Rockers shift into high gear

Back to shed light on the local music scene is Hutt rock band Alphashift, launching their debut album at Bodega on Saturday night.

Called Light In The Darkest Night, the release is a major event for the hard-working band. The first single off the album, A Thousand Voices, is a high-energy rock song typical of the group's sound.

It's been nearly 10 months since the lads decided to take a hiatus from performing and concentrate on their first album.

"It has been a real shift in gear for a band that draws its raw energy from the live atmosphere," said spokesman Jeremy Wheeler, "but they have become more focused because of it".

An injury to drummer Innes Hutchison's shoulder requiring surgery added to the slow down.

"It's got to be said, musicians and sport never really have mixed."

Alphashift have been converting audiences to their explosive rock style since 2006.

In 2009, they won the New Zealand final of the Global Battle of the Bands, which came with a trip to Sydney to compete in the Australasian final against 19 other acts.

While they didn't take home the big prize, the lads were pleased with the positive response they got from the Australian crowd.

Lead singer Dene Patton and lead guitar Trevor Molloy are veterans of the Wellington music scene. Aided by Innes Hutchison on drums and Fred Glover on bass, the group is known for its ability to get the crowd jumping.

The album is a collaborative effort, Wheeler said, with all members bringing their varied musical tastes and backgrounds to the table.

Their musical influences include many genres from metal to indie, pop-rock to alternative progressive, mixed in with a touch of folk.

- Alphashift album launch, Bodega, 101 Ghuznee St, Wellington, 8pm, Saturday, June 11, entry $5. See alphashift.co.nz.

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