New Zealand-born, Melbourne-based producer Opiuo is basically unstoppable at this point.
Since his 2010 breakout single 'Robo Booty', Opiuo's star has been on a steady rise to dizzying heights of international fame and respect. His debut album 'Meraki' was released in 2014, garnering acclaim from critics and fans alike around the globe.
Versatile and diverse both on stage and in the studio, Opiuo's performances have become renowned as audio-visual spectaculars. This year, he releases his second full-length album, 'Omniversal', and will embark on an extensive national tour that will see him perform in more places than ever before.
Last year was super-busy for you touring and recording. What were some of your highlights?
Jumping out of a plane. Working on my album. Touring the USA with the band.
On to current business. Your new album 'Omniversal', is it vastly different from 2014's 'Meraki'?
I would say it's a definite evolution of Opiuo. It’s more musical, it’s more varied. I wanted to make a well-rounded album, something that’s an exciting journey into the unknown, showing all the different vibes I love to create, while maintaining the fun and the raw power that I'm addicted to in music.
Having named the album 'Omniversal', do you ascribe to the Many Worlds theory of infinite possibility?
I think anything is possible. Who knows if we are the one who are going to change the world. We should always stay true, believe in ourselves and push our mother-fucking limits!
What was your response when you first heard 'Meraki' was voted Best Electronic Music Album at the NZ Music Awards?
I was sitting in the stadium at a table with my manager, parents, brother and another band. They read out the nominees and I was sure it wasn't going to be me. I didn't even prepare a speech. So when I got called up I was floating in the unreal world of shock. I don't even know what I said. It didn't truly sink in for weeks to be honest. I still can't believe it happened.
The new single from 'Omniversal' is 'Sneakers'; what is it about casual footwear that inspired this song?
The song was inspired by a wild night in Byron Bay late last year, full of super-sick dance moves, and a collection of shiny, floor squeaking, body-pop locking, super-sliding sneakers.
Do you have a favourite pair of sneakers?
Currently my purple and black Reebok Ventilators are ruling my world.
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You've recently announced the 'Sneakers' tour which kicks off in April. How are you feeling in the lead-up to the shows?
I’m fucking excited. I get to play all this music I’ve been writing for the first time, the new album, plus rock a custom light show around the whole country. It’s a dream making shit all the time, and I’m living it.
Will the tour be your one-man music extravaganza, or will you have special guests joining you on stage?
Yeah, I'm going out on this tour solo bringing the uber, party-fuelled funk-dirty bass party. There maybe some guests spread across some shows as well. ;)
What about the setlist? New stuff, classic hits or a mix of both?
SOOOO much new stuff, plus sprinkles of classics to keep ya mum happy.
Do you get much free time on this tour? If so, how do you plan on spending it?
I don't really have any free time. Outside of all the travel and shows, one or two days a week will be spent making music in my Melbourne studio. I’m so inspired right now to make motherfunkin’ party music for the people!
You've played all over the world; where are some of your favourite places to perform?
There's so many incredible music scenes, venues, humans [and] artists the world over who create the best environments. Anywhere where the people are free to be themselves and get the fuck down are my favourite places to play.
In your travels you must have met some amazing musicians around the world. Any plans for new collaborations?
I have so many in the pipes right now, but none I can let slip. Some are bigger than I ever expected possible. If you don't ask, it doesn't happen right?
Your favourite and least favourite aspects of world touring?
I love airport lounges. I dislike the lack of sunlight.
You're described as a 'chief sufferer of intense musical addiction'; how do you get your fix when out on the road?
I listen to as much different music as I can while I travel, and if I have a day off I try go see some dope local music wherever I am.
Pop quiz: A zombie apocalypse breaks out at your next show. What do you do?
Blow them to smithereens with my super-sonic-bass-face canon!
Ever had an awkward/embarrassing moment on-stage you can tell us about?
Saying the wrong festival name at a festival is definitely up there.
Finally, is there a message you'd like to tell your Australian fans before the tour?
Let’s get funky! Let’s party! Let’s live it up!
Opiuo Tour Dates
Fri 8 April - Jack Rabbit Slims (Perth)Sat 9 April - The Fat Controller (Adelaide)
Fri 15 April - 170 Russell (Melbourne)
Sat 16 April - Uni Bar (Hobart)
Wed 20 April - The Plantation Hotel (Coffs Harbour)
Fri 22 April - Oxford Arts Factory (Sydney)
Sat 23 April - University Of Wollongong UniBar
Sun 24 April - Carmens (Sydney)
Sat 30 April - The Triffid (Brisbane)
