Common Ground

05/01/2025

Hello all,

This a wee note to let you know that Common Ground are soon to be branching into music touring, by way of organizing touring infrastructure for a few different international acts visiting Aotearoa this year.

Our first announcement is imminent. 🤩

Stay tuned...

04/01/2025

Greetings all,

We're excited for South African artist HANWHO to be performing at Common Ground on Tuesday 28th January.

Hanwho performs a soulful and groovy selection of originals and all time favourites where he combines acoustic and electronic sounds with subtle looping in his own unique way. Meandering through a diverse breed of genres and styles.

Seating for this show is strictly limited, get in quick to reserve your spot.⁣⁣

Tuesday 28th January
At Common Ground
Doors 7pm. Performance 7:30pm
Tickets: $20.00
Bookings: [email protected]

Hanwho

02/01/2025

* CONCERT ALERT *

Greetings for the new year,

For our first concert we're excited to welcome Anna Fält on Saturday 18th January.

Embarking on her tour of NZ with Featherston being her first stop.

Anna Fält is a versatile singer-songwriter who is passionate about Nordic folk singing. She ́s been touring around Scandinavia, as well as outside Europe, for years with her unique concept of solo vocal concerts. Specializing in different singing traditions from her two home countries Finland and Sweden, she combines the bright Scandinavian and dark East-European tones, performing in churches, museums, festivals, folk music venues, clubs and concert halls.

These concerts are tributes to the human voice, a one woman band, singing like you've never heard it before! Tradition meets vocal arts, avantgarde and story telling in an innovative and personal, intimate way.

Besides her solo concerts, Anna works with performing arts and multidisciplinary art projects, with folk music research and teaching various folk song workshops. She has 3 music degrees and she ́s been studying folk music in 5 different countries. Her main work is, however, being a solo artist and developing the solo a ca****la singing.

Check out this wee taste of what she does: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JHAgYMwzUA

Seating for this show is strictly limited, get in quick to reserve your spot.⁣⁣

Saturday 18th January
At Common Ground
Doors 7pm. Performance 7:30pm.
Tickets: $20.00
Bookings: [email protected]

31/12/2024

Greetings,

We would like to share this final message for 2024.

And say a big Thank! You! for your support.

We saw a flurry of activity which came and went throughout the walls of CG: a visual art exhibition, numerous concerts, several interactive activities as part of the annual Featherston Booktown, an artist in residence, and in more recent months, the installation of our own used record shop, continuing to attract more people each week. Stocked by Kane and Dean of High Voltage Wairarapa, and Radar records respectively.

It is a tough prospect in trying to keep a creative space running during these interesting political and financial times, and we honestly can't say how much longer we can continue doing this... But for today we're grateful for everything we and you have been able to achieve and offer thus far.

Lets see what '25 has in store.

Thanks to all the artists, musicians, creatives, and stall holders who have graced us. High Voltage Wairarapa, Radar Records, Darling Darklings, Elzette Bester, Katja Starke, Sam Saffery, Davidson's, Cerebral Pottery, Dead Threads, Rosalie Jurczenko, Trisha Findlay, Marie Burton, Chloe Mason, Ceara Lile, Steve Austin, Ava Sanganoo, Dan at The Bakehouse Collective.

To the bands:

Sam Bambery
Marcus Whale
Great Statue
False Colours
Mess Esque
Franck Vigroux
Antoine Schmitt
Sam Saffery
Hannah Everingham
Tess Liautaud
Jessie Shanks
Hollie Smith
Mark Lockett Trio
Filtersphere
Perpets
Erika Grant
Nick Hyder
'Ol' King Cole
The Marksmen
Deaf Edge
Dream Chambers
Dos-Ovni
David Watson

A special thanks must also go to Lace Reihana and her 'Just Be You' music school.

Music, playing music, and connecting through music, are extremely important to the two of us, even going so far as to say that it has saved our lives numerous times.

Lace works incredibly hard to offer lessons in drums, singing, guitar, and keys. And we're proud to be able to play a part in supporting her endeavour of operating a music school in Featherston. The world can use more artists, so here's to the next generations of musicians she helps to flourish.

We wish you a pleasant and safe end of the year.

Cheers Holly and Zac

16/12/2024

Hello all,

Our final concert for 2024 takes place tomorrow!

Come on down and support the students of Featherston's own: Just Be You Music School, with their Young Stars Concert.

These passionate, young up and coming music students have been working hard on their chops all year, and will be showing you what they can do!

There will also be time for open mic after the main concert finishes. So if any of you family members wish to have a play and sing, you're encouraged to go for it.

Tuesday 17th December
At Common Ground. 50c Fitzherbert St.
(Next door to Mrs. Hopes Second Chance Emporium)
Entry by Koha or Donation
4pm to 6:00pm

We look forward to seeing you there!

06/12/2024

Come on down and check out our epic selection of LPs and CDs.

Stocked and curated by both High Voltage Wairarapa and Radar Records!

Give the gift of vinyl… to yourself, or someone you love. 🥳

Open 10am til 2pm Saturdays and Sundays.

