The self-styled retro futuristic groove merchants known as Astro Empire play a blend of acid jazz, soul, rhythm 'n' blues and funk.
They started playing energetic live shows in mid-2011 after six months of composing and rehearsing.
The two frontmen and songwriters, Louis Thompson-Munn on keys and Dave Kempton on guitar, take turns as lead singer.
The next pair is the rhythm section of Leon Philipsen on bass and Shaun Anderson on drums.
The final pairing is the horn section of Ben Hunt on trumpet and Jake Baxendale on saxophone.
Astro Empire begins its South Island tour at Chick's Hotel, Dunedin, on January 12, then take in Dux de Lux, Queenstown, on January 13 and Opium bar, Wanaka, on January 14, followed by Onekaka and Golden Bay.
Picks of the Week
TODAY
10pm: Camo MC, of Christchurch, hosts Battle of the Basslines: dubstep v drum'n'bass, Subculture, with DJs Rubix, Brassic, Lightly Toasted and Mr Lee. Free before 11pm, $5 afterwards.
10pm: Wellington band Mercury Crowe rock Dux de Lux. Free.
TOMORROW
Noon: Dux de Lux and Subculture unite to offer TAOS Live and TAOS Sound System, plus D-Jade, Skeptik, Synchronic, Deech, Houdini, Fourtwenty, JC Bass-E, Skutch at both Church St venues. Presales $20 from the bars, Quest and Dash Tickets online.
7.30pm: Thousands gather to welcome 2012 with live music and fireworks. Bands include Master Blasters and Crystal Set, with DJ Asbro, Hand Solo and Dan Move and guest DJs on the Memorial Gate stage. Free.
9pm: An unnamed band plays at Harry's Pool Bar. Tickets $10 from the bar and Betty's Liquor Stores. No door sales.
10pm: New Orleans Hotel, Arrowtown, presents Cropduster, a rock covers and originals band from Christchurch. Free.
