Glenn Turner’s ‘Breathless’ & New NZ Music Releases | Spotify Playlist
- The music world continues to offer surprising turns, and a recent wave of releases demonstrates that creativity knows no age limit.
- At 78, Glenn Turner, a name synonymous with New Zealand cricket, has released “Breathless,” a deeply personal song dedicated to his late brother, Brian.
- The project highlights a familial connection that extends beyond sporting and artistic achievement.
The music world continues to offer surprising turns, and a recent wave of releases demonstrates that creativity knows no age limit. From a cricket legend’s poignant tribute to his brother to established artists exploring new sonic territories, the landscape is rich with compelling stories.
At 78, Glenn Turner, a name synonymous with New Zealand cricket, has released “Breathless,” a deeply personal song dedicated to his late brother, Brian. The track, featuring collaborations with Lawrence Arabia, Riki Gooch, and musicians from Plan 9, isn’t Turner’s first foray into artistic expression, but it’s a particularly moving one. As noted by Russell Baillie, the song carries the weight of Brian Turner’s environmental campaigning for Central Otago, incorporating archival footage from his brother’s work. The result, Baillie writes, is “guilelessly affecting,” evoking a plaintive Willie Nelson filtered through the landscapes of the Maniototo, with a visual aesthetic reminiscent of Johnny Cash in cricket whites.
The project highlights a familial connection that extends beyond sporting and artistic achievement. Brian Turner, a celebrated poet laureate, transitioned from a high-achieving sportsman to a literary figure, a path mirrored, albeit later in life, by his brother’s musical endeavor. “Breathless” isn’t positioned as a chart-topping ambition, but rather as a heartfelt tribute, a testament to a shared history and a continuation of Brian’s legacy.
Beyond Turner’s unexpected release, several established artists are also making waves. Norah Jones, known for her Grammy-winning solo work and piano skills, has teamed up with Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age for a rendition of “Somethin’ Stupid,” the classic Sinatra duet. This collaboration stems from Jones’ podcast series, Playing Along with Norah Jones, which began in 2023, showcasing her versatility as a musician and accompanist. The pairing, Baillie notes, is a playful take on a song famously associated with Frank and Nancy Sinatra, adding a fresh dynamic to a well-known classic.
Iggy Pop, a perennial icon of rock and roll, continues to explore collaborative projects. His recent duet with British guitarist Anna Calvi, “God’s Lonely Man,” is described as a “glam rock” infused track, drawing parallels to Pop’s earlier work like “The Passenger.” The song, with its themes of longing and introspection, is part of an upcoming EP from Calvi featuring collaborations with Perfume Genius, Laurie Anderson, and Matt Berninger.
New Zealand artists are also contributing to the vibrant musical landscape. Hemi Hemingway’s “Promises” is a preview of his forthcoming album, Wings of Desire, scheduled for release on . Graham Reid describes the song as “widescreen-then-intimate,” showcasing Hemingway’s ability to blend cinematic soundscapes with deeply personal lyrics. The track features Georgia Gets By, adding a complementary vocal texture to Hemingway’s powerful delivery.
Vera Ellen, a multi-award-winning artist, offers “Gayfever,” a song that tackles themes of sexual identity with her signature left-field pop sensibility. Reid highlights the song’s clever structure and metaphorical depth, noting its potential for singalong appeal. The track is a precursor to her upcoming album, Heaven Knows What Time, due in May.
Lontalius presents “My Best Friend,” a bittersweet reflection on the experiences of friends venturing abroad, capturing a sense of longing and contemplation. TiGER’s “Chameleon” delves into the complexities of relationships and ambition, showcasing a mature indie-rock sound. Sola Rosa, featuring Blush’ko, delivers “What You Need,” a dancefloor-oriented track with a blend of electronic and soulful elements. Anjimile’s “Waits for me” offers a more accessible sound from the artist, hinting at a shift in direction for their upcoming album, You’re Free To Go, set for release on .
Rounding out the diverse collection is Fables’ “Eyes Closed,” a country-tinged track produced by Reb Fountain and Dave Khan, and Play For Keeps’ “Handsome Boy,” a sharp critique of ambition and power dynamics. Finally, a classical offering, Wagner’s “Träume” from the Wesendonck Lieder, performed by Jessye Norman and the London Symphony Orchestra under Colin Davis, provides a moment of timeless beauty and emotional depth.
These releases, spanning genres and generations, demonstrate the enduring power of music to connect, inspire, and reflect the human experience. From the unexpected artistic turn of a sporting legend to the continued evolution of established artists, the current musical landscape is a testament to the boundless creativity of the human spirit.