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the logistical and practical side of music that I think we neglect a crucial aspect of the art form: having fun, trying new things, and selfimprovement (but in a healthy, non-competitive way).

When I sat down to talk to up-and-coming alternative band AOSI, I was struck by how their music was grounded in self-growth and developing new skills. I came out of the conversation with a redefined idea of what musical success is, and a better appreciation of personal growth. AOSI consists of rhythm guitarist/ vocalist Connor Matthew, lead guitarist Anton Parker, bassist/vocalist Dylan Jonkers, and drummer Ryan Kenton. After moving to Pōneke from different corners of Te Waipounamu to study at Massey, the members did what musicians do best—they got a jam going. What started as a thrown together performance for an O-Week talent show quickly turned into a fourpiece alternative group. Their focus is to aim for growth both as individuals and, as a band, making their name fitting; AOSI stands for Acts of Self Improvement.“The name embodied what I wanted

Navigating the Algorithm

I’m going to make a confession. I love Spotify Wrapped.

There’s a handful of constants that seem to accompany me every year as summer approaches. I’ll be seized with a desire to ‘fix’ my sleep schedule, in order to join the hoards of well-adjusted people I know to be out parading on the waterfront while I drool on a pillow. I’ll start to think about what books to buy my family this Christmas (and try to remember exactly who I have already gifted a copy of My Family and Other Animals to). I’ll also start to shake off the shackles of seasonal depression, alongside everyone else in our chilly town. It is into this milieu of people newly armed with conversational ability and something approaching enthusiasm that Spotify Wrapped tends to drop. The perfect icebreaker, a conversational tool gifted to us from the digital ether, a corporate team building exercise/musical horoscope that ensures you have something to report, no matter how uneventful your winter.

Of course, this horoscope is built on a near-alarming amount of data—and the numbers don’t lie. This is part of the fun, as Wrapped quickly becomes apparent as a sort of self-actualisation test. Nothing unexpected about your top five artists? Congratulations! Your self image is accurate, and robust. Absolutely blindsided and embarrassed by the presence of The Smiths at #3? Go to therapy!

Nowhere is this more true than in the hard figure of minutes listened, a stat that can get pretty dizzying if you’re a music junkie. As with the top 5 artists, it’s

both the number itself, and whatever gap appears between expectation and reality, that’s telling. It can be hard to see a busy, stressful year quantified as a low number on your Wrapped. There is also, I’ve discovered, an upper figure (somewhere around 120,000 minutes) where people’s reaction to your ‘score’ begins to move from admiration to something approaching concern. Wait, how many minutes?

This is all to say that, as far as the online music streaming model goes, I’m in deep. I’ve got playlists going back to Year 10, group chats that revive each year to compare top songs and genre breakdowns, a collaborative playlist for every workplace I’ve been in (shout out Coworker Music). Some facts become more apparent to me each year, however. One: there seems to be a hard limit to the range of music Spotify’s algorithm is willing to serve up—once the service has decided it ‘knows’ your taste, this decision can quickly become a prison. Thankfully, you’ve got Salient to fix that for you, in a few hundred words. God we’re good.

Alright, that damn algorithm. Happily, I’m oddly well equipped to help here, thanks to a couple of years in the trenches of Courtenay Place’s Little Waffle Shop, with access only to desktop Spotify on the till, and an endless parade of drunk revellers. It was a greasy and underpaid experience, but one that by necessity sharply honed my Spotify abilities—hearing the same cover of Harvest Moon every shift meant taking matters into my own hands. Thankfully, I can report it is possible to extract some true randomness and range from this sometimes cagey platform.

navigated by Henry Broadbent (he/him)

First stop: the search engine (desktop/web). Don’t be fooled by the explicit lack of an ‘advanced search’, because this thing has grunt. There’s a handful of modifier words you can use to change the game, making searches by genre, year, or even specific label, and combining phrases. An example: If you search “genre:house AND year:1995-1999” you’ll be greeted with a list of every song they play at Swimsuit. AND, OR and NOT all work as modifier terms. Looking for records released on Blue Note between 1985-7? Spotify has your back. Want to dig through the 1985 EMI catalogue, but you specifically don’t want any Radiohead? No worries.

