Sola Rosa

The 50th annual Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards are just around the corner, taking place at the Vector Arena in Auckland onThursday November 19th.

We had the chance to fire some questions through to Andrew Spraggon from Sola Rosa, who are up for Best Electronica Album for their album Magnetics.

How does it feel to be nominated for the Best Electronica Album?

This album has some very personal meaning for me in particular, the band had been through so turbulent times which we managed to turn around so I'm proud of that first and foremost. That aside its always nice to be acknowledged for the hard work that goes in to making each record.

You're up against some strong competition. How do you feel the Electronica scene is currently going in New Zealand? 

Its a funny one, I dont really see us as ‘Electronica', but then we never quite fit in to any one box. Regardless, we are up against strong artists all of whom I have great respect for. As far as how the scene is going, I dont know, I certainly dont feel theres a scene as such. Theres a bunch of people making music in their bedrooms but no real movement, or collective, not that I'm aware of anyway.

When and how long did it take you to record the album?

The album took 2 and a bit years to make mostly over 3 summers. I work in winter of course but most of the creative work takes place over summer, I'm simply more inspired in the summer months.

Where did you record it and what was the most challenging aspect?

The album was tracked at my home studio donned The Cave! Mostly myself and Ben White would get together and write the tracks then bring in vocalists. The most challenging aspect of any album is know when a track is finished and making the songs the best they can be. Some tracks write themselves, some are more cumbersome and need to be taken out on many dates before they get introduced to your friends. 

Also financing an album. This has changed dramatically over the past few years, budgets have been slashed so its got to a point where I dont want to work to a budget any more. I dont want to have financial restrictions on art; to a point of course. 

What are your plans following the Music Awards, heading into summer and 2016?

We have a pretty busy summer coming up in NZ. We're deep in to the next album as far as writing and collaboration goes. We're also planning the next European tour for 2016 so I have my hands pretty full. Besides music I'm a dad of 2 beautiful girls so time is precious!

Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards

Thursday November 19th: Vector Arena, Auckland

Tickets via Ticketmaster