M's video of the week

M really enjoys the videos and music of Rhian Sheehan. There are two in particular she is crazy for "Hiding Place" and "Afternoon on the Moon". In "Hiding place" she likes the little girl, the colors, and the scenes of New Zealand. She frequently asks to watch either this one or her other favorite. I happy that we share a love of music and she likes my favorite artists as well. Rhian Sheehan is one of my very favorites.

Rhian Sheehan "Hiding Place"


A talented, self-taught acoustic guitar player, Rhian Sheehan was introduced to the limitless possibilities of computerbased music making whilst studying composition at Canterbury University. At his Christchurch home, Rhian began recording towards his debut album – Paradigm Shift. Initial tracks focussed on acoustic guitar playing, both solo on 'My Absolution' and alongside Jolyon Mulholland on 'Humoured', with whom Rhian had performed regularly as the Alchemy Duo, touring internationally and playing with the likes of Paul Ubana Jones and Tommy Emmanuel.

Soon, however, the added expressiveness and emotional impact of the acoustic instrument when coupled with electronically generated beats and soundscapes became the basis for a new sound, first evidenced on 'She Walks Into Mine' and the album’s title track. Relocating to Wellington in 2000 opened new opportunities for Rhian – a receptive public were introduced to his music through the inclusion of two songs ('She Walks Into Mine' and 'Garden Children') on LOOP Magazine’s cover CD. The relationship with LOOP was solidified with the offer of an album deal from LOOP Recordings Aot(ear)oa and Paradigm Shift became the first release for the newly formed independent record label in June 2001.

Rhian Sheehan’s debut album 'Paradigm Shift' is regarded as a landmark in NZ electronica and was named New Zealand album of the year by music critic Colin Morris. It has since attracted huge interest from overseas labels. Tracks from Paradigm Shift have been included on seven international compilations including 'Café del Mar Vol. 10'. 'Te Karanga' from 'Tiny Blue Biosphere' has already been snapped up for 'Café del Mar Vol.11'. Rhian Sheehan also features on the 'Barramundi Vol.4' compilation alongside international artists including Jose Padilla, Tosca and Horace Andy. 'Tiny Blue Biosphere' elevates Rhian further into the international domain. Rhian Sheehan has also recently secured international licenses to MTV Europe and the UK’s BBC Channel 4.