Next, hold off on feeding the machine too much. If you use your ‘liked songs’ feature, consider switching instead to building a catch-all playlist for that purpose. It’s a little bit laborious, but I promise the extra mahi is worth it—Spotify seems to put an awful lot of weight on that little plus button, and if you want it to stop sending you the same song again (and again and again and again), this seems the most surefire way to achieve that.

Last of all, artist bio’s and related artists! The bio is the one part of the platform over which musicians have much sway—sometimes they’ll be written by the group, you can often find interesting context for the music down there, and they can hold links

to merch, tickets and more direct income. They’re also accompanied by a list of related artists!

Now, before you inform me that this list is no different to what the algorithm might throw at you, you’re right—to a point. The artists you might find suggested below Phoebe Bridges (Julien Baker, Big Thief, etc) are the same ones that would likely come up on an artist radio. Dig deeper, though, and you can begin to use the ‘fans also like’ section as a network. If you’ve ever played a variation on those games that encourage you to find the fastest route between two seemingly disparate Wikipedia pages, you’ll understand how rapidly you can go ‘off track’. The concept is the same, and by building a queue and moving deeper into the ‘web’ of related artists, it’s possible to find yourself listening to something the algorithm would never have served up.

Armed with some info you can keep your study playlists fresh, stay on the good side of your colleagues, and arrive next summer with a truly eclectic Wrapped to be proud of.

PS: Use Spotify as a music discovery service! Broaden your horizons! But if you find something you really like, remember: small artists get $0.00173 per stream. Buy a record, buy some merch, get the LP on bandcamp, and go to a gig!

MESSIE

IT'S ABOUT TO GET

words by Jia Sharma (she/her)

Tessa Hills (she/they), better known as MESSIE, has become the talk of the town lately, captivating both social media and live audiences with her electrifying performances. From sharing the stage with Fred Again.. at Spark Arena, to accompanying him on tour in Perth, her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Tessa describes it as if "the universe flipped a switch," marking a monumental leap in her career.

San Fran in March was an unforgettable experience— every moment filled with enthusiasm from both Tessa and the crowd.

The whirlwind collaboration with Fred Again.. has been a highlight of Tessa's career. It all began when she submitted a mix through one of Fred's Instagram stories, catching his keen interest. Their synergy was undeniable, culminating in memorable performances from the Coromandel to Perth. Tessa's journey, from entertaining crowds of 400 at Cuba Dupa to commanding audiences of 35 thousand in Perth, was described as “the biggest jump imaginable”.

Tessa's passion for music ignited at fifteen when they first picked up the drums, eventually leading her to pursue a degree in music technology at university. Her journey took off as she joined the band Girl Best Friend and honed her skills as a DJ, while living in university halls. Leveraging her band connections, she swiftly secured gigs at venues like San Fran, B.Space, and Valhalla, along with stints as a bar DJ.

Reflecting on her performance at Rhythm and Vines last year, Tessa reminisces, “It was cool cause I’m from Gisbourne, and it was just cool to go back to the hometown and play the dream festival for me when I was young”. With invitations pouring in for festivals, including those across Australia, Tessa's future is brimming with promise.

Known for their dynamic sound that blends a bit of everything from techno to jungle, Tessa's performances radiate energy and enthusiasm. Witnessing her set at

Despite the monumental leap, Tessa remains remarkably composed, saying “I just knew that I had been preparing my whole life for this”. Watching clips of her in Perth, one can't help but admire her composure and confidence.

