Rhombus

Since the release of their 2002 'Bass Player', Rhombus have forged a well-deserved reputation as one of New Zealand's most original and energetic live acts, and have developed a strong following among international audiences for their eclectic and energetic blend of hip-hop, soul, funk and roots-reggae.

Splicing their brew of pacific “Dub & Bass” sound together with socially conscious lyrics, Rhombus have been spreading the word since 2002, touring on both local and international stages & festivals, including Australia and Japan. Their travels on the Japan-based global NGO Peace Boat have also taken them through the Caribbean and the Pacific, spreading the values of sustainability, co-operation, peace and their unique sound across the Pacific .

The Rhombus production trio consists of Thomas Voyce, Simon Rycroft and Koa Williams, who operate from their Wellington-based recording studio and production company. They currently work with an abundance of local vocalists and instrumentalists (studio and live), including Raashi Malik; Anton Carter and Lisa Tomlins. They have also worked alongside artist Tiki Taane, as well as lyrical freestylers Imon Star and MC Mana. The group has created three studio albums, as well as a full-length remix album titled 'Onwards'. Their third, 2008 self-titled album saw guest appearances by internationally renowned vocalists including original Studio One DJ and singer Ranking Joe, as well as conscious Jamaican lyricist Junior Kelly.

Rhombus also collaborates with visual artist Michel Tuffery M.N.Z.M, an acclaimed printmaker, painter and sculptor, who is constantly exploring, collaborating and innovating. In 2008 Michel was honoured with becoming a Member of the New Zealand Merit of Order in the Queens Honours List for services to the Arts and is the youngest recipient for the Arts to be acknowledged.

Their unique sound has put Rhombus at the top of the New Zealand music industry, having performed alongside the likes of St Germain (France); Fat Freddy's Drop (NZ); Salmonella Dub (NZ); Michael Franti (USA); Dry and Heavy (Japan); Gomez (UK); Kora (NZ); Shapeshifter (NZ) and more.

Along the way, Rhombus has picked up numerous awards to attest their talent, including New Zealand's Most Promising New Act at the bNet Music Awards 2002, Best Video for Clav Dub, Best Electronic Album and Best Album at the bNet Music Awards 2003 and Best Aotearoa Roots Album finalist at the NZ Music Awards in 2006.

Photo credit: Jane Wilcox