Adam Hattaway and The Haunters: New Zealand's Garage Rock Revivalists
Adam Hattaway and The Haunters are a garage rock and power pop band from Christchurch, New Zealand. The group, led by singer-songwriter Adam Hattaway, has built a dedicated following through relentless touring and a series of critically acclaimed albums that channel raw, melodic energy.
Early career
The band formed in Christchurch around 2015, emerging from the city's vibrant DIY music scene. Adam Hattaway had previously been involved in various local projects, but The Haunters solidified a lineup dedicated to a straightforward, guitar-driven sound.
Their early work was self-released, capturing a live and unfiltered aesthetic that quickly became their signature. This grassroots approach led to their official debut and established their core sonic identity.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough arrived with their 2018 album All Dat Love, released on the New Zealand independent label Melted Ice Cream. The album received strong national radio play and critical praise for its sharp songwriting and energetic delivery.
This release cemented their reputation as a formidable live act and a leading force in the local garage rock revival. While specific chart positions or certifications are not documented, the album's impact was felt across the New Zealand alternative music landscape.
Key tracks
All Dat Love — The title track from their breakthrough album serves as a perfect introduction to their blend of jangling guitars and heartfelt, direct lyrics.
I'm a Mess — This track showcases their ability to craft a powerful, anthemic chorus within a raw garage rock framework, often becoming a live set highlight.
I Don't Mind — A prime example of their power pop inclinations, featuring melodic basslines and harmonies that underscore their nuanced songcraft.
I Wanna Go Home — This song highlights the band's emotional range, balancing a driving rhythm with a palpable sense of yearning and nostalgia.
Following their initial success, Adam Hattaway and The Haunters continued to build momentum with subsequent releases like 2020's When We Were Young. They have maintained a consistent output, touring extensively and collaborating with other figures in the Australasian indie rock scene. Their music prioritizes authenticity and immediate impact, a philosophy that resonates with fans of unvarnished rock and roll.
Listeners who enjoy Adam Hattaway and The Haunters often appreciate similar artists from the region. Marlon Williams explores a different but adjacent roots-oriented sound with a strong theatrical presence. The Chills represent an earlier generation of iconic New Zealand guitar pop with enduring influence. Mitski shares a similar intensity and lyrical directness, though within a broader indie rock context. The Beths offer another contemporary New Zealand perspective on guitar pop, focusing on intricate harmonies and relatable songwriting.
The music of Adam Hattaway and The Haunters is featured in rotation on various independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams. Their tracks are played on stations dedicated to garage rock, modern alternative, and the current wave of Australasian guitar music, providing a platform for their energetic sound.
You can hear the music of Adam Hattaway and The Haunters on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover this Christchurch-based garage rock band through the curated radio stations available on onairium.com.
