New Music & Video Release - The Black Seeds unveil bold new single and video, '8BIT' - 22nd May 2026
Artist Name - The Black Seeds
Release Name - 8BIT
Release Date - 22nd May 2026
Genre - Reggae, Funk, Soul Music
Label - Self-released
With a heavy hitting bassline, and an edgy riff of pure arcade nostalgia, The Black Seeds level up with their new single, ‘8BIT’. Conflict and confrontation, personally, locally and globally makes the theme for an arresting new musical contribution from the band in 2026.
The new single is accompanied by two killer dub versions mixed by Dr Lee and The Black Seeds own, Rizz AKA Ryan Prebble on guitar duties.
8BIT’ was born from a creative spark and crafted with The Black Seeds’ commitment to collaboration front and centre. From a rough demo, to developing the song at Wellington’s famed studio The Surgery, each member added their unique touch.
Nigel Patterson introduced a signature synth sound with a nostalgic arcade-game tone, and this became a defining element of the song’s character. The rhythm section delivers a punchy groove, while the horns were crafted in the mixing room in real time with the band.
Running the recording session, Ryan Prebble also contributed soulful chops and orchestrated a haunting high pitched guitar line.
Inspired by the band's great rhythm, frontman Barnaby Weir wrote and recorded on the theme of conflict and confrontation, personally, locally and globally.
The Black Seeds prepared the rhythm with vocals for mixing by musical and studio guru, Lee Prebble. The brass section reinforced their signature horn parts laid down long before, and the band did their minimal overdubs.
To the band's pure joy, the legendary Anika Moa lends her voice to the lush and soaring backing vocals.
After The Black Seeds finished their last show on the recent UB40 NZ tour 26’, saxophonist Matt Benton recorded a striking alto solo that closes the track. Dr. Lee then made his final touches and flare to the mix. Longtime collaborator Mike Gibson mastered the track and dubs, delivering that wide, loud, and phat sound suited to The Black Seeds tone.
The name ‘8BIT’ stuck referring to a ‘back to basics’ approach on conflict, retro arcade battles and challenges in life - an apt theme.
‘8BIT’ follows the release of ‘Compassion’ late last year. Both tracks give fans a taste of what’s still in store from The Black Seeds in 2026.