10/11/2024

> Concert⁣
> DOS-OVNI⁣
> WINTERWOOD⁣
> Friday 15th November⁣
> 7pm

04/11/2024

* Gig Announcement *

We're very excited to host ex-pat New Zealander, experimental musician DAVID WATSON, who is back from NYC for a short visit.

Sunday 17th November at Common Ground.

A guitarist and bagpiper, David has lived in New York since 1987, working as an improviser and composer. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists including Chris Abrahams, Robert Ashley, Frisner Augustin, Marcia Bassett, Tony Buck, Che Chen, Anthony Coleman, David First, Alastair Galbraith, Frode Gjerstad, Shelley Hirsch, Samara Lubelski, Chris Mann, Christian Marclay, Sean Meehan, Ikue Mori, Bill Nace, Andrea Parkins, Lee Ranaldo, Talibam!, Yoshi Wada, Alex Waterman, John Zorn, $75 Bill and others.

Originally a guitarist, Watson has become increasingly recognised for his bagpipe work. His album, 'Fi*****ng an Idea', released on Phill Niblock's XI label, was described in The Wire as, "shimmering lines piling-up like an old Terry Riley piece." While his disc 'Throats' on Thurston Moore's Ecstatic Peace label, was described by Volcanic Tongue as "brain rearranging massive walls of constantly shifting drone".

His trio 'Glacial' is an ongoing collaboration with Lee Ranaldo and Tony Buck. Watson's guitar playing was for many years a staple in performances of John Zorn's seminal piece Cobra.

Opening the afternoon is PERPETS. The duo of Antony Milton, and Zac Winterwood. Perpets perform a unique style of improvised, minimalist, abstract music played on acoustic and electric guitars, bells, and piano.

Catch David at this special afternoon show on Sunday 17th November.

Common Ground
50c Fitzherbert St. Featherston
Doors 4pm
Tickets $30.00
Bookings email: [email protected]

30/10/2024

* Gig Announcement *

We are psyched to have the brilliant DOS-OVNI perform at Common Ground, Friday 15th of November.

Dos-Ovni are an atmospheric dark indie duo from Te Mātau ā Maui Hawke's Bay, consisting of Deanne Beckett (Without Borders, The Reds, LD3) and Liv Strawbridge (Lizard Prom, The Diamond Dead, Roadeater).

They play a splendid combination of pounding drums and crushing guitars, topped with a reverberated sea of mysterious and angelic vocals.

Check out their single 'Sinners': https://dos-ovni.bandcamp.com/track/sinners

Support on the night will come from local artists: Winterwood. Weaving their own brand of ambient and slow core atmospheres.

Friday 15th November
Common Ground
50c Fitzherbert St. Featherston
Doors 7pm. Show 7:30pm⁣⁣
⁣Tickets $30.00⁣⁣
Bookings email: [email protected]

We're looking forward to seeing you there!

28/10/2024

* Gig Announcement *

Come on down and spend the evening with local artist LACE on Saturday November 9th.

Lace will be performing selections from her upcoming EP titled 'Soul Shakedown', to be released in February.

The music of Soul Shakedown takes inspiration from reggae, dub, hip hop, and soul. Lace's lyrics tell stories of truth, freedom, love, intuition, peace, and the war within.

The first collection of further songs to come. Written, recorded by Lace herself. Music for the next generation.

_ _

Saturday 9th November
Doors 6:30pm. Show at 7:00pm⁣⁣
⁣Tickets $20.00. Door sales only⁣⁣

Seating for this show will be limited, so don't miss out.⁣
⁣⁣⁣
We're looking forward to seeing you there!

Lace Reihana

25/10/2024

Vinyl plenty at Common Ground this long weekend.

Including the ‘Prince Box’. Featuring an epic selection of music by the great one.

Thanks to High Voltage Wairarapa!

20/10/2024

> DREAM CHAMBERS⁣
> 26th October⁣
> At Common Ground⁣
> Bookings: [email protected]

> Listen: https://dreamchambers.bandcamp.com

17/10/2024

* OPEN THIS WEEKEND * (Until 2PM)

Come and check out our new stallholder community at Common Ground.

You can find organic health products by Davidson's, Witchy supplies from Darlingdarklings, Vintage and pre-loved clothing by Dead Threads, and LPs supplied by the High Voltage Wairarapa record shop.

High Voltage has restocked their crates, so do come and find some hidden vinyl gems.

All in stock under our roof on an ongoing basis. Come on in for a look around. 😊

Open Saturdays and Sundays 10:00am until 2:00pm.

High Voltage Wairarapa Davidson's DarlingDarklings

14/10/2024

Hello all,

Saturday 26th of October we have a special concert featuring two electronic acts from over the hill.

DEAF EDGE the duo of Simon Cuming and deaf artist/singer Mary Jane Thomson. Wielding a combination of guitars, synth, and keys, into their own blend of experimental, ambient electronics.

