Flashback

Keep The Faith 27/01/10

People are you ready for another sneaky edition of Radio WFFD.  Tune in now and check out what's cooking with MC Slave, from the old skool to the nu including brand new Submariner remix of Julian Dyne ft Mara TK and The Raft from our In Session recording with Charlie Gillett at Maida Vale studio, BBC.

Freddy's Goodies 7/01/10

Straight off the wire, MC Slave dropping his first Radio WFFD show for 2010.  To tune in, click and pop the player on Radio FFD.  While you're there check the 'Interview Zone' featuring recent Freddy's korero on American radio and a gem from the past 'On The Couch' a two-part feature by The Jewel School recorded in 2005 on the cusp of the release of Based On A True Story. 

Speaking of classics, we've also dug through the video vaults and found our first Press Kit from 2003 and the golden HOPE music video shot and directed by Marcel Allen at SPLORE in 2002. For viewing at your leisure, check Fat Freddy's Drop TV.

Chopper's Tour Rap 5/01/10

It's A Tour (w)Rap.... almost
 
Where were we....? Oh that's right... NYE in Riwaka. Huge turn out from the most northern of the southern whanau - 2000 happy shiny people in a paddock under a beautiful clear sky, what more could we ask for. After some heavyweight club-style jams from the band (Shiverman and Ray Ray's Revenge in particular), El Slavo presided over the count down to the Twenty Tens in his truely inimitable way - hats off to you for the send off. Then into the new year we sailed, with the crowd taking up lead vocals on Roady and Wandering Eye. Brilliant way to start what should be a great year - fingers crossed.
 
Then we headed north to the beautiful Mangawhai Heads for the last stop on this magical mystery tour. Great crowds again - so thanks for the support - and we got treated to some spectacular sunsets too.
 
Special mention to Billy & Di who so graciously opened up their home for us - it was the perfect pre/post gig spot. Also to the crew/drivers/tech teams who made it all happen so smoothly and also Brent & Helen for hooking us up in the first place. Extra special mention to Dan Yeabsley. Some of you more observant / less drunk pople would have noticd we were without Clubba Laing for a few gigs and Dan stepped in to fill those mighty boat shoes superbly. Extra extra spcial mention to the Mangawhai Butchers who managed to unearth and entire shoulder of pork for Dobie and Em to cook - was tres tasty.
 
See you in Parihaka on Friday....
 
And did you see the line up for Black Barn on Mar 7th!!!! FFD & Special Friends are set to shake the Hawkes Bay once more.
 
Doin' it for the love of music.

Grouse Line Up At Black Barn 4/01/10

Rolling into 2010 and we're pleased to announce a grouse show at Black Barn Vineyards on Sunday 7th March playing alongside our cuzzies Little Bushman led by Warren Maxwell aka Fulla Flash, Ladi 6 & The Turnaround.  It's a grouse line up for Freddys return to the outdoor amphitheatre in Hawke's Bay and all we need now is the sunshine to join the party.  Last year we played at Black Barn as rain pelted down and stalwart locals in gumboots and wetsuits helped keep up the spirits. Tickets On Sale Now from Black Barn Vineyards.

Chopper's Tour Report 31/12/09

After a good blow out in Europe it's always nice to hit the road in your own backyard - especially in full summer. And after the obligatory Xmas overindulgencs it was always going to be interesting to see what unfolded on Dec 27th at The Mount - would Hopepa have his Jelly Roll back in action? Would Fitchie remember the freaky breakdown section in that new afro joint? Would Chopper make it to the gig at all? Well, yes. Everything was poppin as you'd expect. And the crowd? Yup, The Mount knows how to party. And Coroglen knows how to PARTY... and Waihi... knows how to PAAAAAAR-TAY. Hats off to all the folks who saw out 09 in the Nth Island with us - definitely some of the best (and loudest) singing we've heard from NZ crowds.
 
The only off part of coro-christmas has been the weather - where's all that lovely sunshine gone, eh? The occasional spot of rain hasn't stopped us from hitting the golf courses though - something we'll continue with up north too.... and we've unearthed a new talent in the process. As well as straight killing it on BVs for this trip, Kemera has the makings of a serious golf addict. If you're wondering who he is, then get along to the next few gigs - our show starts with Kemera, his guitar and some dope tunes. Catch you in Riwaka for NYE and then Mangawhai on the 2nd and 3rd.
 
We're on our way.

BEST BLAG WINNERS 23/12/09

We're pleased to announce five lucky winners for our Best Blag Summer Shakedown competition - drum roll - scoring some Freddy's soul for the Xmas stocking are:
1    Chris Boley.
2    Barbara Kinley
3    Hemi Takimoana
4    Noel Woods
5    Aroha
Each of the winners receives a double pass to a show of their choice on The Summer Shakedown tour hitting The Mount, Coroglen, Waihi Beach, Riwaka and Mangawhai.  Thanks everyone who entered - the judging was tough 'cos you're all great blaggers!

Read 3 Top Blags 23/12/09

1/ Chris Boley
'your not going to believe this but,......

ive got this cat called skinny frederico
ate the 60 bucks i put aside for the gig,..yo!

i foolishly hid it in the cat nip stash
frederico's not so skinny, now he's eaten my cash.

so i have to get in for free,............. one way or another
dodge the doorman or jump the fence with darkness as my cover

and if all else fails,.......i will have to dash
back home, dress up, and sneak in as fulla flash!

choice as'

2/ Barbara Kinley
'PLEASE pick my fantastic partner marlon fitzpatrick to win your competition! He works very hard out in all kinds of weather as a bill sticker, putting up posters all over auckland of upcoming events - and i KNOW he's done some of your guys ones before.  It would be fantastic for him to actually attend one of these for a change instead of just advertising them for everyone else.  Thanks.'

3/ Hemi Takimoana
'Dear Fat Freddys Drop,

I would like to submit Tina Tamatea & her girls into a free pass to BLAG all expenses paid.

