I’ve always been amazed by the vibrant and diverse soundscape of New Zealand‘s music scene. Yes, the small island nation has produced more than its fair share of internationally acclaimed artists, but, as often happens, I find myself most drawn to the strong independent music culture, diversity, and authenticity that transpires whenever I’ve discovered a fresh act from that part of the world. Tarn PK is the latest Kiwi artist to follow this fine tradition.
It may seem somewhat counterintuitive to write an “introducing” piece for an artist already amassing an impressive 1.6 million streams (just on Spotify), but the Wellington-based musician’s latest single, ‘Papier-Mâché,’ feels like yet another impressive artistic rebirth, adding new elements to his seemingly ever-evolving palette. Here is an artist who continues to confidently paint outside the lines, adding brushstrokes of innovation to what was already a vibrant canvas.
Exploring his history and past output while researching this piece, I became increasingly fascinated by how he approaches his carefully crafted compositions. From the stripped-back simplicity of the 2021 ‘Monarch‘ EP to the hyper-pop exploration in last year’s ‘SugarCoated,’ Tarn PK constantly defies expectations, fearlessly venturing into new and exciting frontiers. There is always a delicate balance between musical exploration and captivating songwriting, and Tarn PK masterfully manages this artistic equilibrium.
Listening to “Papier-Mâché” feels a little like witnessing a painter at work. Its dynamic slow burn, driven by distorted guitars, synthesisers, and nuanced drum patterns, creates an atmosphere where it’s as if he is gradually adding fresh layers of colours. This slow reveal contributes to the overall sense of an artist subtly unveiling their ultimate vision for an intricate masterwork. The track’s ghostly beginnings create a discomfiting yet intriguing atmosphere, paving the way for a captivating experience as the song unfolds. With each listen, I was pleased to discover unexplored nuances I hadn’t quite spotted previously, adding depth to the overall experience. As a listener who particularly revels in sonic experimentation, I found Tarn PK‘s ability to paint with all the right (or should I say wrong) colours truly delightful.
Lyrically, “Papier-Mâché” invites listeners into a personal juncture, navigating the uncertainties of the ‘big wide world‘ post-university. It encapsulates the struggle of feeling directionless in an ‘achievement culture,’ universal themes that will no doubt resonate with many. The decision to fuse introspective lyrics with experimental soundscapes works wonders, ultimately crafting a piece that manages to resonate emotionally. I couldn’t help but appreciate the unique alchemy he achieves between exploration and captivating writing. It’s not merely about trying new things; it’s about striking the right balance in keeping listeners guessing what will come next while holding them engaged and eager for more, much like a painter refining his craft with each stroke.
As we look forward, Tarn PK is already planning his future moves, promising new projects and releases in the new year. It is often said that artists must keep evolving for the sake of their creative sanity and to a lesser extent for the sake of existing and potential fans. I feel it is a testament to the dynamic nature of the creative process—a continual exploration that keeps both the artist and the audience on the edge of discovery.
In that sense, Tarn PK is fulfilling this commitment. While by no means am I suggesting he should rest on his laurels now, I will say that as the year quickly runs down, he can look back at ‘Papier-Mâché‘ and be proud that it stands as a demonstration of an ongoing relentless pursuit of innovation and self-reinvention. I, for one, can’t wait to hear what left turn he has in store for us next!
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