OdESSA is coming up from Wellington to play at The Yard Cafe on June 21st. Jacqui talks to band member Paul Mouncey to find out more.
Can you please introduce your band and describe your sound?
OdESSA are largely made up of four members: Paul Mouncey on bass, Thomas Friggens on drums, Chris Armour on guitar and Matthew Pender on vocals.
The sound is funky rock, soul, with a bit of country and blues.
When did you form and where have you mainly played?
OdESSA formed in Wellington in 2002 and released three albums: Oak Park Avenue (2005), The Prize (2007) and Bring Me The Head of Pepe Lopez (a 2010 posthumous compilation of b-sides and rarities after the band first split up in 2009).
Oak Park Avenue made a big splash when released, jack-knifing into the national top ten album chart with its big single Bring The Money Back.
OdESSA became one of the country’s most acclaimed live acts, playing big events such as the Big Day Out festival, the red carpet premiere of Peter Jackson’s King Kong, as well as winning awards such as Best Indie Video for their song Promises, Promises at the 2006 Juice TV ceremony.
In 2009 the band members parted ways after a sold-out national tour to travel and focus on other projects.
Pender and Mouncey revived the group in 2021. A recording of a brand new album is underway for release later in the year.
What can locals expect if they come along?
High energy performances, dancing and fun. Front man Matthew Pender is a high-energy entertainer and the musicians are exceptional.
The other bands are funky instrumental group Snakebone from Wellington and Hamilton’s brilliant, bound-for-glory Pineja.
Why did you choose Raglan and why are you looking forward to the gig here?
We’ve never been before! We’ve always wanted to and so many bands we know rave about their Raglan experience and The Yard in particular as a brilliant venue. We’re super excited!
When are you playing and where?
June 21st at The Yard Music Bar and Cafe.
