Music Industry News

Inspired by music and filmmaking in equal parts, ADV’s passion for artistry knows no limits. The debut project Trust Issues explores deeply human reflections on trust and failing relationships, as well as relaying the highs and lows of personal growth in a refreshingly captivating, sensual yet sensitive manner.

Born in South Africa and creating out of Aotearoa, New Zealand, ADV hits the scene with a clear sense of identity and purpose. The established sound and visual aspects of ‘Trust Issues’ ring loud, and with eight music videos to support the launch, ADV connects the dots between deeply moving songwriting, ethereal production, and the importance of sharing more queer stories and experiences.

Released on 2 February 2024, the eclectic songs of ‘Trust Issues’ fuse elements of Soul, RnB, Pop and Funk, across a rich tapestry of design flowing with equal parts uncertainty and fun. The likes of ‘Just Tryna Be’ lift the mood with a strong groove and falsetto front-line, while ‘Shimmer’ adds an infectious hook and a powerful unity between dance and a gospel-choir warmth.

Elsewhere singles like ‘Sweater Song’ dig into relationship turmoil with fearless vulnerability, and the leading single ‘Do It Over’ strips things back to the bare essentials of piano, voice and story – before evolving into an uplifting anthem of celebration and optimism.

Far from purely a solo endeavour, collaboration was key in bringing Trust Issues to life, with an extensive list of additional musicians, performers and creatives helping craft and edit the visual journey. The full visual album experience will release on 14th March 2024, alongside a zine called ‘The Trust Issue’, designed by Lulu Qiu, featuring work from a collection of photographers, as well as lyrics, credits, a poetic letter from ADV, and a foreword by renowned poet and playwright Nathan Joe.

Check out all things ADV below:

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Photo credit: Alex Judd