For those craving a unique blend of "weird drums with funny gay singalongs" (and who wouldn't?), MESSIE's upcoming gigs are not to be missed. With demand soaring, I’m sure we won't have to wait long. Witnessing a Wellington artist's meteoric rise is truly inspiring, and the overwhelming support for Tessa's success speaks volumes. As they continue to line up gigs and offers, I'll be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to catch her live again.

MESSIE

their art in a disingenuous way; PC Music as critics, rather than appreciators of pop culture trying to contribute to it in a new and fresh way.

Regardless of this (mis)interpretation, PC Music and their many collaborators would go on to influence the culture over their lifespan. Their impact can be seen in the genre explosion of hyperpop (made famous by 100 gecs or Dorian Electra), which PC Music essentially spearheaded. But it doesn’t just stop there… Let me introduce you to some of the label's key figures and affiliates, and explore how their unique sounds and personalities have made their way into some of pop’s most celebrated circles.

A. G. Cook SOPHIE

The label’s founder, Cook’s fingerprints are found on a good 75% of things that came out of PC Music. A record producer,

songwriter and solo artist, his sound is defined by distinctly twinkly and glistening synths, as well as harsh and metallic silver electronic sound design. Recently, he was described by his close collaborator Charli XCX as “the chord god”. He’s lent his signature touch to uplift the work of labelmate Hannah Diamond, as well as XCX and Caroline Polachek. Cook has since been found on projects by megastars like Beyoncé and Troye Sivan, as well as well-respected indie veterans like Jónsi, of Sigur Rós’ fame. He even helped to write and produce the theme song to Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, performed by J-pop legend Hikaru Utada.

While never officially signed to the label, SOPHIE is arguably the person that revolutionised PC Music’s sound. Remaining anonymous for many years, she beautifully introduced herself to the world as a trans woman in 2017. Much of her music explored themes of identity, love, and sensuality. SOPHIE’s defining sonic characteristics were her rubbery and plastic sounding electronics, massive bass, and sparkly synths. Across her career, she worked with the likes of Madonna, Vince Staples and Kendrick Lamar, always uplifting the voices of smaller artists and friends she believed in along the way. SOPHIE tragically passed away in January 2021, but her legacy and inspiration lives on through her close collaborators, and other admirers of her truly innovative music.

true to her ethos, Charli’s presence in the music industry has paved the way for the next generation of pop artists, with many fresh new names in the scene citing Charli as an inspiration, such as Magdalena Bay.

Hannah Diamond was and always will be PC Music’s pop princess. Outside of being a singer, Hannah works also as a photographer and visual artist, meaning every inch of her essence is meticulously crafted by herself. Acutely girly, she presents herself with hyperperfection. From her sweetly innocent yet flawless and digitised vocals, to her glossy and ultra-polished visual touch, Hannah Diamond proudly builds herself on thorough futurism and digitalness. Over the years, she’s photographed the likes of Alexia Demie, Migos’ Offset, as well as fellow hyperpop icons Charli XCX, Kim Petras, Bladee and Ecco2k. Some hold a Hannah Diamond photoshoot in the highest regard: an opulent stamp of approval in the visual world.

Hannah Diamond Caroline Polachek

Greatly inspired by the exuberant energy of Eurohouse, vocal trance and happy hardcore, Danny L Harle was PC Music’s resident silly guy. Just wait until you find out he’s classically trained too… You can sometimes hear twinges of harpsichord-esque synths in amongst his definitively HUGE production style! It’s absolutely magnetic, so it’s easy to see how he drew some pretty big collaborations early on from the likes of Carly Rae Jepsen and Clairo. Harle would also strike a major collaborative partnership with Caroline Polachek, and has co-produced both of her studio albums alongside herself. Since this, Harle has worked with a wild array of artists: PinkPantheress, Rina Sawayama, Liam Gallagher (???), and he’s also co-produced Dua Lipa’s upcoming album with Tame Impala, as well as co-penning the UK’s entry into EuroVision this year!

