Bellebird began as a female acoustic duo formed in the deep south of New Zealand in 2007. The combination of Anna Van Riel and Jo Little’s solo talents created an eclectic and unique style of bluegrass music to entertain the masses. With beautiful vocal harmonies woven over a range of instrumental accompaniments, including guitar, bass, ukulele, flute, harmonica and kazoo, the duo perform an assortment of original and covered songs.
Since Bellebird’s formation in 2007 these southern songstress’s have made regular appearances on Invercargill’s CUE TV as well as preforming in various venues throughout Southland and Otago, opening touring artists such as Karen Hunter, Tim Guy, Paul McClaney, Age Prior and Luke Hurley.
At the end of 2008 the duo became a quartet with JR Richardson on Bass & Vocals and Michael Bradford on Mandolin & Accordion altogether Bellebird & The Handsome Gypsies. The quartet just completed a summer tour playing 34 venues in two months with raving reviews.
“Possesses an amazing voice, bouncing effortlessly between Deborah Wai Kapohe and Alanis Morissette.” - Nigel Benson, Otago Daily Times.
“The Belle Birds have played at the Black Dog Bar over the last year and have been a delight to have. Their mix of bluegrass, folk and contemporary rock has been a hit and we have heard nothing but positive feedback. Beautiful voices and a great rapport with the audience! We are looking forward to having them back next year to perform for us again.” – Carol Manager of ‘The Black Dog’ – Fiordland Cinema, Te Anau.
THE FOLLOWING CD's ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE:
Bellebird Flying North EP - 2008
Jo Little's acoustic EP - 2002
Anna van Riel's Album - 2007
Email jolittlelive@gmail.com or visit http://www.trademe.co.nz/Members/Listings.aspx?member=2077983
Hey guys, thanks for the kind words, I'm slowly crafting my singing and songwriting haha. Took me a long time to get there aye. You guys have always encouraged me to sing and for that I thank you and will never forget you, even when I'm signed and raking it in hahaha :)
Greetings gals! Am in the States until July, but still doing updates on the site. Planning some NZWAC events for the Spring. Can I get you two up Christchurch way to play sometime?
Have fun on your musical adventures!!! Ah, know you will :-)!
Thanks for hosting it on your friends list. On our myspace you can hear our first single "los árboles" and see what you think, and download it for free. A greeting purple...from Spain
Join the battle, last year we had 20 bands enter from around the Southland and Dunedin regions, with the eventual winners "The Biff Merchants", see if you can knock them off their perch. Last year the Biffs took away $2000, and Made in China (2nd placed) $500. This year will bring bigger and better prizes, and hopefully more money to the winners.
This year we're also opening the event up to the rest of the country, there will also be an all ages section, where under 18 years can come watch some of their peers playing, as well as some of the older bands.
This is just another chance to support local music, and see some of the talent that comes from the depths of the South Island.
Dates to be confirmed, starting April 2009. The Final will be held in May.
Taking application for entry now, for those traveling long distances we will be holding the final heat the night before the final (so you don't need to make two trips if you make the finals)
Online Now!
