Our latest local mix is a real treat, Otautahi’s very own Christie Simpson from Yumi Zouma! We managed to catch a moment with her between touring to secure not only an interview & mix but also a photoshoot, now that’s hot. The mix Christie has put together is elite Spring listening, whether you’re playing it for pre’s or to feed the ducklings just know the vibe will be elevated.

We love everything that Christies is about! So see the full interview on our journal and support Yumi Zouma & their music on all of the platforms!!

I am...

I'm Christie, I'm singer and frontwoman of the band Yumi Zouma - Otautahi is my hometown, the band all met and formed here (except Olivia who lives in Wellington!) - so Otautahi is Yumi Zouma's hometown even though now the rest of our members are all scattered across the globe (Josh in New York, Charlie in London!)

How I would describe my music and some of my influences...

Our music is usually described as 'dreamy indie pop' – I always say we're a little too pop to be classified as indie music and a little too indie to be classified as just pop music so we fit somewhere in the middle! One of my biggest influences has always been Fleetwood Mac and I know the rest of the band love them too – but we have influences from all corners (New Order, Arthur Russell, Phoebe Bridgers... and a ton of NZ influences from earlier days like the Mint Chicks, Ladyhawke, Shocking Pinks etc etc)

My idea behind the mix...

A big spring-inspired chill happy jumble of everything I've been listening to lately – some great local indie tunes from my faves Goodwill, There's a Tuesday and Mim Jensen, a couple of classic jangly 80s-inspired indie tracks, a couple of actual 80s tracks, a few pop-leaning moments and some groovier funk/soul inspired stuff from SAULT, Leon Bridges, Helado Negro etc.

A trend I'm really into at the moment...

I love that we've been bringing big, bold, bright colours back and they're sticking around! V obsessed with hot pink, cobalt blue and lime-y chartreuse green that I'm seeing around a lot lately.

Who are your fashion icons...

Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac, always! I don't wear so much floaty 70s inspired stuff as I used to, but I've got a couple of pairs of flares, some classic 70s afghan-style coats and a pair of platform boots that I will love forever because of her. I'd say my on-stage looks have always had a hint of Stevie too – floaty fabrics and a fun sleeve always.

My go to performance outfits...

Always my incredible Eliza Perry dresses – so beautifully made in such light, airy fabrics, perfect for floating around the stage and not getting too sweaty! The ivory silk-cotton she used for both looks so beautiful with stage lights too, always looks fantastic in photos.

How everyone can support your music...

- Tell all your friends about us! Play us at your parties and force your mates to listen! (that's truly the main one!)
- Buy our new album Present Tense on vinyl (Penny Lane and Flying Out have it!)
- Stream us on your choice of platform, add your fave songs to your playlists!
- Make TikToks with our songs in them and help us go viral?? (lol)

Christie's INF DEF selections:

Follow Christie on Instagram at @typewrite

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