Sabrina Amoriello

New Zealand-based artist Arthur Ahbez, known for his lo-fi acid folk and 60s-inspired rock, has shared his latest single, “Take It Easy,” with his band, The Flaming Ahbez. The track, now available on all major streaming platforms, marks another creative evolution for Ahbez, blending his signature psychedelic folk style with fresh influences from 60s bubble-gum pop and surf rock. Following previous singles such as “Sister” and “A Simple Medication,” “Take It Easy” has already generated praise from publications like Americana UK and Magnet for its innovative sound and lyrical depth.

In “Take It Easy,” Ahbez’s songwriting takes listeners on a lyrical journey through themes of journalistic integrity, teenage rebellion, and heartbreak, all wrapped in an ominous opening line: “Hey little girl / scratching the eyes out of the world.” The track evolves into a passionate, high-energy crescendo, with drummer Chad Douglas’s contributions giving it a dynamic, live intensity. “The majority of the recording was tracked live,” says Ahbez, emphasizing the natural energy between himself and his bandmates. The single stands as a testament to Ahbez’s ongoing experimentation, pushing boundaries while staying rooted in his folk-rock origins.

Arthur Ahbez & The Flaming Ahbez’s self-titled album is set for release on November 8, 2024. This album brings together Ahbez with band members Hamish Scott (bass), Joe Ghatt (guitar), Chay Douglas (drums), and Ryan Ballinger (percussion, backing vocals) to deliver a cohesive yet eclectic collection that channels the raw, unfiltered power of their live performances. Recorded in Auckland with engineer Joseph Faris, the album presents ten tracks that weave through psychedelic soundscapes, retro rock and roll, and folk, exploring Ahbez’s musical roots and his quest for sonic enlightenment.

Arthur’s journey as an artist began in 2013 with the release of Gold, a self-produced album that set the stage for his folk-rock style. His sophomore release, Volume II, took his sound further, mixing British folk influences with a love of 60s rock. Now, with Arthur Ahbez & The Flaming Ahbez, he delves deeper into psychedelic, blending existential themes with retro arrangements that resonate with both vintage and modern audiences. The album includes tracks like “Reckless,” “Hot Poop!,” and “Cool Water,” each offering a unique piece of Ahbez’s genre-blending puzzle.

Listeners and fans can expect a continuation of Ahbez’s trademark mix of wit, nostalgia, and existential angst throughout the album. His distinct sound is underscored by vivid reverb and electrifying guitar work, culminating in a grand musical experience that serves as both a homage to and a reinterpretation of the golden age of rock and roll. With the release of “Take It Easy” a a preview, Arthur Ahbez & The Flaming Ahbez promises to be a defining album for the New Zealand artist, offering an immersive escape into a world of folk-laden rock, tinged with psychedelic exploration and a retro charm.

Album Tracklist for Arthur Ahbez & The Flaming Ahbez:

1. Sister
2. A Simple Medication
3. A to G
4. A Song For Jim
5. Late Night Empty Pocket Blues
6. Take It Easy
7. Reckless
8. Hot Poop!
9. Lost Sleep
10. Cool Water

Catch the full album, Arthur Ahbez & The Flaming Ahbez, out today, November 8, 2024, on all streaming platforms. With its rich arrangements and fearless style, it’s sure to captivate new listeners and devoted fans alike.