SIX60 is one of the hottest bands in New Zealand right now, so it makes sense they’ve chosen to stop by Logan during their brief stint in Australia.
Formed in a Dunedin flat on the South Island, the rock band released its debut album in October 2011. Almost 15 years later, they’ve grown into the highest-selling live band in New Zealand history.
Their music – an unmistakable mix of soul, rock, reggae and roots – has become iconic.
On 2 November, they’ll bring that sound to the Kingston Butter Factory, and it’s fair to say the band is expecting a big crowd of their own people.
For many Logan locals, the performance will be more than a concert – it will be a reminder of home.
Logan has a sizeable Kiwi community, with more than 7% of residents born in New Zealand and over 3% identifying as Māori. It also boasts one of the largest Pacific Islander populations in the world outside New Zealand.
“It’s great to play to Kiwis [in Australia],” band member Marlon Gerbes said.
“They are responsible for spreading the word in Australia and you can see it out in the crowd. Kiwis with their Aussie mates.
“Also, Kiwis get homesick at our shows so it’s great to provide them some of home.”
The band is well known for weaving Māori culture into their music through both lyrics and instruments. Their track Sundown, for example, predominantly features Māori percussion and woodwind.
“Our songs create a fun and loving vibe,” Mr Gerbes said.
“Every song is different. Sometimes they start with an idea from one person and it’s brought to the band.
“Sometimes the band jams together and something comes from that. We also collaborate outside the band with writers around the world, so some songs come from that.”
For those who haven’t seen SIX60 live before, Mr Gerbes has a simple message: expect “a family of people, dancing and enjoying each other’s company”.
Tickets can be purchased here: loganarts.com.au/event/six60/