Polachek has had an extensive career in the music industry. Originally hailing from indie duo Chairlift, she has a wholly unique star quality about her: from her operatic and seemingly endless vocal register, to her plucky and bewitching production style. Need proof of it? Look no further than Beyoncé reaching out to her to produce a track for her self-titled 2013 album. Polachek became aware of PC Music around 2016 and continues to work closely with the large majority of artists signed to the label to this day. Thanks to Caroline’s critical darling album from last year, Desire, I Want To Turn Into You, a lot of heads were turned towards PC Music’s innovative ideologies on pop.

The label may be dormant now, but that does not mean it’s dead. I’d argue they’re more alive than ever! It’s clear to see just how much the effervescent sounds of PC Music have bled into the mainstream. In terms of what’s coming next, we have the Danny L Harle-produced Dua Lipa album on May 3rd, a new Charli XCX album June 7th, as well as A. G. Cook’s new triple album out May 10th! PC Music breathed fresh perspective into pop music, proving its worth and continued potential. I am eternally grateful for what they have provided to the music industry at large, and their innovative imprint will not soon be forgotten. PC Music forever <3

REVIEW: Crumbly Jack

reviewed by Guy van Egmond (he/him) | Venue: Valhalla

Author’s confession: I know Eden Brown, the band’s lead singer.

I’ll be the first to admit that I critically undervalued CubaDupa this year, I barely spent more than an afternoon roaming the festival. That said, I think I lucked out when I ducked into Valhalla to check out Crumbly Jack.

The four-piece band charmed in their 30-minute slot, drawing in a constant stream of people from the post-lunch street crowds. They played a lineup of mostly unreleased material with a great multi-genre flow: it definitely had strong roots in jazz performance (which was how the band first met), but branched off into wonderful blends of R&B, soul, and funk. Eden Brown’s strong, velvety vocals evoked Jill Scott and Erykah Badu (whose Penitentiary Philosophy the band covered brilliantly), and they were backed up by a strong trio of instrumentalists. Louis Holland was captivating as a drummer who seemed completely distracted, but played with such delicacy and care. Jack Harris’ bass served as a strong backbone to the

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Formal consultation on our 2024–34 Long-term Plan is open until 12 May.

band and had the whole Valhalla floor grooving, while Theo Thompson delivered fantastic guitar solos you could get lost in.

The band’s unreleased songs—Dragonfly, Snowman, Simon and Affirmations—were all built on welldesigned riffs, coming back to the same cycles that were so nice to listen to. Their lyrics are catchy and poetically narrative, with the charm of a young band but plenty of maturity and self-respect. The band as whole definitely draws from the long history of jazz and R&B, but keeps it fresh and unique with their own, homegrown and street-honed sound.

With a successful single and an EP already released in 2022, Crumbly Jack’s new material bodes for a future on the up and up again. They spent the summer playing on tour with Skram and Marmalade, and in Feb they opened for Will McLean and Casual Healing (check out Jia’s interview with Casual Healing too!). They’re more and more to be found at San Fran, Meow and now Valhalla; if they’re on the set list, go check it out!

Do we introduce Council wheelie bins for rubbish and organics, to reduce landfill waste?

How much do we spend on fixing the pipes?

Do we sell our airport shares to help manage insurance and investment risk?

MEAL STEALS CUBA ST

Served by Bianca Maria Schioler (she/her)

Kia ora tātou and welcome back to another season of Meal Steals which your StudyLink budget won’t kick up a fuss about.

On today’s menu we’re going to take a trip to the famous Cuba Street, well known to any Wellingtonian as the street for excellent food and creative expression. Sadly, Covid-19 saw the closure of many iconic Cuba Street restaurants, and only a few new ones have popped up in their place in the following years. However, we can contribute to making Cuba Street the same vibrant, cultural-mixing glass of culinary excellence it once was by taking to the streets, and filling our tummies.

