New Zealand’s very own Drax Project has taken the music world by storm, from humble beginnings as buskers to becoming arena fillers (supporting the likes of Ed Sheeran, Lorde, and Camilla Cabello) with their unique pop RnB sound. Celebrating the release of their newest single “Atmosphere” the band is excited to take their music to even greater heights.
The new single, co-written with Ferras (Katy Perry, Dua Lipa) was co-produced by Cory Enemy (Elle Goulding, Carly Rae Jepsen), Drax Project, and Neil MacLeod (AACACIA) and mixed by Grammy-winning engineer Tom Norris (Lady Gaga, The Weeknd), features the band’s biggest hooks and soaring melodies to date. “Atmosphere” was written in Los Angeles in 2019 but has taken on a new meaning over time. It reflects the band’s message of knowing one’s abilities, picking oneself up, and realizing one’s potential when life knocks you down, especially during the pandemic. “We obviously had no idea what the world had in store for everyone when we wrote this song. After 3 years of a lot of peoples’ dreams being somewhat grounded, it feels like an optimistic world is coming back. It finally feels like the right time to release this song” explain the band.
The accompanying video by acclaimed Australian director Josh Harris (Sia, Troye Sivan, Charli XCX) is charmingly uplifting and inspiring. “We had a great time making this video with Josh, Giulia and the team! Faltering flying Shaan was a really fun concept to execute, while also speaking to the theme of the song and the collective experience of the last few years” say the band.
The band’s self-titled debut album achieved great success with “Catching Feelings” and “Woke Up Late” receiving global accreditations, including US RIAA Gold and over 20 platinum accreditations across Australasia. Their collaboration with New York Neo-soul group Phony Ppl on “Catching Feelings” became a hit in the US RnB radio top 40 for much of 21/22.
Drax Project has created an incredible buzz around their music, captivating fans and media champions around the world with their infectious sound and dynamic live shows. As Billboard notes, “Drax Project knows how to put on a show, with four-part harmonies, funky pop beats and a whole lot of charm.” Earmilk calls their R&B-infused pop “catchy, upbeat tracks perfect for summer listening,” while TMRW Magazine praises their “eclectic mix of pop, R&B and jazz with seamless harmonies and irresistible hooks.”
The band has kept moving, perfecting their musical craft and artistic identity, which is evident in their upcoming sophomore album slated for release later in the year. With a positive and optimistic message in their music, Drax Project are also excited to be releasing through global giants EMI Music Australia and Avex and are set to make 2023 a year to remember.