Tina is a solo mum with 3 girls. She works 7 days a week to make ends meet. She does have a support group of family and freinds but I feel she is well deserved to have a holiday. People whom know her adore her cos she has an open personality which is full of LIFE IS GOOD. That attitude is what I think deserves goodness.

Yip you could say Im a fan of hers as well as fat freddys drop.

I aint gonna palava over it any more because you have to meet the lady to understand as words dont do justice.'

Kind regards
Hemi Takimoana

How To Buy A Summer Shakedown 22/12/09

If you're considering buying a Summer Shakedown ticket or three for The Mount, Coroglen, Waihi Beach, Riwaka or Mangawhai, tickets are available from Ticketmaster or from the venue.  Everyman Records in Nelson have also got tickets for our NYE show at Riwaka down South. There will be Summer Shakedown door sales at each venue on the day/night of the show unless sold out prior.  Word is Coroglen will be the first to sell out.
The Summer Shakedown – soak up a day of sand, surf and kai moana, add a drop of Freddy's live voodoo and it'll be such a perfect day.

Discover Freddy's 'Afreak' 22/12/09

Discover our freshest tune 'Afreak', a reworked Ray Ray, The Raft and more playing exclusively on Charlie Gillett's World on 3, BBC.  The tracks, captured at Maida Vale, London, featured in Gillett's world music programme last weekend and are available now on BBC iPlayer for the next four days. Tony Chang takes to the mic to give some insight into the music & Dr Boondigga.

Best Blag Update 21/12/09

Judging is underway for our Best Blag competition.  Winners for The Summer Shakedown Tour tickets will be announced in time for Xmas cheer.  Thanks to everyone who sent in their Best Blag stories. Stay tuned.

Win Autographed Vinyls 21/12/09

Our good friends Amplifier are running a sizzling Summer Shakedown Tour competition with two autographed prizes up for grabs - Dr Boondigga & The Big BW 12" vinyl and Based On A True Story 12" vinyl. Competition is open to all Amplifier users worldwide (if you've ever signed up to shop on our Merch Tent that includes you). Please login to Amplifier to enter.  Winners will be announced 15th January 2010.

In other Amplifier news, we've topped a few of their top seller charts in 2009 including top selling MP3 - Pull The Catch and 5th place-getter for Joe Dukie & DJ Fitchie - Midnight Marauders and top selling Digital Bundle (Album/EP), CD and Vinyl for Dr Boondigga And The Big BW. Live at The Matterhorn CD, Fantastic Voyages DVD and 12" singles The Camel and Roady also featured among the top ten sellers. Chur people for the finger clicking goodness.

Freaky Freddy's 19/12/09

Did you catch freaky fresh Freddy's track 'Afreak' on Charlie Gillett's World on 3, BBC?  'Afreak' or 'Afrique' is a track that was jammed on the Album Shakedown Tour to USA and Europe and this version from our In Session recording at Maida Vale, London was the first recording of what is essentially a work in development.  Experience a taste of things to come including a reworked version of Ray Ray when the just played live broadcast is made available on BBC Player.  We'll let you know.

Last Chance To Blag 18/12/09

This is it folks, last chance to enter our Best Blag comp and score a freebie to a Summer Shakedown show. Send us your best story about why your 'loved one' deserves a ticket to our Summer Shakedown Tour. Three winners will receive entry to a Summer Shakedown show of your choice - The Mount, Coroglen, Waihi Beach, Riwaka or Mangawhai.
To enter email Freddy
OR
Drop a comment on our Facebook page Fat-Freddys-Drop
Best Blag entry word count limited to 100 words. Accommodation and Travel not included. Competition closes today - Friday 18 December 2009.

Shakedown Aussie 2010 16/12/09

Our first show dates are landing for Australia in 2010.  We're playing Freemantle Arts Centre and Old Broadwater Farm, Wombu Concert (both in February) and at the Byron Bay BluesFest 21st Anniversary in April.  More details and links on our Gig Guide.

Blag Comp Heating Up 15/12/09

Our Best Blag competition to score a freebie to a Summer Shakedown show is heating up.  You've got till this Friday to enter your best blag story about why your 'loved one' deserves a ticket to our Summer Shakedown Tour. Three winners will receive entry to a Summer Shakedown show of your choice - The Mount, Coroglen, Waihi Beach, Riwaka or Mangawhai.
To enter email Freddy
OR
Drop a comment on our Facebook page Fat-Freddys-Drop
Best Blag entry word count limited to 100 words. Accommodation and Travel not included. Competition closes: Friday 18 December 2009.

Radio NewsFlash 15/12/09

Kia Ora and welcome to another exciting episode of Radio WFFD with host MC Slave who has included some Xmas treats in the mix with thanks to the likes of Tubbs. While we're on the radio tip, we're pleased to be streaming 'The World' Interview on Radio FFD featuring reporter  Corey Takahashi catching up with Hopepa and Fitchie at The Roxy in LA. The World is a co-production from PRI, the BBC and WGBH. Don't forget to tune in this week to our studio session on World on 3 with Charlie Gillett.  Recorded in London after the Album Shakedown Tour, the studio session is broadcasting 18th December 2009 at 23:15-01:00 (UK time) on BBC Radio.

BLAG A SUMMER SHAKEDOWN 11/12/09

Ever blagged your way into a gig without paying the door charges? Well here's your chance to score a freebie to our Summer Shakedown Tour Aotearoa NZ.
Enter the 'Best Blag' competition by dropping us the best story about why your 'loved one' deserves a ticket to our Summer Shakedown Tour.  We'll select three of the Best Blag stories and the winners will receive entry to a Summer Shakedown show of your choice - The Mount, Coroglen, Waihi Beach, Riwaka or Mangawhai.  That's one ticket for you and the other as the best Christmas pressie you can give.
To enter email Freddy
OR
Drop a comment on our Facebook page Fat-Freddys-Drop
Best Blag entry word count limited to 100 words. Accommodation and Travel not included. Competition closes: Friday 18 December 2009.