Unfortunately, for people on a budget it can be pretty difficult to navigate the over-priced, fine-dining and mid-level, still-way-too-fucking-expenny restaurants when we’re looking for a place to eat out with some friends. So, having “sacrificed” my stomach and my wallet for some much-needed research, I bring to you (in no particular order) the top 10 most affordable, quality restaurants on Cuba Street and what to expect from your budget-dining experience.

1. Ram’s Restaurant

This little hidden Chinese restaurant was an excellent discovery I made on a late Friday date night, out of pure chance, when all the other restaurants were closing or full. While it’s not much to look at, the food is truly excellent and the prices are what they used to be ten years ago when our parents would take us out to dinner for special occasions. The portion sizes were generous, and we shared a main and a starter between two people, which was more than enough and didn’t cost more than $25 each.

2. Aunty Mena’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Cafe

Right next door, Aunty Mena is bustling and full, and I know why. A fully vegetarian and vegan restaurant, the prices reflect this. Here, with just $15 you can fill up on yummy Malaysian meat-free meals!

3. 1154 Pastaria

Depending on when you visit, 1154 Pastaria can be a good option for some cheap, filling and delicious food. If you’re an early diner, head down here from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm for $12 pasta on select sauces. While you can probably make pasta at home for less, unless you’re Italian I doubt it’ll taste as good as this one!

4. JJ Murphy’s

A crowd favourite, the good old Irish Pub. JJ’s has daily deals which make it worth a visit on your evening trawl for places to eat on Cuba. These include 2-for1 burgers on Saturday nights, $1 chicken wings on Friday nights and 2-for-1 mains on Monday. In addition, you get to enjoy the amazing atmosphere and live music on Friday nights! A must-visit if you haven’t already.

5. Abrakebabra

More of a takeaway than a restaurant but well-known for its extra large portion sizes for the standard price of a kebab. If you don’t eat much, one kebab will last you two meals! There’s a little lounge in the back where you can sit and enjoy the turkish-style dining experience. Super quality fresh ingredients, and the falafel here is really top notch.

6. Satay Kingdom Cafe

Very simple locale in Cuba Mall serving Malaysian cuisine. There’s some outdoor seating so it's really nice on a sunny evening or for a lunch out. Most mains are around $20, tasty and decent portion sizes.

7. Kisa

This “new” Turkish restaurant on the corner of Cuba and Vivian Street has been full each time I’ve been past. Because of this I haven’t eaten there yet, but judging from how popular it is and the stellar reviews, the food is high quality. Having scoured the menu, it’s got decent mid-range prices, and the mezze lunch platter for $23 seems like a great sharing option if you’re not too hungry but looking for a nice modern locale serving quality, fresh produce.

8. Flying Burrito Brothers

This Mexican restaurant is an icon in Cuba Street dining, and was one of the first places I visited as a teenager dining out with friends. I couldn’t make a Cuba Street dining guide without mentioning it, and while it’s a bit pricey it’s really got something for everyone. The locale has a really authentic feel and the food is just 10/10.

9. Scopa

While famous for its creamy hot chocolates, Scopa is also a good option for what we call “aperitivo” in Italian. This is when you go out with friends and instead of eating dinner you drink alcohol and have some small bites to sustain you. If you want to get drunk in a classy way, this is the spot. They also have $10 margherita pizzas on Tuesdays from 11.30am - 2.30pm!

10. Old Quarter (Asian fusion) (Bao buns for $6-$9)

Asian fusion fans, this is your place. Fantastic for sharing small bites (but be careful, the bill racks up pretty quick!). If you’re very price-conscious they also have bao buns for $6-$9.

Hopefully this guide will help you keep within budget on your next night out with friends or family. Coming up in the next edition of Salient I will be speaking to the readers who love their take-out. In keeping with this week’s theme, I will review the best takeaway spots in and around Cuba Street, for your late-night cravings.