DREAM CHAMBERS is the name for singer-songwriter Jess Chambers' experimental electronic music. Her sound, actualized through a mass of synthesizers, sequencers, and vocal processors, counterpoints heavy sub-bass with granular synthesis, noise, and harmony.

Watch this wee trailer for a taste of what to expect.

Seating for this show is strictly limited, get in quick to reserve your spot.⁣⁣

Saturday 26th October
Common Ground, Featherston
Doors 7pm. Show 7:30pm⁣⁣
⁣Tickets $30.00⁣⁣
To book email: [email protected]

We're looking forward to seeing you there,

Cheers

Dream Chambers

Send a message to learn more

28/09/2024

Hello all,

We're looking forward to welcoming local family band, the Marksmen, featuring Kolya, Oskar and Saali Marks to Common Ground.

Saturday 12th October⁣
Doors 4pm. Show 4:30pm⁣⁣
⁣Tickets $20.00 / $15.00 Student⁣⁣
To book please email: [email protected]

--

⁣⁣⁣What happens when your dad is a musician and music teacher, and plays music with you your whole life?

You could either be completely turned off and find other passions…or you embrace the sonic arts and follow that path to wherever it leads.

Kolya Marks (17) is a student at Kuranui college and has been playing piano since he was 5, singing shortly after, took up the bass guitar for a few years in primary school and more recently the guitar. He wrote his first song at age 7, and hasn't looked back since, diving into the world of composing, songwriting, performing and recording, and honing his skills. This year he entered the secondary schools Smokefree Rockquest as a solo performer, and made it through to the national final, which will take place in Auckland on September 21.

Kolya’s songs are complex, melodically and harmonically rich and lyrically poetic, and his voice is unique and emotive. He takes his influences from artists such as Jeff Buckley, Thom Yorke, Muse and Elvis Presley, with his piano driven performances taking the listener on a journey.

Oskar Marks (14) also attends Kuranui College, and has played drums since before he could talk. He got his first proper drum kit at age 4, and ever since has been a passionate student of rhythm, jamming with his dad, uncles and brother, and anyone else who could keep up. Oskar’s musical tastes are wide and varied, and his playing is sensitive and supportive - while also being able to let it rip when required! Oskar’s school band “Cantaloop” made it to the top 20 in the national Smokefree Tangata Beats competition this year, with a prize of recording a single in a professional studio.

Saali Marks (Old) is dad. Music teacher at Kuranui College, member of Wellington ska band “Battle-Ska Galactica” and long time singer, guitarist and songwriter. Saali’s songs range from bluesy love songs to complex musings on the state of the world and psychedelic wig-outs inspired by youthful adventures of the distant past.

Saali and Kolya will perform solo sets, and then will be joined by Oskar for a full Marksmen finale, where anything could happen!

Apart from being an opportunity to get all the Marks men together for a public performance before the boys start leaving home, this concert is a fundraiser for Kolya’s first single - specifically to hire an arranger and a string quartet to augment his beautiful song which will be released later this year.

As former long-time residents of Featherston, the Marksmen are really looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and having the privilege of performing for the music lovers of the Wairarapa.

We're looking forward to seeing you there,

Cheers Holly and Zac

Saali Marks Kolya Marks Oskar Marks

23/09/2024

Poetry / Writing Meeting Tomorrow Night - in Featherston

Come join us in celebrating the power of the written word, at our meeting of the Not Dead Poets Society, Tuesday evening 24th September.

The Not Dead Poets Society is open to anyone who wishes to share their writings: poetry, prose, short stories, or anything else in between, in a supportive and respectful environment.

If you're an established writer, an unpublished writer, a secret writer, a non-writer who happens to write... then we're looking forward to seeing you there. 😀

This will operate similar to an open mic format, so feel free to turn up on the night, or let us know if you're coming ahead of time, and we can make sure that everyone has an opportunity to share their work.

The Not Dead Poets Society meets on the last Tuesday of each month at Common Ground.

Tuesday evening 24th September
At Common Ground
7:30pm
$5.00 entry

21/09/2024

* OPEN TODAY * (Until 2PM)

Come and check out our new stallholder community at Common Ground.

You can find organic health products by Davidson's, Witchy supplies from Darlingdarklings, Vintage and pre-loved clothing by Dead Threads, and LPs supplied by the High Voltage Wairarapa record shop.

High Voltage has restocked their crates, so do come and find some hidden vinyl gems.

All in stock under our roof on an ongoing basis. Come on in for a look around. 😊

Open Saturdays and Sundays 10:00am until 2:00pm.

High Voltage Wairarapa DarlingDarklings Davidson's

13/09/2024

* OPEN THIS WEEKEND *

Come and check out our new stallholder community at Common Ground.

You can find organic health products by Davidson's, Witchy supplies from Darlingdarklings, Vintage and pre-loved clothing by Dead Threads, and LPs supplied by the High Voltage Wairarapa record shop.

All in stock under our roof on an ongoing basis.

Come on in for a look around. 😊

Open Saturdays and Sundays 10:00am until 2:00pm.

Davidson Whanau High Voltage Wairarapa DarlingDarklings