Dr Boondigga Tops iTunes NZ 10/12/09

News to hand. iTunes REWIND 2009 has named Dr Boondigga & The Big BW iTunes 'Best New Zealand Album', iTunes NZ 'Highest Selling Album' and iTunes NZ 'Best NZ Hip Hop/Rap Album'.

World of Music Album of The Year 7/12/09

World music pioneer Charlie Gillett has chosen his seven best albums of 2009 on his BBC show World of Music and joining the selection from Africa, Europe and Brazil is our very own Dr Boondigga & The Big BW. Gillett plays The Raft in the World of Music track mix that you can catch streaming on the BBC this week. If you're in Aotearoa, NZ listen to Charlie Gillett's World of Music on-air with Radio New Zealand National this Tuesday 8th December after the 2300 news.

Gillett has already named Dr Boondigga & The Big BW 'Record of the Month October 2009' and awarded the album Four Stars in his Guardian review.  On the horizon is our studio session recorded in London on the last day of the Album Shakedown tour and playing on BBC Radio 3 with Charlie Gillett on 18th December.

Radio WFFD Back on Deck 7/12/09

MC Slave has returned from wandering with Freddy's around the globe to deliver a new show for Radio WFFD. Tune in now.

Chopper's Tour Epilogue: The Ballard Of Matty King (and Dex too) 4/12/09

Hell, I forgot to mention Matty King in the tour 'thank you' list. What an oversight... especailly as he was responsible for the sight'n'light display at each show. Top work the whole way - though we were close to losing him in Amsterdam. And after "giving it a nudge" after the final night in Madtown had a 40hr trip back to Sydney via LA and Auckland in time to put on a show for Tiki T. Poor little b*****d. Spare a thought for Dex too - who was his travel buddy on that sick little adventure - I pity the border security in Oz.

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry Seven 'It's A Wrap' 4/12/09

You'll have to excuse me on this one... the past few days have flown by an getting any time to log the comings and goings on the tour bus have been scant.
Got to say, the Paris gig was great... the Bataclan is a top venue and the Parisien contingent showed up in force - another Sell Out show! The band has been dipping deep into the dub on this trip and Fitchie has discovered some new tricks - that Ol' Dog has been leading us on some merry voyages into the sound spectrum.
We eurostared over to blighty and hit the MASSIVE Hammersmith Apollo on a very cold Monday - thanks for turnout one and all.
And then up to Manchester - the last show of the tour and also Jetlags Birthday. As you'd expect he tore it up - Dr Boondigga never knew what hit em. Not did Dj Fitchie or Chopper - who both got hit with a bout of severe food poisoning literally minutes before we hit the stage. Despite this we delivered the heaviness for one of our favourite crowds in Europe - and whilst Chopper and Fitchie headed back to the hotel post show, the rest of the band and crew hit the bar to raise one or two in honour of the tour and Mr Birthday Boy.
At the airport now... looking forward to some sun, surf, seafood and - most importantly - our loved ones.
Thanks to everyone who turned up to listen, and to everyone who helped on the road - especially Rich, Dex, Walt, Ema, Jen and Club Ahhhhhjay.
See you soon.

BOATS VINYL RETURNS 1/12/09

Take note audiophiles Based On A True Story double gatefold 12" vinyl is back.  Buy/Collect Now from our Merch Tent.

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry Six 29/11/09

So Berlin passed ina flash - 24 hours in a city is never long enough - especially one that doubles as our home away from home on trips to Europe.  Played at Astra with 2000 fans packed in and behind us from the start.  Freddys have been dropping some new tunes on this trip with 'Afreak' becoming a firm favourite - Prince meets Kuti meets Chic - you can't go wrong.  Tonight we're in Paris and then the UK beacons - beyond that we can almost smell the pohutakawa flowers and fish 'n' chips on the beach.

Fred Head Shouts Outs 29/11/09

The shout outs from our USA Album Shakedown tour continue to land including these emails to Freddy:

F@$#@king awesome. From: Robert Pearson

Just had the great fortune to check out your show at the Roxy in Hollywood. Having been to NZ a couple of times now,(totally love it there) my wife and I jumped at the chance to come from Vancouver, BC and see you guys in LA. We got the last tickets available and you made it worthwhile. Cheers to you guys, it was an awesome show! We are fans already, but you can add two more FredHeads to your growing list anyway. You've got it goin' ON! From: Ken and Mitsue, Vancouver, BC
 
I am compelled to express my gratitude to FFD for trekking over to the US, and especially for making it to San Francisco!! The shows were INCREDIBLE. I'm so sad that all the Freddy's fellas are gone and the shows are over - after all of that anticipation.  Please come back soon!  LOVE the new album, too!! From: Gabby

Just wanted to let you know that we flew to San Fran to catch the show last Thursday and it was CHOICE! Thanks for making the effort!!! From: Stephanie

Help Us Win HANGTIME AWARD 27/11/09

We’ve been nominated  for the HANGTIME AWARDS BEST ALBUM for Dr Boondigga & The Big BW.  Vote now and help us win the competition run by Radio Grenouille in France.  We’re currently sitting second equal in the voting stakes.  You’ve got until 15/1/2010 to help Freddys and Dr Boondigga win the HANGTIME AWARDS BEST ALBUM.  Chur.

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry Five 27/11/09

Yesterday was a good day...in the wee small hours DJ Fitchie dealt some serious damage to the pocketbooks of several European businessmen at the local casino.  No one slept very well after the flight from the US, so had an impromptu breakfast meeting over plates of ham, smoked salmon, pancakes etc at the breakfast table - we dealt to the buffet big time.  Later in the day Chopper tracked down a beautiful replacement Baritone (Check FFDTV for an update soon).  Then we had a great dinner out at Trouw (Thanks James) followed by cocktails and city views...and beaucoup fun in the automated photo booth at the bar.

