Minaret

Min•a•ret [min-uh-ret]
Noun - a vantage point used to speak to ones people.

Music is a means of communication. This is the philosophy Minaret was founded on, a live interaction between band and audience where a shared path is travelled. Through this idea their music has developed and evolved into a universal studio and dance floor experience. The up and comers, Minaret, are fusing this experience to a future New Zealand sound incorporating NZ Dub, Dubstep, Soul, Drum and Bass, Funk, Electronica and House. This results in surreal keys and guitar sampling layered over earth shattering bass, beastly drum grooves and soulful vocals.
This three piece band formed in July 2011 and has been making music for people all over the country with people all over the country. From Wanaka/Queenstown to Auckland, Minaret has played to packed crowds embracing an innovative live show. Currently working on a studio album, they have been busy bring their music to listeners in their homes with their forthcoming single ‘Heavies’ featuring the powerful vocals of celebrated Wellington-based artist Imon Starr (Olmecha Supreme/Rhombus/The Eggs/Hollie Smith). Other collaborative artists include noted Soul Singer Carlos Navae (Carlos Navae Trio/Carlos Navae Band/Son Clave/Bohemian Thought), experimental hip hop duo Sidechained Lovers and up and coming singer Jess Jones with many making frequent guest appearances during shows.
The current core members consist of Micah Livesay, Ricky Simmonds and Te Atawhai Ponga. With roots as a bedroom guitarist and producer, Micah is the body of Minaret, responsible for synth programming, guitar and resampling. From the age of 13 he has been producing internationally recognised electronic music, having his first record release at the age of 14 on Reuben Keeny’s UK-based label Localized Records. Micah is also one half of the post-genre duo Sidechained Lovers currently working on their debut studio album with interest from the likes of L.A-based label Alpha Pup.
Ricky Simmonds provides the backbone of Minaret, solid as a rock and groovy as hell. With experience in groups ranging from jazz to rock to electronic his versatility gives this band the beats it needs. Fresh out of an ethnomusicology major and offers from Berkeley Collage of Music on the doorstep, his talent is well recognised.

Te Atawhai Ponga is a noted Wellington bass guitarist, who performs in Olmecha Supreme, The Dreamers and other groups involved in the local and national scene. Fresh out of a NZSM Jazz Performance Bass degree, he provides low frequencies in the Minaret equation.
Minaret holds the collective aim to pervade the living world that surrounds and inspires them as musicians to create new and fresh sounds through our process of creation, collaboration and quality high energy performance.