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New Zealand may have lost to Australia in the opening game of the Rugby league world cup - but all is not lost for Aotearoa. Today on Almost Radio we are stepping outside the safe warmth of our indie rock roots and we dive into the electronic dance scene of New Zealand.

Liam K. Swiggs is The Don of The Big Fresh Collective, and has been curating, producing, and featuring in FOOTMAHI compilations for almost a decade. October marks the release of FOOTMAHI WORLD CUP 2026, and also Liam's final hurrah at the helm of BFC.

FOOTMAHI WORLD CUP 2026 features over 50 artists from across the motu, and is a testament to the love and effort that Liam has poured into various Footmahi's across the years. It cannot be overstated the hard work and love behind Big Fresh Collective - and in Liam's words -

"I was just sick of sleeping on peoples couches after a gig."

We managed to jam a whole lot of good stuff into this interview, including a hot prediction for the Rugby League World Cup winner for 2026. I had a great time chatting to Liam, and was laughing the entire time. Thank you mate!

Make sure to go and listen to FOOTMAHI WORLD CUP 2026 on SoundCloud or bandcamp, and buy the album!

As always - Up the Wahs, go Kiwi.

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Dunedin, New Zealand has a deep and coveted history of musical prowess. From the early 80’s where the Dunedin Sound erupted from the area - it is a mystical melting pot where there has always been something in the water that leads to creatives writing and producing iconic sounds.

IVY is the latest powerhouse in the Dunedin music scene and started their climb in 2022. Their create a very unique, dark, and emotive art rock that flirts with grief and euphoria. The haunting vocals and intricate arrangements are second to none - and since I first heard them I was blown away (and to be honest a little jealous) of the talent oozing from them. T

hey released their debut album HUSH in September 2025, which blew the world away. They have just released an incredible follow up single Gutter, in August, and this year has been their busiest to date with sell out headline tours, as well as plenty of support shows including their SECOND upcoming Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers tour of Australia.

Do yourself a favour and get yourself to an IVY show as soon as possible, and listen to their art wherever you get your music.

IVY is Jesse Hanan, James Axton, Connor Cooper, Ocean Wilson, and Louis Stevenson. Thank you for the chat IVY!