Amsterdam has been fun - the boys have spent many an hour lurking in some of the city's record stores, cafes and shoe shops.  We've managed to lose track of lighting guru, Matt "Easy Times' King, though.  Thankfully Slave has volunteered to 'search every coffee shop in the area; one by one if need be, until we find him.  We can't leave a colleague in peril.  How selfless.

Today we're in prep mode for a sold out gig at Amsterdam's legendary Paradiso - tickets were snapped up weeks ago and are swapping hand for big bucks on eBay.  Should be a killer.

More from the road soon.  Next stop Berlin.

FFDTV Wins Accolade 25/11/09

Fat Freddy's Drop TV scored Best Music Site at the recent Pixel Awards.  From thousands of entries worldwide just 20 winners were selected and Wellington based interactive agency Resn took home an unprecedented five awards including Best Music Site for FFDTV.  Triple Chur.

The Electric Cooking With Freddys 24/11/09

Brand new group 'The Electric' ft DJ Vadim will be cooking in the kitchen at our Album Shakedown shows in Paris, London and Manchester. The Electric lineup features Pugs Atoms, Sabira Jade, Lil' Ste and 'Daddy Vad' aka DJ Vadim.
"It's a soul tronica boom bap cosmic galactic funk from the heart! Pugs is from Chicago and a sparring partner to Kanye West, Sabira is from UK and is a soul slanger killing people softly with vocal diamonds. Lil' Ste is from Jamaica and is a wizard on the keyboards. He has played with John Legend, Michael Jackson, Estelle, Beverly Knight, Chipmunk...Daddy Vad - well I'm on the mpc!!!" said DJ Vadim.
Get to our shows early people and catch the beautiful music from 'The Electric'. Paris show is Sold Out! and London and Manchester shows selling fast so get yer tickets now (and not from a scalper). DJ Vadim is also playing the respective after parties cos he dont' sleep.

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry Four 24/11/09

Saw an awful lot of freeway yesterday - 6 lanes both ways and concrete out to the horizon - as part of our round trip to San Diego to play the World Beat Centre. Another great night - and like all three gigs on the West Coast, it had it's own vibe going on.  Really cool to play to a stone cold sober crowd - yup, NO liquor license. Once again the locals treated us so well, we've been totally overwhelmed by the support here so to everyone who has stepped up to show us some love this past week, a huge thank you.
Today has all been about soaking up some sunshine in Santa Monica - and Jerk Chicken (Cha Cha Chicken rules) - and washing.  Sad to see out US leg come to a close so soon, but we had a blast.  Back soon!
PS - No joy replacing the Baritone...fingers crossed for Europe.
Schmokeanapancake

GREAT SHOW AT ROXYYYY!!!!!!!! 23/11/09

We've been getting heaps of choice feedback about our shows in USA including these emails to Freddy regards the shakedown at The Roxy in LA...

GREAT GREAT GREAT SHOW AT THE ROXY!!!!!!!!YOU GUYS ROOCKKKKKKK!!!! WE LOVE YOU HERE!!! From: Jaime Scholnick

SERIOUSLY.....last nite @ the roxy in LA was absolutely incredible!!! everyone there was totally BLOWN away...california LOVES you guys...you need to come back again and again and again...PLEASE!!!! but...most importantly...BIG Thank yous for coming and doing what you do which is just so very beautiful and moving...it was one of the best nites ever!!! From: jane xxx

Just caught your set at the Roxy last night and it was fantastic! You guys rocked the house! Thanks for all of your great music. The new album's great, keep up the great work! I'm definitely on board for the next album/tour. Can't wait! Thanks again! From: Michael Adorno

Tell the boys thank you...for their beautiful music, soulful groove & positive energy. Thanks for the mini US tour...Safe travels through Europe.  From: Kristen

Massive thanks to everyone for catching us on the Album Shakedown USA - we'll be back.

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry Three ft Trailer Accident 21/11/09

So we played The Independent last night.  The Fred Heads came out in force and were an amazing audience, dropping lyrics loud and proud with Dukie.  Special thanks to the staff at The Independent, Amoeba Records in Haight, The Marigold Pub, Grove Merchant Records and especially to DJ Tom Thump who dropped a killer set before we hit the stage.  Was great to finall hit the stage on the West Coast properly and classics old and new got a thorough workout.
Then we jumped in the bus and hit the freeway south to LA.  All going well until the trailer full of gear parted ways with the bus full of people at 100kph on a six-land road full of trucks.  End result was a 2am roadside search for our missing instruments etc. To be honest words won’t do this little twist justice check Slave’s movie on Fat Freddy's Drop TV (Feature Video) for the full rundown.
PS – does anyone know where I can get hold of a baritone sax that doesn’t look like a pancake.

Freddys Jam Beyond Bob 21/11/09

We're on fire - performed our first headline show in USA at The Independent and interest from local media has been fantastic. Like this email from Jim Welte from Jambase in California who touched base with us down the phone line last month.  He said 'Wanted to say thanks for connecting me with Mu and Dallas last month for the interviews... The show last night here in San Francisco was phenomenal.'
Check the Jambase story now.

Chopper’s Tour Diary: Entry Two 20/11/09

Arrived in San Fran and found the hotel absolutely deserted.  Freddy's had scattered far and wide across the city... Hopepa, Fitchie and Blaze had got their 'Sex and The City' on and hit the Macy's One Day Sale - it was a '5 bagger' for Ho.  Not to be outdone I hit the legendary record haunt Groove Merchant which is handily located 5 mins from the hotel.  I managed not to blow all my food money at once and later on Sugar 2 Tone caught up with me.  Yes! Managed to beat him to punch again!

In-store performance at Amoeba Records was great - hats off to Dave and all the staff there for making us feel so welcome.  And a huge shout out the couple hundred people who came on down - was great seeing people dancing right across the store and in-between rows of CDs, DVDs and records.  Most who showed up didn't have tickets for the show tonight at The Independent, and we've had an endless string of requests to come back again.  We also met folks from as far away as New York who had crossed the country for these shows...just amazing to get that support.  And being in San Fran we've coined a name for these hardcore fans - The Fred Heads.