RECIPE: Luxury Drunk-Night Mouse Traps

4 portions Cost per portion: $2.10 (VG) $3.15 (with ham)

INGREDIENTS

• 4 slices of vogel’s bread

• 1 ½ cups grated cheese

• 1 fresh tomato, diced

• 4 button mushrooms, sliced

• 1 egg

• 200g thick ham slices, diced (optional)

• Handful of chopped parsley to garnish

• Salt and pepper

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. On a baking tray lay out the bread slices.

2. In a bowl mix all the ingredients. Spoon evenly onto the slices of bread. 3. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown, and serve.

You can prepare the mix (minus the egg) before you head out for a big night and leave it in the fridge. If you’re sober enough to safely operate the oven (or even better, airfryer) when you get home, crack the egg into the mix, grill and enjoy. Sober you will thank you tomorrow!

WAIATA REO MĀORI

Nestled in the emerald embrace of the South Pacific, New Zealand pulsates with a musical heartbeat that echoes the rhythm of its rich cultural tapestry. Embark on a journey where the electrifying fusion of Te Reo Māori and contemporary melodies ignites a symphony of sound that's impossible to resist. Prepare to be captivated as we explore the fascinating influence of Māori music on the dynamic tunes of Aotearoa.

Step into the world of Māori music, where every note tells a story of heritage, resilience, and celebration. From the rugged coastlines to the majestic mountains, New Zealand's music scene is a kaleidoscope of diversity, reflecting the waves of cultures that call this island nation home. At the helm of this musical voyage is Te Reo Māori. With its lyrical cadence and profound cultural significance, it weaves through melodies like a thread, adding depth and authenticity to the music. It's more than just words; it's a connection to the land, the ancestors, and the spirit of Aotearoa.

We are now in a time where we can witness the resurgence of Māori music on the global stage, fuelled by a new generation of artists. This new cohort are pushing boundaries and breaking barriers with their innovative sounds and fearless creativity.

We have had the amazing Dalvanius Prime, who helped spearhead Te Reo Māori in pop music with his hit song “Poi E”, performed by the Pātea Māori Club. “Poe E” reached heights we had never seen before, and from then on we’ve had chart-topping successes. From artists like Stan Walker and Maisey Rika to the boundary-pushing experimentation of groups like WAI.TAI and Alien Weaponry, Māori

musicians are carving out their own place in the world of music, infusing mainstream culture with the unmistakable spirit of Aotearoa.

From the haunting strains of traditional Waiata that echo through the valleys, to the pulsating rhythms of contemporary Māori hip-hop, pop and rock that reverberate through the streets, Māori music spans across genres and generations, captivating audiences with its authenticity and vitality.

New Zealand's music scene is a testament to the country's commitment to diversity and inclusion. It's a place where artists from all walks of life come together to share their stories, celebrate their differences, and spread joy through the universal language of music. Whether you're a local or a visitor, everyone is invited to join the fun and experience the magic of New Zealand's music scene.

In a world where diversity is celebrated and innovation knows no bounds, Māori music shines as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the enduring spirit of Aotearoa. So immerse yourself. Let the captivating melodies of Te Reo Māori sweep you off your feet and transport you to a land where every note is a celebration of life, love, and the spirit of Aotearoa. Get ready to groove to the beat like never before!

Arohanui and may the music never stop!

Noho ora mai, Shay McEwan

Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki, Te Whanau a Kai, Ngāti Pāhauwera

NZPC

Red flags for sugardating

and anyone else doing hookups for cash over Snapchat, Grindr, Insta etc

Cherida Fraser (she/her)

Sugaring rights are sex workers’ rights and sex workers’ rights are human rights—so if you are hooking up for cash, or UberEats, or handbags, or gym memberships, or rent or anything else, you have rights!

The Prostitution Reform Act (2003) supports human rights and safer sex practices, and sugaring is absolutely covered by this legislation. So even if you don’t think of yourself as a sex worker, as a sugarbaby you are protected.

Firstly, it is our human right to refuse or withdraw sexual consent and this is reinforced in the PRA. You don’t have to do any sexy thing you don’t want to, regardless of what you may have agreed to prior. And you don’t have to give any reason either. No one can say “but you agreed, that’s contract law” Human rights supersede contract law.

