MEDIA RELEASE
February 21 2008
Here on the Ground at Ohaupo
When his first single was released two years ago, New Zealand was warned to watch this space. Since then Luke Thompson
singer-songwriter talent has seen him hit the New Zealand charts with a rush. This month the 24 year old has embarked on
a nation-wide tour which brings him to Vilagrad Wineries in Ohaupo on Friday night where he will play to an audience
which includes his former music tutors from Wintec (Waikato Institute of Technology).
In the traditions of early Bob Dylan, Don McLean and Paul Simon, Luke Thompson will be out on the road playing as any
good troubadour should in celebration of the release of his debut album “Here on the Ground” with intimate acoustic
shows at some of the country’s most beautiful vineyards and café’s as part of the Midsummer Tour 2008.
Thompson spent some time in high school bands and it was through one of them appearing at a Smokefreerockquest that he
got his break As the singer-guitarist he was singled out for a scholarship which allowed him a year’s study at a music
school of his choice (he went to Wintec in Hamilton) and to his surprise stayed for the full three year course,
supporting himself by playing in an acoustic duo around pubs and clubs.
He furthered his song writing and asked acclaimed producer Nic Manders (Brooke Fraser) if he would produce a single for
him as part of a class assignment, sent that to NZ on Air and a grant to record another followed.
“Here On The Ground” was recorded at Roundhouse Studios (Neil Finn) in Auckland and produced by Nic Manders (Brooke
Fraser). Only released last week Luke’s debut album has already received wide acclaim. Noted music reviewer Graham Reid
says “this mature and confident album suggests he’s bigger than the three minute song and is in for the long haul”.
Luke has also been chosen as the support act for some very big name artists; American rock stalwarts ‘Toto’ at The Civic
in early March and Grammy Award winning Jars of Clay at the end of March.
ENDS