Waikato band follows in footsteps of top artists with win

‘Smoked Paprika’ from Hillcrest High School in Hamilton have put Waikato on the map after taking out the top title at the national final of Smokefree Rockquest in Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland).

With it came a $10,000 cash prize towards musical equipment as well as a recording, video and promo grant.

The five piece group are made up of students, Ephraim Frame (lead guitar), Ollie Neil (rhythm guitar, saxophone, vocals), Arlo Oliver (keyboard, synthesizer), Josh Hogarty (drums), and Sage Garrett (bass).

‘‘We had an absolute blast at the @rockquest finals and are so honoured to come first,’’ the band said on Facebook.

‘‘The talent from the acts was incredible and the Rockquest team was so amazing to work with. Thank you to everyone involved who helped make this journey so special.’’

Smokefree Rockquest has been capturing fresh talent and live New Zealand music for the past30 years. The nationwide competition, hosts heats from Whā ngarei to Invercargill in search of the next up-and-coming talent and ‘‘aims to motivate young musicians to strive for success, to realise the opportunities available in music careers, and to encourage their peers to support original New Zealand music’’.

With other successful names like Drax Project, Teeks, Anika Moa, Troy Kingi, The Black Seeds and Nesian Mystik all making their mark in past events, the competition has become a stomping ground for young artists to kick-start their careers.

Competition judge Hamish Jackson (NZ Rockshop) commented on the quality of performance by ‘Smoked Paprika’ stating that they commanded and brought an energy to the stage.

‘‘To get to the finals you have to be in command of what you do.

‘‘Smoked Paprika connected well with the audience and they brought a great vibe.

‘‘It will be great to see how they take what they discovered here, and see where they go next.’’

Updates from the band can be found on their Instagram — smoked paprika official and Facebook – Smoked Paprika.