First Thursdays: Helium Project - The Sound of Steel

Join us for First Thursdays in Devonport - Te Hau Kapua

Helium Project’s new show The Sound of Steel is a suite of music composed by Nick Edgar to showcase an array of beautifully hand crafted percussion instruments created by designer, musician and steel fabricator Gary Hunt.

Music has always had a significant influence on Gary’s design aesthetic with his fabrication skills honed making industrial instruments. In the late 1970’s Gary was the drummer for the Terrorways, a crowd favourite at the infamous punk dive Zwines. Since the 1980s Gary has combined his musical and engineering backgrounds to make percussion instruments.

The instruments featuring in this show are works of art in their own right, and functioning percussion instruments, opening up wide composition opportunities to wrap around a percussive soundscape.

Devonport local Nick Edgar, leads the 7-piece Helium Project made up of talented multi-instrumentalists. Expect a visual and sonic treat as Helium Project transport the audience with their suite of neo-classical, electronic, ambient material.

Tickets: $45

7:30pm: Doors open, refreshments provided courtesy of our hospitality partner Toi Toi wines
8-9pm: Helium Project - The Sound of Steel

About Helium Project

Nick Edgar is a versatile composer and multi-instrumentalist based in Devonport. With a diverse musical range spanning multiple genres, he is a co-writer for the indie-folk band Hoop and the creator and leader of the dynamic 15-piece funk ensemble, The Wonderfish Collective. His latest project, the neo-classical and electronic Helium Project, explores innovative soundscapes, and includes a show created to celebrate Matariki. Nick’s current collaboration, Sounds of Steel, is an exciting partnership with artist Gary Hunt, merging music and visual art in a unique, cutting-edge performance.

Gary Hunt is a seasoned artisan with over 35 years of experience. Working from his self-built studio and workshop in Auckland, he creates sculptures, designs and crafts furniture, and explores experimental music. His work has been compared to that of renowned sculptor and furniture designer Harry Bertoia, with early inspiration drawn from Jean Tinguely’s kinetic art. Hunt has showcased his work in exhibitions both nationally and internationally.

The Musicians:

Nick Edgar – Flute, Synth, Percussion
Gary Hunt – Percussion
Toby Edgar – Synth, Percussion
Mark Hannington – Bass, Percussion
Cam McLean – Keys, Synth
Helen Crook – Violin
Sophie Buxton – Viola
Zoe Triggs – Percussion, Vocals

Photo Credit: Josh and Rebecka Stinson