‘The Eighth Note’ is 8 quick Questions with Wellington Musicians.
A chance for us to catch up with people & see what they’re up to, or introduce you to a new musician/band and their music.
Today’s guest is Iraia Whakamoe, drummer for The Nudge.
Who are you? Tell us a bit about your music:
Kia ora, my name is Iraia Whakamoe. I am a drummer originally from Hastings HB, of Tuhoe descent. This year marks my 10th year living and playing in Wellington.
I’ve been fortunate enough to play alongside some amazing musicians here, but my main outlet is with The Nudge. We are a 3 piece psychedelic rock outfit that fits into blues, desert rock, krautrock vibes.
What have you been working on lately? Any new tracks or albums on the way?
This summer saw me playing drums for The Nudge, Ria hall, Fly My Pretties, and alongside Fat Freddys Drop for their main show of their 2018 shows. This schedule coupled with my day job (Weta Digital) and family life doesn’t leave too much time elsewhere to be honest. There will be some new music this year that I will feature on, but at this stage I’ll keep that low key.
Where is the best place people can follow you & find your music?
What were the 3 most influential albums to you growing up?
Hmmm, great question, I think I’d prefer artists then albums.
I was lucky to have a dad that loved music, and had a massive vinyl collection.
Jimi Hendrix Experience : Are you Experienced : Axis Bold as Love :
Jimi Hendrix : Band of Gypsies
Bob Marley : Legend the best of (1984 release)
The Beatles : Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band
Which other Wellington musician (s) would you most like to work with?
So many amazing musicians here in this city. I remember when I turned up 10 years ago, all I could see was drummers and musicians I could have only ever dreamed of and now in many ways, I am honoured to share the stage or in fact play with so many of these cats. Huge special mention here to my brother Sage Kamaru for always believing in me. Some of the heaviest jams I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing have been with Sage.
What’s your favourite Wellington venue to play in?
Id have to say there are so many amazing venues here, but for me you can’t fault San Fran. Seriously amazing hospitality, production and vibe. Big Up Ziggy, Tim and Bernie.
In your songwriting or composing (or the band’s songwriting) how do the compositions and songs take shape?
It depends on the collaboration at hand, but generally with The Nudge, Ryan often comes with a demo or an idea and then we slowly craft those ideas out, both within the studio and live environments. It’s about finding what ticks for the vibe amongst ourselves but also how its transpires to the audience.
Other collabs are far different in process, where I enter the song stage where most all ideas are there or at least a solid version of the arrangement has been found. I then proceed to play along and see if something clicks, that makes everyone feel *that spot!
Where/when is your next gig?
Um, I think early April, now summer has been done. The Nudge will be performing at the new school of Massey as both James and Ryan have been working there for the last few years on the build and also in the classroom.