Artist-run Auckland label Rothko Records presents a four-band alt/heavy showcase at Big Fan on Friday, 11 September. Designed to connect Tāmaki Makaurau’s emerging youth rock scene and its veteran heavy underground, the all-ages and licensed event celebrates the ‘light-and-shade’ of alt rock, noise rock, post-metal, and sludge.

Headlining the evening are instrumental post-metal stalwarts Mothra, whose formidable reputation has earned them support slots for the likes of The Dillinger Escape Plan, Helmet and This Will Destroy You.

The night includes the live debut of main support act Sunwraith. Formed by members of Decortica, Magnalith, and Pegasus, Sunwraith balances brutalist rhythmic percussion with cascading guitars and careening vocals, drawing thematic inspiration from Tarkovskyan sci-fi.

Opening the bill are two of Auckland’s vital young acts. Crying Ivy are winners of the Auckland Rockquest finals and 95bFM #1 single artists whose sound spans thrash, noise-rock, and experimental. Six-piece alt-rock outfit Scream By Tulips bring turbulent dual-guitar assaults, twin vocal harmonies, and explosive ’90s post-grunge energy.

All-ages. Tickets available here.