Maranui Celebration 20/11/09

Back on the home beach in Lyall Bay there were celebration drinks last night for Maranui Surf Club and Cafe.  One of our fav haunts was under threat following a devastating fire but after some vocal pitching and support worldwide the heritage building on the beach is being gifted back to the club to rebuild.  Woohoo. There'll be some fund raising and plenty of hard graft before the building is open and The Camel is back grooving by the sea but meantime thanks to everyone who took note of the call to support the cause.

The Roxy SOLD OUT! 19/11/09

Our show at The Roxy in LA is officially SOLD OUT!  San Francisco show is already gone daddy gone so last chance to catch us in California will be The World Beat Centre in San Diego. 

Chopper's Tour Diary: Entry One 19/11/09

Off we go! After some last minute stress over US visas etc, the rest of the Freddy's slipped out of the country a few days ago.  I wonder if they made it in one piece?  I'm flying solo tonight (Wed 18th) and half expect to find Jelag and 2 Tone wandering slowling in circles (like a pair of Polar Bears at the zoo) in Customes Limbo-lnad when I touch down in San Fran.  Either that or everyone made it through good and proper and they're now going nuts in the trainers stores.  Hell. I wonder if they've left any records for me at Amoeba.  Damn, I knew I was cutting it close.  Nevermind, despite throwing my back out so bad I had to stop off at the doctors on the way to the airport, I'm kinda looking forward to the flight... I just picked up the latest James Ellory novel (perfect pre-US reading) and the aforementioned back injury helped score me a free upgrade... Woohoo! See you State-side.

Album Shakedown On The Road 18/11/09

We're on the road folks with an in-store at Amoeba today in San Francisco our first touchdown in USA.  Our show at The Independent the following night is sold out so next option is grabbing last tickets to our gigs in San Diego or LA.  Then we're winging our way to Europe where Amsterdam, Berlin and Paris are already sold out.  London and Manchester tickets still available to catch us. Chur.

Powerstation Pix 18/11/09

Just loaded pix from The Powerstation shows to our Gallery.  Thanks Yuichi Ikeda and Sam Baker aka samgirlphotography for the pix.  Shot!

San Francisco In-Store! 13/11/09

San Francisco you're invited to our in-store performance at Amoeba Music Store this Wednesday November 18th.  If you missed out on tickets to the sold out show at The Independent this is your opportunity to experience Freddy's voodoo live and grab a copy of Dr Boondigga & The Big BW.  See you 6.00PM at Amoeba,1855 Haight St, San Francisco. FREE For All.

California Soul 13/11/09

Broadcasting now is a California soul special from original 'Cisco kid MC Slave on Radio WFFD.  We're touching down in person real soon. Brilliant.

Listening Party Spinner 11/11/09

Speaking of USA - spinner.com is featuring Dr Boondigga and The Big BW on their new releases Listening Party which means you can stream the full album for the next week. Chur.

Dr Boondigga Strikes USA 11/11/09

Big week for us in USA as Dr Boondigga & The BIG BW was officially released in-store on November 10th 2009.  Thanks to everyone in the land of stars and stripes who had already discovered 'Freddy's'.  We've got the likes of rock paper scissors on the case to drum up more interest for our renegade soul voodoo from a distant planet. Some of the early review scores include:

"With a silk-smooth tenor, oven-hot horns, and a rhythm section that teeters on the edge of the pocket, it's a tripped-out electro-soul heaven." - Sound Bleed

"Stripped-down rhythms, rich harmonies, and sparse horns create a chilled vibe perfect for beach or party." - Sound Roots

"With soul vocals, over dub step beats, and reggae chords, Fat Freddy's Drop is entirely fresh and addictive." - SF Critic Music Blog

For more USA flavor check us on rock paper scissors.

Halloween Shakedown Shots 10/11/09

Check our Halloween Shakedown at The Front Room featuring now on the Gallery. Dancing with skeleton shots courtesy of Pat Shepherd one of our finest photographers in Aotearoa NZ and editor of Exposure Lifestyles mag.  Chur Paddy.

Summer Shakedown 9/11/09

You can catch our Aotearoa NZ Summer Shakedown tickets now via Ticketmaster or Amplifier and be in to swim with sizzling sun, sand, surf and soul.

Sydney Hot Shots 9/11/09

Check our Gallery for shots of our recent visit to Sydney courtesy of photographer and former paratrooper Chris McKeen.  Kiwi born Chris snapped the Sunday show at The Forum as well as Dobie Blaze and Freddys Paua Wonton cook up hosted by Inertia our record distributor.  His response to the mean as cook up invite was 'Um. Time required to come up with an answer: 0.0041 secs. Time required to frantically rearrange my schedule on Tuesday to accommodate this request: 2.37 minutes. Hell yes'.  Chur Chris & MSO.

More fab live action shots from likes of Pat Shepherd in Welli on the way soon.

Berlin Sold Out! 7/11/09

Our show at Astra in Berlin this November is officially sold out!  Promoter Daniel Best confirmed the news overnight.  Chur to Berlin people for the love.  You can still catch us on the Album Shakedown Tour across Europe in Paris, London and Manchester.  Amsterdam sold out though and expect the others to follow.

POWERSTATION SOLD OUT! 6/11/09

It is true people that both shows at The Powerstation this weekend are sold out!  For those lucky punters going along shake that Shiverman loose. If you missed out on tickets this time catch us on The Summer Shakedown Tour.  Chur.

Audacious Trippin! 5/11/09

We've received word of an audacious trip by Jared a longtime Base FM listener who hails from Hamilton, Montana, USA.

Jared who discovered Base FM while living in Hawaii said 'my lady and I are really stoked for Fat Freddy's Drop finally making it to the States.  We got tickets to all three shows. Road Trippin! Should be about a 2000-4000mi depending on the path. Heading to the coast near Seattle. Then along the coast for the shows...  Aloha, Jared.'

