Music Industry News

Tavita & Bay Road have today released their funk and soul-filled debut single ‘Lay it Down’ – and it’s something to get excited about!

Taking you on a well-driven rhythmic ride, ‘Lay it Down’ is upbeat and funky, with shades of “hope and despair” delivered by impressive vocalist and lead-man Tavita De Seymour.

After a hiatus from the music scene, Tavita & Bay Road is an explosive return for the former frontman of Wellington band Weave. Hailing from the multicultural city of Porirua, Tavita draws inspiration from his Samoan and Pakeha heritage, the beautiful surrounds of Titahi Bay, family, and his experiences as a mental health practitioner. Over a two-year period, Tavita has worked closely with Bay Road pulling from the well of reggae, soul, funk, blues and folk music, and influenced by the likes of Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, John Coltrane, Jimi Hendrix, and Neil young.

This new release, ‘Lay it Down’ has a strong story guiding it, which Tavita explains: “It’s about a traditional family that appears normal from the outside but is imploding from the inside. Each family member is struggling with issues such as addiction, loneliness, debt, and getting mixed up with the wrong crowd. Some have found hope in love and inner peace, whilst others have a way to go.”

Tavita says that the song is for anyone who likes a wide variety of music, especially an old-school funk and soul vibe. Recorded at Wellington’s Surgery Studios with producer / engineer Toby Lloyd and mastered by Mike Gibson, Tavita says ‘Lay it Down’ is an “introduction to the sound and soul of Tavita & Bay Road.”

Also being released today is a new AI music video created by Hollowfate. “I wanted an old school, urban setting for the song,” explains Tavita, “New York just seemed like the perfect backdrop to the vibe and style of the song and I wanted to depict the story of a dysfunctional family as described in the lyrics. I also wanted the redemptive qualities of love and inner peace to come through, as that is an important aspect of the song too. We also threw in a few pics of the band performing at one of our favourite Wellington venues – The Library – and pics of us at Titahi Bay. The way the AI programme morphed the photos of the band made us laugh!”

Tavita & Bay Road regularly perform at some of Wellington’s finest venues, have plans for a tour + more new music – including a debut EP – so press play now on ‘Lay it Down’ and watch this space!

Check out all things Tavita & Bay Road below:
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