Described as ‘experimental lo-fi flow state’, Kāhu & The Corybas from Auckland have delivered a spectral trance-like six-track EP that skilfully delves into the afterlife, delivering Zen-like live recordings.

If I Could Hold It introduces you to ‘Waiata For Ghosts’ with a floatingly dreamy, almost otherworldly vocal sound. The gentle acoustic guitar guide is quickly replaced with percussive electronics of Karakia ft Reverb56, the title of which points strongly to the artist’s self-analysis as a “…no practice weirdo who can’t manage to play things the same way twice.” It’s the brashest of the tracks here.

Extreme lo-fi synth and melancholy vocals have an ambient quality that intensifies the moodiness of this EP. Transcendental lyrics weave stories from the other side. Ghostly, ethereal utterings deliver stories from spirits of ancestors. Each brief track is apparently written and performed in some form of trance, lending to the eerie tone. It seems a perfect bed for taonga pūoro, which might have lifted its impact immeasurably.

Acoustic guitar and a touch of distortion, accompanied by pensive lyrics and the layering of mysterious, beautiful vocals does prove an excellent point, that something uniquely bewitching can be produced on little to no budget. All over within 15 minutes, the EP mingles darkness with light channelling personal ghosts, giving them a mesmerising voice.