Too much Jared, we're pretty impressed and Chopper Reedz says we must we add more incentive by offering you a signed T shirt (or something similar) as a reward.  Hit us up on your first stop at the Merch Tent.  Chur

WFFD CALIFORNIA LOVE SPESH!!!! 4/11/09

Good morning, good evening check the latest WFFD radio show broadcasting now on Radio FFD.  This week MC Slave is mixing up a California and Amoeba in-store love spesh, Aotearoa NZ Summer Shakedown announcee and funky music vibes - DJ Vadim Big BW remix, Shiverman live and more. GOOD SHIT!

EXTRA TICKETS FOR POWERSTATION 3/11/09

We're pleased to announce we have a handful of extra tickets being released for The Powerstation gigs in Auckland this weekend.  If you've missed out get in quick -  there are an extra 60 tickets for Friday night and 50 tickets for Saturday available right now from Ticketmaster.

Shout out to everyone who attended our Album Shakedown show at The Front Room last Saturday. As Fitchie said "we smashed it again".

Exclusive Summer Shakedown Pre-Sales 30/10/09

Word up - we've got exclusive Summer Shakedown ticket pre-sales online from Ticketmaster & Amplifier this Thursday 5th November 2009.  General sales kick off Monday 9th November 2009. Chur.

Aotearoa Summer Shakedown 29/10/09

We're pleased to announce The Summer Shakedown Tour bringing our music home to choice Kiwi holiday hot spots this December and January.  Once again escaping the clutches of Dr Boondigga & The Big BW robot we're on the road to Mt Maunganui, Coroglen and Waihi Beach in late December, Riwaka at the top of the South Island for New Years Eve and finish up with a two-night finale in Mangawhai in early January.  We hope you like this Flashback newsflash.  Tumeke eh!

Album Shakedown Selling Fast 29/10/09

The SOLD OUT! sign is up for this weekends Halloween special at The Front Room in Wellington, Amsterdam and San Francisco. Next in the sell out line will be the Friday night fever show at The Powerstation in Auckland while our debut show at The Roxy in L.A is close to the wire.  Thanks to everyone who has purchased tickets to date.  Sweet As!

Support Maranui & The Camel 22/10/09

As Lyall Bay's International Ambassadors we're appealing to folk around the world and in Wellington especially to support the restoration of Maranui Surf Life Saving Club's iconic building.  The building which is home to our beloved Maranui Surf Club Cafe, a favourite kai and coffee haunt by the seaside, was sadly gutted by fire recently. We're now kicking sand the way of Wellington City Council to ensure the historic building is restored and not demolished for a 'Super Building'.  The Maranui Camel was the star of 'The Camel' single cover artwork and music video and a photo of Maranui and Lyall Bay beach featured on BOATS.  The Camel survived the fire and is being restored - now we need help to get Maranui back to full glory.  Sign the ePetition now.

Exciting WFFD 22/10/09

Listen to Radio WFFD for another exciting episode with MC Slave complete with house rules, smooth grooves and special greetings and love to our people in Australia who ripped it up over the weekend.  Thanks also to Inertia peeps in Sydney who hosted Dobie Blaze and Freddy's for a Kiss Da Cook paua wonton throw down. We'll have photos featuring Aussie action real soon.

Party In The Sydney Kitchen 18/10/09

Hey Sydney thanks for the party in the kitchen at The Forum last night.  What an amazing chorus you continue to be with the sing-along flavor turning up the heat on the likes of The Nod, Shiverman, Boondigga and Ernie.  One more bad-ho jelly roll to shake loose tonight at The Forum.

Album Shakedown Tour Kicks Off 17/10/09

Our Album Shakedown Tour officially kicked off in Australia with a spectacular sell out show in Melbourne last night and two sell out shows to go in Sydney.  Freddy extras from Welli got the nod through Customs early this morning with a special delivery of paua destined for a Dobie Blaze cook up next week with the good folk at Inertia our Austrlaian distributor.  Big thanks to Ari and Nathan for the pick up in their silver 1965 Cadillac Coupe deVille.

Wellington and Auckland shows are next and then it is shakedown time for Europe and USA - snap those tickets up now.

Red Carpet & Best Roots 14/10/09

Check our red carpet action at the NZ Music Awards 2009 & scooping the Best Aotearoa Roots Album Award for Dr Boondigga & The Big BW on Fat Freddy's Drop TV Feature Video.

HIP DROP DJ Set @ Khuja 13/10/09

HIP DROP returns: Freddy's DJ set featuring DJ Fitchie, MC Slave & Chopper Reeds dropping the science all night long at Khuja in Auckland on Friday 23rd October 2009.  Free b4 midnight.

Mean Maori Mean 13/10/09

Keepin it local styles - an interview featuring Jetlag Johnson and Dobie Blaze dropped recently on Ma Tatou on Maori TV.  You can check their korero online at Ma Tatou .  Chur to Lanita & the crew - mean Maori mean.

Hot WFFD Drop Ft Vadim Remix 12/10/09

Tune in now to Radio WFFD ‘cos MC Slave is on fire. The latest session features special guest DJ Phaze in the mix, Oz hype and Cali hype from Slave aka the ‘Cisco kid’ plus an exclusive Freddy’s remix from DJ Vadim featuring Yarah Brava.  Tumeke people.

Best Roots 9/10/09

We’ve snapped up a Tui for Aotearoa Roots Album at the NZ Music Awards with ‘Dr Boondigga & The Big BW’ to add to the Best Producer award picked up last month.  Congrats to the other winners including Ladi6 who scored a Tui for Best Urban / Hip Hop Album with ‘Time Is Not Much’ and Ladyhawke who swooped in and bagged a total of six Tui awards.

Boondigga Double Platinum 5/10/09

We're pleased to announce Dr Boondigga & The Big BW has passed Double Platinum sales in Aotearoa NZ.  Rythmethod our local distributor says the 30,000 mark was passed with Physical stock (CD and Vinyl) shipped out from RM HQ of over x26,500 and Digital sales of around x3,700. Too much people.  Chur.

