L.A.B: New Zealand's Chart-Topping Reggae Fusion Powerhouse

L.A.B is a multi-platinum New Zealand reggae, rock, and electronic fusion band that has dominated the nation's charts since the late 2010s. Hailing from the coastal city of Whakatāne, the group's major achievement is a historic run of number-one singles on the Official NZ Top 40 Singles Chart, surpassing even global superstar Ed Sheeran.

Early career

The band's story began in 2016, formed by brothers Brad and Stu Kora, alongside vocalist Joel Shadbolt, drummer Ara Adams-Tamatea, and bassist Miharo Gregory. Their self-titled debut album, L.A.B, was released independently that same year, immediately establishing their signature blend of roots reggae, funk, and rock within the local scene.

Breakthrough

L.A.B's national breakthrough arrived in 2019 with the release of their third studio album, L.A.B III. The album's lead single, "In The Air," became a cultural phenomenon, spending a staggering 11 weeks at number one in New Zealand and achieving multi-platinum certification. This success propelled the album to the top of the Official NZ Top 40 Albums Chart, cementing their mainstream status.

Key tracks

In The Air — This 2019 smash spent 11 weeks at number one, breaking records and becoming one of New Zealand's most-streamed songs of all time.

Why Oh Why — Another chart-topper from the L.A.B III album, this track showcased their smoother, soulful side and enjoyed massive radio play.

Mr Reggae — A fan-favorite from their 2018 album L.A.B II, this song highlights their deep roots in classic reggae rhythms and infectious grooves.

Controller — This 2021 single continued their chart dominance, debuting at number one and showcasing their evolving, more electronic-tinged sound.

Following this breakthrough, L.A.B has continued to release chart-topping albums, including 2020's L.A.B IV and 2022's L.A.B V, each spawning number-one singles. Their music has earned numerous platinum and gold certifications in New Zealand, reflecting consistent sales and streaming success. The band is known for its energetic live performances, headlining major festivals and selling out arenas across the country, all while remaining independent on their own label, Loop Recordings Aot(ear)oa.

For fans of L.A.B's genre-blending sound, similar artists from New Zealand include Six60 who share a massive local following and a fusion of pop, rock, and R&B. Katchafire offers a purer roots reggae and dub influence central to the Kiwi sound. The Black Seeds deliver a similar mix of heavy funk, dub, and soul. Fat Freddy's Drop explores a wider, more improvisational electronic and dub foundation.

The music of L.A.B is a staple on radio stations featured on this website, particularly on New Zealand-focused rock, alternative, and mainstream FM stations. Their catchy hooks and laid-back grooves also make them a perfect fit for online reggae radio streams and independent music radio stations worldwide seeking authentic Pacific vibes.

Listeners can discover the chart-topping hits and deep cuts from L.A.B's catalogue on the radio stations available right here on onairium.com, where their unique blend of reggae, rock, and electronic fusion is regularly in high rotation.