New Zealand may be small but it certainly is mighty when it comes to children's music and entertainment. At the centre of the wonderful world of children's music emanating from this island nation is Robin Nathan or fleaBITE as she is more commonly known. An award-winning artist who has managed in her illustrious career to walk away with four, yes that's right four, Best Children's Album awards, three with fleaBITE and one as a producer for the wonderful Fatcat & Fishface. Her formative years include heaps of experience in both theatre and radio, where she mastered the art of surreal comedy.
Interestingly, there is no particular message in her work as such, she is very much an organic creator, blowing in the wind with whatever takes her fancy from one day to the next. Which is why she explores a host of different musical styles, and achieves such eclectic diversity on her new album. Impossible to pin down or even categorise, fleaBITE is something of a law unto itself. Constantly searching, exploring new sounds, new ideas and new techniques in order to create a truly compelling product.
Her music is unique, captivating and entertaining and succeeds through achieving that fine balance between musical dexterity, humour and technical prowess. She is very much in the school of child-centred entertainment, where the music is from a child's perspective and not aimed at the parents. Off-beat and original; fleaBITE offers a different approach, providing the listener with music that breaks down traditional barriers.
The new album Piggy Oink Oink (yes that's right), features ten original songs which draw from a variety of influences including rock, techno and reggae to name just a few. With sound effects galore and some inspired musicality throughout, fleaBITE take no prisoners here with themes as diverse as animals, swimming, the weather, colours and even shampoo. A real standout track for me is "Colour Me" with its ambient vibe and magnificent choral infusion. The melody is quite superb, and the song works because of its minimalist arrangement and crystal clear vocals that captivate and delight in turn. Marvellous!
All in all an extraordinary artist whose growing reputation I am sure will lead her from strength to strength.
fleaBITE - a creative powerhouse.