Gillett Digs Dr Boondigga 5/10/09

'Warning: of the nine tracks here, only two run for less than six minutes, and both of them stretch way past five. You had better be of a patient disposition, and the album may well have been designed on the assumption that you would be listening under the influence of something to help you relax.'

And that is just the opening of a review of Dr Boondigga & The Big BW by Charlie Gillett in The Observer this past weekend. Gillett first dug Freddy's with the release of Hope on 10" vinyl back in 2003 but he wasn't a fan of Based On A True Story.  With Dr Boondigga & The Big BW he's awarded 4/5 stars so it seems we've won him back.

'So how come this leopard is prepared to change his spots? Partly, it is down to the beguiling vocal tone of lead singer Dallas Tamaira, which often brings to mind the sublime voice of Aaron Neville on the Neville Brothers' masterwork, Yellow Moon. But that doesn't explain everything because there are times when Dallas takes a back seat and leaves the musicians to carry the weight, notably on the epic Shiverman which could have easily slipped onto the soundtrack of Trainspotting alongside Born Slippy by Underworld.'

Thanks Tamara for the tip off.

Fresh Nod On WFFD 3/10/09

MC Slave has cooked up a fresh WFFD session live from the campfire.  Get into it.
Little note - voting for the NZ Music Awards People's Choice closes 4th October.

Top Cat 2/10/09

Dr Boondigga & The Big BW is holding the #1 spot on the Independent Music New Zealand Top 20 Album charts and has now notched up a total of 18 weeks at the top spot. Sitting at #18 on the charts is Based On A True Story.  Sweet.  
On the official NZ Music Charts the Platinum selling Dr Boondigga has been bouncing around the top twenty spots and is this week at #12.  Dr Boondigga originally hit the charts at #1 for five weeks straight.  Chur Freddy whanau for the aroha.

Dr Boondigga Korero 29/09/09

Listen to Freddy's word on Dr Boondigga & The Big BW broadcasting now on Radio WFFD.  Chur

Making Our Way To San Francisco 28/09/09

We're stoked to announce a gig at the Independent in San Francisco on 19th November as part of our Album Shakedown tour. The support from locals in California has been awesome; we've had emails and hook ups that have been invaluable in making this gig happen.  Our other confirmed gigs in USA are The Roxy in L.A and World Beat Centre in San Diego.  See you there!

Sorry we can't make it to the likes of Hermosa Beach, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz or Seattle this time - thanks for the offers, but we are aiming to make a return to California in 2010 so we'll keep working towards that.

San Diego Venue Change 24/09/09

Hi Freddy people in USA

We've got a change of venue for our San Diego Album Shakedown - now playing World Beat Centre on 21st November 2009. The Roxy in L.A is still on the cards for 20th November however Hermosa Beach has slipped off the USA tiki tour schedule. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates.

Good For You Radio WFFD 24/09/09

MC Slave is in the house with Radio WFFD broadcasting from Auckland City exclusively on Radio FFD. Right on!  Special greetz to regular WFFD witness Sista One Love.

Vinyl Good Times + Welli Ticket Comp 18/09/09

Greetings and thanks to everyone who joined us for the Dr Boondigga & The Big BW vinyl in-store signing at Slow Boat Records.  Check the action on our Gallery where we've just uploaded photos by Harry A'Court from Inject.  Chur bro and chur to Jeremy and the crew at Slow Boat for making it all happen.

We've left a little stash of tickets at Slow Boat for you to win to the Album Shakedown gig in Wellington 31st October.  Purchase any Freddy's vinyl or cd from Slow Boat and go in the draw for a double pass ticket.  Winners will be announced Friday 23rd October.

Second Shakedown for Powerstation 21/09/09

We're pleased to announce a second show at The Powerstation in Auckland as part of the Album Shakedown Tour - tickets on sale now for Friday 6th November. The original show on Saturday 7th November is pretty much Sold Out.  Too much Aukalani!

Amsterdam Shakedown Confirmed 14/09/09

We're pleased to add Amsterdam to the Album Shakedown Tour.  We'll be playing Paradiso on 26th November.  Tickets on sale soon.

Wellington In-Store Signing 14/09/09

Freddy’s invites you to our Vinyl Release exclusive in-store signing at Slow Boat Records, Wellington this Thursday lunchtime. Head on down to the vinyl junkie heartland on Cuba Street between 12.00PM and 1.00PM Thursday 17th September and pick up a copy of Dr Boondigga & The Big BW vinyl LP and we’ll be there to add a tag or two.

Heavyweight Vinyl & WFFD 14/09/09

Dr Boondigga & The Big BW double gatefold vinyl is today officially in-stores worldwide and online from our Merch Tent.   For all those who took the opportunity to pre-order check your post boxes now and if you haven't - shake that shiverman loose and reward yourself a copy.

MC Slave has dropped us a new Radio WFFD show to celebrate the occasion and he's keeping us on our dancing toes with some fresh Album Shakedown tour news.

Dr's Orders 10/09/09

We're pleased to announce that Dr Boondigga & The Big BW double gatefold vinyl has landed in Lyall Bay NZ.  Available next week in-stores worldwide and online from our Merch Tent.  Tumeke.  Get in fast, limited stock of a collectable wonder.

Album Shakedown Ticket News 10/09/09

Tickets for our Wellington show at The Front Room are available right now from Real Groovy Records and they'll be online next week from amplifier.co.nz.

Ticketmaster is running a special members only pre-sale for The Powerstation from Monday 14th September.  Available to the general public from Weds 16th September from Ticketmaster as well as Real Groovy and amplifier.co.nz.

Over the waves, tickets are on sale now for Melbourne, Sydney, Berlin, Paris, London and Manchester shows. Tickets for L.A and San Diego on sale soon.

Boondigga Video Live 7/09/09

Kia Ora, our nu music video Boondigga is live & cooking on Fat Freddy's Drop TV in a worldwide exclusive premiere.  Check out the Feature Video on Freddys TV and we'll be back with more details. Chur.

