New Zealand’s music scene has birthed a few legends, but none hit like Shapeshifter. Born in 1999 in Christchurch by a bunch of jazz school misfits, they didn’t just dip into drum and bass, they blew the whole thing wide open. Over the last 25 years, they’ve gone from local chaos agents to festival killers, lighting up stages from Glastonbury to Electric Avenue.
Their sound? A shape-shifting mix of live drums, synths, and pure energy that’s scored them platinum plaques and a cult following. In 2024, they marked 25 years of mayhem with vinyl reissues and a sold-out homecoming tour that reminded everyone why they’re still untouchable.
Shapeshifter exploded onto the scene in 1999 with a visionary lineup: Devin Abrams, Redford Grenell, Sam Trevethick, and Nick Robinson. Fast forward to now, and the crew has evolved into PDigsss (vocals), Sam Trevethick (guitar, synths, sampler), Nick Robinson (bass/synths/MPC), Dan McGruer, and Darren Mathiassen (drums).
Together, they’ve become the ultimate genre-bending beast, smashing drum and bass with jazz, soul, funk, rock, and electronic vibes. Their sound is a killer mix of live instruments, catchy melodies, and electronic beats that pack a serious punch, earning them a hardcore global following.
Shapeshifter’s discography is a wild ride of relentless creativity.
Check out their killer lineup of studio albums and get ready to be blown away:
Shapeshifter’s impact is impossible to ignore. They’ve racked up New Zealand Music Awards like Best Electronic Album, Best Group, and Best Live Act, flexing their dominance. Their albums consistently crush the NZ charts, showcasing their unrivaled influence and cementing their status as the kings of the scene.
Think their albums are fire? Just wait until you see them live. Shapeshifter’s shows are legendary, lighting up stages from Glastonbury and Parklife to Big Day Out. Their live sets are a whirlwind of improvisation and electronic magic, making every gig an unforgettable experience.
What sets them apart is their commitment to live instrumentation: no laptop click tracks, just raw, unsequenced energy with analog and digital synthesizers, as highlighted by Sam Trevethick. This approach creates a dynamic, off-the-grid performance that captivates audiences worldwide.
Shapeshifter’s knack for cranking out hits is unreal. These tracks have smashed charts and rocked fans worldwide.
Check out these must-listen hits:
These tracks prove Shapeshifter isn’t just coasting on past glory; they’re still pumping out heaters that slap in the car, the club, or your cousin’s backyard. And they’re not slowing down.
Their latest drop, Block Party, is pure audio confetti: live DnB chaos laced with thick, funky basslines and just enough swagger to make you dance like nobody’s watching (even though everyone definitely is). It’s sweaty, it’s loud, and it sounds like summer cracked open a beer and hit play.
<Spotify link="https://open.spotify.com/track/7hyYBmS8LeIhXjMhzHG4Ar?si=e7a06e1f7f86471e" />
Shapeshifter isn’t just a band, they’re a full-blown movement. They’ve flipped the New Zealand music scene on its head, especially in the drum and bass and electronic circles. Their fearless innovation has paved the way for other Kiwi artists to take on the world, creating a legacy of pure evolution and inspiration that fuels the next generation of musical rebels.
Shapeshifter's journey is a wild, inspiring tale of talent, innovation, and raw dedication. Their genre-busting tunes, explosive live shows, and unending stream of hits have cemented their place in music history, proving they are more than just musicians. They are pioneers.
Want to stay in the loop on their latest tracks and tours? Head over to their website >>>
And for now, do yourself a favor and blast this one:
Explore More
View All
