Originating from Naenae in the Hutt Valley, Albert Mikolaj was transformed by a life-changing detour through South America, A.U.R.A is the dream canvas.

“To me the aura is somekind of glossy translucent cocoon that coexists as a necessary artifice between audience and performer”.

Sonically described as “lucid, melodious dream music”,  Aura features Ben Lemi (FFR, Trinity Roots) Deanne Krieg (Ida Lune) and Samuel Austin. The music conveys an enchanting hybrid of Neil Young with slight aural echoes of Bon Iver and Sharon Van Etten. 

In this interview spotlight, I chat with the band about technology, challenges, motivations and, of course, the latest project.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

I’m from Wellington New Zealand 🇳🇿 

Honestly the style is heartbleed. 

Music 🎵 especially Joni Mitchell broke my heart and thus the alchemy of breaking ones heart until it opens. 

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

Heartbreak again 🧶 in all its various forms; romantic political musical and yes that is self sustaining 

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

I feel it’s pursuit is philosophical pause…almost intentionally impossible these days.

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

Our challenge is the apparent need for constant social output in order to create and maintain fan base …Enya never had that problem … especially when addressing artifice is a key concept in the work. 

What was the last song you listened to?

Bulletproof Soul  Sade

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

CDs 💿 always

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why? 

 Bandcamp for me is 🏠 home. It’s truly the best way to find true rare authentic locals artists 

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

Www.Aurasound.bandcamp.com  I also use Instagram at a.u.r.a.music

Anything else before we sign off?

Been thinking about Andrei Tarkovsky’s advice to young people which is essentially “learn to love solitude” 

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