Get To Know: Phoebe Rings

Phoebe Rings. Photo credit: Frances Carter

Auckland-based dream-pop quartet Phoebe Rings have carved out a shimmering niche in Aotearoa’s indie landscape. Drawing on influences from Studio Ghibli soundtracks and JRPG games to Stereolab and Margo Guryan, Phoebe Rings craft songs that feel both otherworldly and warmly familiar. We caught up with the band to chat about tour highlights, live show magic, and hidden Auckland gems.

For fans of Cocteau Twins, Stereolab, Broadcast and Alvvays.

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You’ve just been on tour across Asia. What were some of your highlights? 

All the shows were amazing but we got to play in a few local record stores along with the “not so local” Tower Records in Shibuya. In Seoul we played at Gimbab records, whose mascot is the owner's cat – It’s very adorable! We then played a very sweet, intimate show at Flake Records in Osaka. It's always cool to connect and see these places that lay at the heart of a local scene. Also, we just met so many great people, it was a really heart melting trip.

Favourite food & drink you had on tour?

We had some great sushi at a fish market in Osaka. Simeon and Ben had fugu (pufferfish), which was perhaps more memorable for the fleeting sense of danger, than for being particularly tasty. It was quite hot, so Pocari Sweat stops were frequent.

Could you share an Aseurai 2025 Asia Tour photo dump?

Who are you excited to see play live at BIGSOUND?

Georgia Knight, Bridge Dog (whom we’re playing with in Sydney!), Sleepazoid (their single 3AM is a real banger).

Who are some up-and-coming acts from Aotearoa/NZ that you're excited about right now?

Dateline have a new album next year that I’m very excited to hear. 

What would you say makes a live show special?

We’re big fans of stage (or venue) dressing and an unexpected venue can also make for something special. We are about to play at the Michael Lett Gallery back home, which used to be a Samoan Church. It has lovely high ceilings and old wood.

What band/artist would you love to see live that you haven't yet?

Cocteau Twins? A reunion is technically possible right?

Who would you say are some of Phoebe Rings biggest influences?

Each of us brings different influences and music background but collectively… Ghibli, JRPG games, Stereolab and Margo Guryan!

Where would you take a friend visiting Auckland for the first time? Any hidden gem spots-food, parks, shops etc. that you think more people should know about?

Dominion Rd has the best dumplings and noodles. There is a deep roster of spots to visit and it’s often the first place I visit after travelling - even after playing in Taiwan! 

Is there anything else you want the world to know about Phoebe Rings?

No-one in our band is called Phoebe! Our band is named after Saturn's outer ring, ‘Phoebe Ring’ :)

Listen to Aseurai by Phoebe Rings below.