New Zealand Symphony to perform two concerts with N.Z.-based metal band Alien Weaponry

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the band Alien Weaponry “will perform two concerts, one in Hamilton and the other in Christchurch during May,” reads an unsigned article in Wednesday’s (3/10) Stuff (New Zealand). “Alien Weaponry, who hail from Northland’s Waipu, are seen as one of the most exciting young metal bands in the world. The partnership will be Alien Weaponry’s first with an orchestra, and the first collaboration with a metal band in the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra’s 75-year history. Alien Weaponry … have opened for the likes of metal heavyweights Slayer, Anthrax, Ministry, Black Label Society and Prophets of Rage. The band … deliver many of their songs in te reo Māori. ‘I’ve always loved the idea of incorporating orchestral music with contemporary music, and when I heard that the NZSO wanted to collaborate with us, I was really excited,’ [lead vocalist and guitarist Lewis de Jong] said…. ‘Classical and metal share much of the same DNA. Many of metal and hard rock’s biggest names, including Eddie Van Halen, loved and took inspiration from classical composers and performers,’ said NZSO Chief Executive Peter Biggs…. Metallica’s live album S&M with the San Francisco Symphony sold in the millions.”