New Way 1980-82
The Newtones were a highly respected Christchurch post-punk/new wave band of the early 1980s. As one of the first acts to fully embrace a proto-indie approach — self-funding their releases and retaining complete creative control in an era when there was virtually no industry support — they helped lay the groundwork for the vibrant Christchurch independent music scene.Active just before Flying Nun Records launched, their fiercely independent spirit inspired the DIY model that Flying Nun would turn into an international success. The band also inspired Failsafe Records founder Rob Mayes, who first saw the band as a teenager and had his mind blown by their powerful instrumental “4 Ships” — a track thought never recorded, prompting Failsafe to stop the loss of local content, which it has successfully done ever since, and now full circle to return the favour for the Newtones.
Blending sharp indie powerpop with post-punk energy, the trio — singer/guitarist Tony Peake, bassist Mark Brooks and drummer Graeme van der Colk built a strong local following during their prolific 18-month career. Known for their confident, eclectic sound, they mixed original material with inventive covers, developed songs live through improvisation, and delivered high-energy sets that often featured front-of-house effects and experimental elements from soundman Fred Kramer.They released two self-funded vinyl records — the “Paint The Town Red” EP and the “My World” single — plus the track “New Way” on the Propeller Records Class of ’81 compilation, and the posthumous "All Over the World" on Fsilsafe's Accident compilation . This collection brings together extensively remastered versions of all their known studio recordings along with restored live material for a total of 15 tracks, including the thought lost “4 Ships” that directly inspired the creation of Failsafe Records.
The band played prolifically around Christchurch and helped establish the Gladstone Hotel as the cornerstone venue for original post-punk and independent music.This collection from Failsafe Records finally gives their legacy the platform it deserves. The Newtones disbanded in early 1982 before they could properly record many of their standout live tracks, and much of their music was thought lost — until live tapes from singer/guitarist Tony Peake’s personal collection surfaced. Using modern restoration and remastering techniques, these recordings now deliver a powerful, permanent document of The Newtones at their best. The band themselves are thrilled with the result.CD purchases include a complimentary download code featuring bonus tracks not available on the physical album.
Original: $17.85
-70%$17.85
$5.36
Description
The Newtones were a highly respected Christchurch post-punk/new wave band of the early 1980s. As one of the first acts to fully embrace a proto-indie approach — self-funding their releases and retaining complete creative control in an era when there was virtually no industry support — they helped lay the groundwork for the vibrant Christchurch independent music scene.Active just before Flying Nun Records launched, their fiercely independent spirit inspired the DIY model that Flying Nun would turn into an international success. The band also inspired Failsafe Records founder Rob Mayes, who first saw the band as a teenager and had his mind blown by their powerful instrumental “4 Ships” — a track thought never recorded, prompting Failsafe to stop the loss of local content, which it has successfully done ever since, and now full circle to return the favour for the Newtones.
Blending sharp indie powerpop with post-punk energy, the trio — singer/guitarist Tony Peake, bassist Mark Brooks and drummer Graeme van der Colk built a strong local following during their prolific 18-month career. Known for their confident, eclectic sound, they mixed original material with inventive covers, developed songs live through improvisation, and delivered high-energy sets that often featured front-of-house effects and experimental elements from soundman Fred Kramer.They released two self-funded vinyl records — the “Paint The Town Red” EP and the “My World” single — plus the track “New Way” on the Propeller Records Class of ’81 compilation, and the posthumous "All Over the World" on Fsilsafe's Accident compilation . This collection brings together extensively remastered versions of all their known studio recordings along with restored live material for a total of 15 tracks, including the thought lost “4 Ships” that directly inspired the creation of Failsafe Records.
The band played prolifically around Christchurch and helped establish the Gladstone Hotel as the cornerstone venue for original post-punk and independent music.This collection from Failsafe Records finally gives their legacy the platform it deserves. The Newtones disbanded in early 1982 before they could properly record many of their standout live tracks, and much of their music was thought lost — until live tapes from singer/guitarist Tony Peake’s personal collection surfaced. Using modern restoration and remastering techniques, these recordings now deliver a powerful, permanent document of The Newtones at their best. The band themselves are thrilled with the result.CD purchases include a complimentary download code featuring bonus tracks not available on the physical album.
