Shayne Carter Embraces Reinvention with New Albums and Collaborations

Shayne Carter, the renowned New Zealand musician, continues to redefine his artistic journey, adamantly avoiding becoming “a fading Xerox” of himself. At 61, he embraces constant evolution, producing innovative work that transcends traditional rock boundaries. Recently, he completed a nationwide solo tour and released two new albums: one a collaboration with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the other a score for a contemporary ballet by the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the New Zealand Dance Company.

Carter, a native of Dunedin and currently residing in Wellington, reflects on his longstanding career, which began in the early 1980s with his high school band, Bored Games. His latest projects demonstrate his commitment to reinvention and artistic exploration. “Dunedin’s always gonna be there, you know?” he states, emphasizing both his roots and his forward-looking perspective.

New Directions in Music

Carter’s first new release, titled REforms, is a retrospective of his music, featuring orchestral arrangements alongside one new composition. This project is not just a compilation of hits but rather an artistic reimagining of his work. He clarifies, “I’ve only got one famous song, so it’d be quite a short album.” The album resulted from his previous collaborations with the NZSO, where he curated concerts combining his favorite classical pieces with his own songs.

The second release, Home, Land and Sea, diverges from his rock roots, focusing on abstract compositions designed to complement the ballet’s narrative. “This was a different beast entirely,” he acknowledges, noting the shift from structured songwriting to creating an atmospheric soundscape for dancers.

Carter’s deep appreciation for music spans genres, as he shares, “Classical music – it’s just music. Whether it’s punk rock or Shostakovich, it’s all vibrations and tones.” This philosophy underpins his work, allowing him to seamlessly blend different musical styles.

Reviving the Past with Modern Techniques

One of the standout tracks on REforms is “Randolph’s Going Home,” originally recorded in 1985. The song, deeply rooted in personal tragedy, has evolved through Carter’s interpretation over the years. He expresses a desire to connect authentically with the song’s emotional weight. “If I ever felt like I was singing it by rote, I wouldn’t do it,” he explains, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the song’s integrity.

During the orchestral recording, he faced a unique challenge. The original drum part, played by his late bandmate Peter Jefferies, needed to blend with the new orchestral arrangement. By using artificial intelligence, Carter was able to isolate and incorporate the original drum sounds, creating a haunting connection to the past. “It’s like the original drums are haunting this new version,” he notes, illustrating the blend of technology and artistry.

Carter recognizes the spiritual essence of music, viewing it as a powerful form of communication. “Great music has got a spirituality to it,” he asserts, underscoring the profound impact it can have on listeners. He values the direct connection he forms with his audience, often receiving heartfelt feedback about how his music resonates with them.

While REforms revisits his past, Home, Land and Sea represents a new frontier for Carter, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to explore varied artistic expressions. This duality highlights his belief that music transcends cultural boundaries, serving as a universal language.

Carter’s philosophy champions independence and creativity, as he reflects on his journey through the music industry. He encourages others, particularly emerging artists, to carve their own paths. “I feel like someone like me, and some of my contemporaries, we can actually show through example that there’s an alternative way of going about things,” he asserts.

As he continues to push boundaries and seek new experiences, Carter remains committed to his mantra: “I’m an adult and I can do whatever I like.” This belief fuels his artistic endeavors as he navigates the ever-changing landscape of music, ensuring that his legacy remains vibrant and relevant.