Clients of full service sex workers sometimes move to apps to seek out less prescribed arrangements. But that can be a red flag. Unsolicited offers on social media can be tempting, but beware that there may be identifying and personal information available to the sugardaddy through your regular profile. Sometimes we get reports that sugardaddies have used personal information to try and extort sex, or have threatened to out sugarbabies to their family if they don’t keep seeing them. Consider setting up a unique sugaring profile which protects your private information.

Sugaring clients might say “you’re so hot, I can’t wait, I need to see you right now” and lay it on thick. This can be very complimentary and feel good, but can also be a red flag for boundary pushing once the sex begins. Making hurried decisions can also leave us off guard—we might forget to text our safety person with our plans, or even just forget to chuck those condoms in our bag.

If they are “very relaxed about what happens” or want to take time for you to get to know each other, this can be a way of dragging things out for minimal financial investment. It can also be a tactic to avoid explicit conversations about what you are prepared to do, and what you’re not. It could be sensible to say something like “I’d feel comfortable and safe with you if we discussed expectations and boundaries ahead of meeting up”. If they don’t want to, it’s a red flag for sure.

JOJOJOJOJOJOJOJOJO CROSSWORD

crossword made by Siwa

ACROSS

1 Jojo Siwa's nickname on Dance Moms

5 Jojo's Australian Crush (crocodile man)

10 The TV show that made Jojo Siwa famous (not the first TV show she was on)

12 The name of Jojo Siwa's controversial dance group

14 Who choreographed the "Karma" dance?

15 "Jojo! have you learned ______?"

17 "Karma is a ____"

19 Mothers name

20 Jojo Siwa's star sign

DOWN

1 Jojo's Full Name

2 Jojo's most recent ex, Tik Tok famous.

3 How old is Jojo Siwa?

4 "I should have _____ better"

6 Just released their own "Karma" music video

7 Song title released on the 5th of April

8 What character was Jojo Siwa on The Masked Singer?

9 Jojo Siwa's 2016 released song. Australian coded.

11 "Theres __ such thing as stealing"

13 Jojo's dogs name

16 The week Jojo Siwa was eliminated from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition

18 Body part of the plushy she bought outside adult store

PUZZLES

Which country is brie cheese originally from?

In what franchise would you find the character Katniss Everdeen?

What does Hakuna Matata mean?

What is the capital of Iceland?

What year did Margaret Thatcher die?

bird search

Maze Puzzle

DOWN

1. Teenage witch Spellman; American singer and actress Carpenter (7)

2. Sets of golf clubs numbered 2-9, used after teeing off (5)

3. Morally (9)

4. American pop, soul and jazz-fusion band Earth, Wind & ___ (4)

5. Expressive hairs below the forehead (8)

6. Four-wheeled vehicle for transporting goods or people (3)

7. Capital city of Kenya (7)

8. Precious stone; American singer known for ‘Foolish Games’ and ‘Who Will Save Your Soul’ (5)

15. Custom or belief passed through generations (9)

16. Worships, reveres, adulates (8)

18. Exercise ‘with oxygen’ (7)

20. Group of muscles in the buttocks (7)

21. Flower that produces opium, and is worn for ANZAC Day (5)

24. Surname of Beatles’ drummer Ringo (5)

26. Element Zn (4)

28. Acronym acknowledging a debt (1,1,1)

ACROSS

1. Da da da (boom boom) (5,2,6)*

9. Woodcutting tool (3)

10. Male sibling (7)*

11. Boredom, dissatisfaction (5)

12. Narrator from ‘Euphoria’; District 11 girl in ‘The Hunger Games’ (3)

13. Bug (6)

14. Small cave; where Santa can be visited? (6)

17. Helped; benefitted someone (7)

19. Marine mammal hunting that ended in NZ in 1964 (7)*

22. Queens, Kings, Princes, for example (6)*

23. Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-___ (6)

25. Surname of Yoko (3)

27. Ecstasy, serenity (5)*

29. To do an impression of (7)

30. Unit of measurement of pressure (1,1,1)

31. Car system that maintains a chosen speed (6,7)*

WORD SCRAMBLE

How many words (of three letters or more) can you make from these letters (according to the Scrabble UK dictionary)?

