New Zealand music. One of the best things about living in this country is the music. Over the last 6 years of running this site I have learned a lot about NZ music. I have learned so much more than what gig is happening when, and what the best venue in Auckland is - I have learned about almost every single part of NZ music, from funding all the way through to creating CDs.
During this time I've also learned that there are certain things I don't like when it comes to NZ music. I don't like it when people don't support NZ music. I don't like it when record labels, venues and stores have to shut down because there isn't enough money to keep going. I don't like seeing musicians work so hard and not receive any help or funding. I don't like hearing about instruments and other music equipment being stolen and I don't like how some towns don't have sufficient means for NZ music to thrive.
But above all, there is one thing I hate the most. I hate seeing talent go to waste.
Over the last year we have seen many bands decide to call it a day, from the awesome Stardrunk, all the way to The D4 and Tadpole, but there is one band that I am very disappointed to see part ways - Epitome.
Epitome started out as a three-piece under the name on Dissident, and since then they have achieved a lot - from radio airplay to gigs with some of NZ's finest bands and from live TV appearances and independent tours to sponsorship deals - Epitome had everything going for them.
In 2005, after adding fourth member Sam Kingston to their line-up, they came 2nd in the NZ World Battle of the Bands. With achievements like this, it is easy to see how talented they are.
Also in 2005, we finally had the pleasure of hearing Epitome play live at our 5th birthday gig - and they rocked. I hadn't heard them play live prior to that night and I was more than impressed with their well-tuned performance.
However, earlier this year it was decided that this was one good thing that had to come to an end - and Epitome decided to call it a day. Epitome won't be leaving quietly though, and there are plans still in the pipeline for a final album.
Epitome was a very talented band and it is not easy to see something like this happen to such a talented group of guys. It definitely is the end of an era, and we will miss Epitome's music.
Some of the former members of Epitome do plan to continue with their music careers and it will be interesting to see what happens. I hope all goes well for each and every member of Epitome, regardless of what their futures may bring. The talent that was Epitome may have come to an end, but I am sure that the talent of individual members will rock on!
Lisa
muzic.net.nz