Parachute 03, traditionally a rock n roll Christian music festival, will include a greater dance and electronica
component with the inclusion of British DJ Andy Hunter as part of the Mainstage lineup. Along with Hunter, NZ
electronica group Elevator will feature, and up and coming Kiwi DJ’s will entertain the crowds between bands.
Securing Hunter is no mean feat for festival organisers as Hunter has played alongside the likes of Judge Jules
and Alistair Whitehead and is experiencing international success with his debut album Exodus.
A combination of all of Hunter’s eclectic musical leanings from progressive house to trance to drum ‘n’ bass to
ambient moods, Exodus doesn’t stay in one place. Incorporating his influences ranging from mood-enhancing
drum ‘n’ bass to a harder, dance floor-oriented vibe, Exodus gives nods to the timeless, song-based bent of
Chicane, Leftfield and Underworld.
“I always wanted to be in bands and be on stage,” says Hunter. “I played guitar, but because I wasn’t a great guitar
player, I got became more involved with sound and lighting. I loved playing music before the bands their way to the
stage. I became interested in DJing, thinking it would be great to inflict my musical tastes on people without a
band interrupting the music and breaking it up.”
On a more mellow note, Auckland band Elevator, first seen at Parachute 2001, have built a strong following selling
more than 1000 units of their album Music which they produced in collaboration with producer/engineer Nic
Manders. Elevator’s line up consists of a full band and live vocalist along with turntables and sampler, and will
take their brand of ambient dance music to Europe in 2003.
