Image: Danni Bishara
New Zealand Māori artist TEEKS has just released his new single First Time. Taken from his forthcoming debut album Something To Feel, the track harks back to the soul-infused sounds explored on his debut EP The Grapefruit Skies.
“Coming into this new album, writing about myself and how I am navigating my emotions internally, and the whole ocean of what that is, I have always tried to suppress so much of me,” says Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi (Ngāpuhi, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui). “This is a story about maturity and growth as a person. A coming of age.”
Something To Feel showcases twelve emotional songs about love, self-knowledge and vulnerability, overall challenging the ideas and encompassing the idea of moving forward, embracing something new. Written and produced by the musician with acclaimed producer and engineer Simon Gooding, the introspective release is set to tackle themes of masculinity and embracing the duality of Te Ao Māori, the worldview of his indigenous people. The release of TEEKS’ singles over the past six months have proved to be moments that offer emotional comfort in turbulent times.
The album is available to pre-save now on all streaming platforms. Fans who pre-order any CD, standard black or limited edition gold vinyl will receive their products signed by TEEKS himself. Pre-order and save Something To Feel here.
Something To Feel is out March 26. Listen to First Time below.