Mash It Up 5/09/09

We're cooking with gas on the Mash Up DJ guest playlist on Radio FFD.  Check some fresh audio mixes from Christopher Tubbs Heads Down Radio podcast, Mikki Dee  aka Sir Mix-a-lot with Sweet Soundz 9, Turnaround Turnstyles 3 by Manuel Bundy, Cian and Submariner, and a freak mix from Kava. Chur to the bro selectors.

Gig Action Expansion 4/09/09

Freddy's USA rumble is on folks with Canes in San Diego scoring a gig this November to add to the recently announced shakedown at The Roxy in L.A. Back on home turf and looking to 2010 we've got a couple of sweet summer festival drops - Parihaka Peace Festival in Taranaki and Rippon Festival down in Wanaka. Check Gig Guide for more details.

Shakedown Europe & L.A 3/09/09

Freddy's is pleased to announce gigs for Berlin, Paris and London this November plus the very choice news that we're stopping off in L.A for our debut USA showdown.  Check Gig Guide for dates.  Tickets on Sale real soon.

Vote for Freddy's 3/09/09

Hi Freddy's people

Shameless vote hustling - we'd love for you to help us win the coveted People's Choice Award at the 44th annual NZ Music Awards.

There are three ways to cast your votes:

TXT  - txt ARTISTS NAME to 787
PXT – Pxt your face with your name in the subject or text space to 787.
ONLINE – go to vmusic to register to vote and view our homebaked “Campaign video”

Everyone who votes goes in the draw to win a “VIP experience” at the VNZMA’s including the chance to present the award to the winner on the night in front of thousands.

WHO CAN ENTER?  Anyone can vote via TXT | Vodafone customers can vote via PXT | You must be registered on vmusic.co.nz to vote online | You must be 18 years of age or older to win the prize.

Voting has commenced and will close at 5pm on 4th October 2009.
We appreciate your choice support

Chur
Freddy

Statue Bro? 2/09/09

Fat Freddy's Drop picked up Best Producer for Dr Boondigga and the Big BW at the 2009 New Zealand Music Awards 'technical gongs' ceremony held earlier this evening in Aukalani city.  Chur for the nod.

The other news from the soiree, we've picked up four nominations for Album of The Year, Best Group, Best Aotearoa Roots Album and People's Choice Award to be announced at the 44th annual music awards main event in October - the same awards Freddy's won in 2005 for Based On A True Story.

Commiserations to our bro Otis ‘flying tables’ Frizzell who was nominated for Best Album Cover and to Fitchie nominated for Best Engineer in the just run technical awards categories.  You’re forever champions.

WFFD + Boondigga Breakthrough 1/09/09

Just landed, another exciting installment of Radio WFFD from MC Slave.

Tune in and catch the number one sound worldwide including an MPC championship track from vibe master Dobie Blaze and the good good news about the just finished Boondigga music video.

Starring Fat Freddy’s Drop VS the evil Dr Boondigga, the video was directed by Mark Williams aka MC Slave. Get it. Our fresh as Boondigga music video will premiere on Fat Freddy’s Drop TV.  Date TBC.

AOTEAROA ALBUM SHAKEDOWN 26/08/09

Whether missing in action or abducted we’ll never know, but Freddy's is set to return to the stage for two shows only in Wellington and Auckland.

Fitchie at Freddy’s mission control says to expect tracks from Dr Boondigga & The Big BW, some FFD classics and would you believe - new experiments direct from Freddy’s beat kitchen.

For a taste of Freddy’s jamming ‘Shiverman’ the trance thriller on Dr Boondigga & The Big BW, check Fat Freddy's Drop TV to view our exclusive and epic 17 minute clip filmed live at The Roundhouse, London in late 2008.

Aussie Tour 18/08/09

Hi Aussie people

We're pleased to confirm Fat Freddy’s Drop are taking to the stage in Melbourne and Sydney this October.  Tickets On Sale 19/8/09. Check Gig Guide for more details.

Did You Know? 13/08/09

"FFD is the bugged out love child of Isaac Hayes and Lee Scratch Perry."
Garth Trinidad KCRW Los Angeles, U.S

"Soul music of the finest kind."
Graham Reid - Elsewhere Auckland, N.Z

Dr Boondigga & The Big BW is available from our Merch Tent and in-store NZ and Australia. Across the seven seas, Dr Boondigga has reached Czech, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Holland, Norway, Netherlands and UK. Hitting USA late September.

Heavyweight double Gatefold vinyl is out of the lab and the test pressing from Berlin got the nod. Pre-orders are rolling, release date is near. Stay tuned.

Record Store people around the world you're welcome to apply to become a FFD Dealer now.  Authorized FFD wholesale export dealers score a One Gram Freight & Shipping deal until end of August. Chur.

Flash As 10/08/09

We've scored nominations for Dr Boondigga & The Big BW in all three technical award categories of this year's New Zealand Music Awards.

Artist Otis Frizzell got the nod for Best Album Cover, Fitchie for Best Engineer and Fat Freddy's Drop for Best Producer. Winners to be announced on September 2 when the finalists for the main music awards will be revealed.

Chur to the chur

Fat Freddy's Drop TV LIVE 11/08/09

Resn has flicked the switch and Fat Freddy's Drop TV is LIVE.

Check our bountiful collection of True Stories, Music Video and Kiss Da Cook foodeos.  The debut Feature is an epic 17 minute clip of Shiverman Live at The Roundhouse, London. Visitors to Fat Freddy's Drop TV can customize your own Playlist and send to your mate. Choice.

We've also been gathering a choice collection of photos for our Gallery slideshows. The photos on this page are a small taster. Black and white shots from WOMAD by Jenny Raoult and the Big BW Tour 2008 by Nell Winton aka Sanellie.

Frozzen Presentamos a Freddy 8/08/09

We've been making friends in Spain with Jorge and Domingo at Frozzen Magazine - Crushed Stuff online. Loving the spread they've done on Freddy's in Issue 2.  Too much Frozzen.