Hailing from the deep Polynesian stronghold of South Auckland, SHEPHERDS REIGN have stamped their powerful mark on the New Zealand and international music scene in a very short amount of time, creating a huge buzz from their live shows. Combining the traditional and ancient music of their forefathers with modern rock and metal influences including bands like Gojira, Avenged Sevenfold and Dream Theater, Shepherds Reign have found their own unique sound in a cluttered and overblown musical environment.
Unlike any heavy artist, Shepherds Reign bring a captivating and enthralling sound with the use of the Samoan language, instruments and culture, making it an integral part of their live show.
The bands authentic sound comes from the strength of the members and, led by the towering presence of Filivaa James (vocals and keytar) whose incredible stage persona, huge voice and virtuosic keyboard skills command attention. Guitarists Gideon Voon and Oliver Leupolu (who also handles production) are not only extraordinarily capable but totally confident with their incredible twisting duel guitar melodies and gargantuan riffs. The bombastic Shaymen Rameka on drums and the monolithic presence of bassist Joseph Oti-George round out the lineup with a crushing, truculent and propulsive rhythm section that takes no prisoners.
The evocative and primal live show displays a fierce pride for their music that wins the audience every time with its blood pumping ritualistic beats, thick melodic textures and an undeniable power that hooks the audience into the bands dark and heavy realm completely.
A fifteen date tour of New Zealand as special guests of Devilskins’ RED NZ tour 2020 (one of the first tours in the world post-lockdown) cemented a place for Shepherds Reign as a force to be reckoned with and won them a huge swathe of new fans. Paul Martin, bassist for Devilskin and producer of The Axe Attack commented “I totally knew our audience would love these guys! I can’t remember being this excited over a band for a long time. They completely blow me away with everything they do, attitude, commitment, passion and an unashamedly distinctive sound. But the real magic is in the songs. Powerful, compelling and totally undeniable.”
The band’s previous single Le Manu has garnered huge praise and has had almost 2 million YouTube views. The new single Aiga promises even more. Made with support from NZ On Air, the stunning video shot by Dave Thompson from Imaginary Friends captures the gravitas of the song beautifully, it’s sheer power and class.
A brutally powerful song live, Aiga (‘family’ in Samoan) and is a nod to the support and love the band have for and from their family, friends and community. “My Mum used to sing me to sleep with this song.” Muses Filivaa, testament to the emotional bond the band has with their music. But do not think for one second this is a lullaby. The song is heavy and arresting with its combination of deep metal grooves and ancient ancestry. It has power, an intimidating presence and indisputable hooks. The perfect showcase for this extremely talented and united band.
Shepherds Reign have the chemistry, the heart, power and especially the songs to hit the international stages alongside any of their heroes. Welcome to their Aiga.