The Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) is going laid-back this April, when Kiwi music collective LEISURE joins the orchestra for a one-off gig at Auckland Town Hall.
LEISURE’s signature blend of RnB, soul and pop music will receive a new symphonic styling on 6 April in the first of APO’s new Session Series, Hallertau Brewery presents: LEISURE and APO. The five-piece Auckland band will be performing all their own hits plus new songs reimagined with full orchestral arrangements by Claire Cowan and Hamish Oliver.
With more than 25 million streams worldwide and sold out headline shows to their name, LEISURE has established itself as a band whose music is as easy-going as their name suggests, with tracks laden with bluesy vibes and gentle synths. Their first single, ‘Got it Bad’, was an instant hit and garnered international attention. They were nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the 2016 Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards, followed by Album of the Year and Best Group nominations in 2017.
LEISURE’s Josh Fountain says it’s going to be a unique concert experience. “The fact that we get to play our songs with the APO still seems a bit surreal, it's the kind of thing you can only dream about as a musician. Claire and Hamish have done an incredible job with the orchestral arrangements and we're so excited and honoured to have been given this opportunity. This is going to be such a special night.”
The concert will kick off at 9pm with a short DJ set, followed by the APO performing two pieces by contemporary composers. LEISURE will then take to the stage, together with the APO as its 72-piece backing band, conducted by Hamish McKeich.
Hallertau Brewery has created the Hallertau Lounge at the Town Hall, where people who purchase VIP tickets can enjoy exclusive bar and lounge access, as well as securing the best seats in the house. GA ticket holders will have access to the main bar before and during the concert, with a choice selection of Hallertau beers available for purchase.
This concert is open to all ages and ID will be required to purchase alcoholic beverages. Ticket allocation will be standing GA on the stalls level, and seated GA upstairs in the circle. The first release of tickets at the special price of $40 goes on sale at midday on Friday 23 February via Ticketmaster. For an extra $20 concertgoers can upgrade to a VIP ticket (subject to availability) which includes exclusive access to the Hallertau Lounge with two drink vouchers per person and complimentary mezze platters, and reserved seating.