Good: 9 | Very Good: 15 |

17+

podcasts.

with Speaker of the House Teddy O'Neill (he/it/ia)

If you've listened to Miss Taylor Swift's new album in it's entirety, first of all, well done. Second of all, tune into this week's Salient Podcast for more Swifty content. This week Teddy is joined by Music Editor Jia, Groove Garden's Xavier, and VUWSA's Hana to discuss all things music and activism.

" (Unintelligible arguing about Taylor Swift from Will and Teddy. This goes on for a few minutes and gets a bit loud, sorry about that!) "

Salient Unedited This week, Teddy, Jia and Will talk the music issue! Taylor Swift's new album, folk-punk and holy rapper beef, Batman!

"I would watch the terrible quality recordings of *NSYNC concerts on YouTube and think wow... this is real music."

Arts & Culture This week, Teddy talks to Xavier, the writer of our Groove Garden column, on a longer-than-usual episode about the horrors of the music industry, how T-Pain revolutionised autotune, and Teddy's unrivalled love for *NSYNC!

"American Civil war or CAPTAIN AMERICA Civil War?"

VUWSA Unedited Teddy talks to VUWSA's Engagement VP Hana, about what she does and how she can help you with your activism!

Find all of our podcasts on Spotify!

SALIENT TEAM 2024

Third Row: Ngan Dang (she/they, Staff Writer Intern) ; Monisha Dahya (she/her, Podcast Intern) ; Darcy Lawrey (he/him, Online & News Intern) ; Prunella Prunella Azzahra (she/her, Design Intern) ; Ceder Porteous (she/her, Staff Writer Intern) ; Phoebe's Dog

Second Row: Office Ghost (she/her) ; Phoebe Robertson (she/her, Editor) ; Te Huihui Tran (he/him, Te Ao Māori Co-Editor) ; Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (she/her, Te Ao Māori Co-Editor) ; M&M (Ash's cat) ; Guy van Egmond (he/him, Contributing Writer) ; Jia Sharma (she/her, Music Editor) ; Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds (she/her, Staff Writer) ; Henry Broadbent (he/him, Sub-Editor)

Front Row: Teddy O'Neill (he/it/ia, Speaker of the House) ; Ava O'Brien (she/her, Distributor) ; Ethan Rogacion (he/him, News Co-Editor) ; Dan Moskovitz (he/him, Chief Reporter) ; Will Irvine (he/him, News Co-Editor) ; Kate Seager (she/her, Designer)

This week's comic artist: @flying.foxes.ink

Partying?

Top tips for keeping yourself well if you’re using alcohol or other drugs.

Look after your body and mind

Eat a meal, hydrate and be well rested before a big night.

Know what your drugs are

Do your research and get your drugs checked to find out what's really in them. Drug checking is free, legal and anonymous.

Start low and go slow

Start with a low dose and wait at least an hour to feel the effects before deciding to take more. The more of a drug you take, the more likely you are to experience unpleasant effects or overdose.

Every trip is different

How drugs affect you will be different depending on your body, your mood and your environment.

Safe sex and consent are key

Some drugs can make you horny. It’s important to get an enthusiastic yes and to protect yourself and others from STIs.

Avoid mixing

Mixing drugs (including alcohol and medications) changes the effects and the risks. Use a drug interaction chart to find out what to expect.

Have a plan

Think about how you want your night to go and what you'll do if things go wrong. Know how you’re getting home and look after your mates.

Check in

The next day, check in on the people you were with and talk about your experiences.

For more info, head to