1814: Live Project Celebrates Connection & Collaboration In New Visual Album Release
by 1814 · SCOOPOne of Aotearoa's most beloved reggae bands is set to enter an renaissance era with the release of 1814: Live Project, a stunning visual album and live recording featuring 1814 anthems with fresh arrangements, special guest collaborations, and some of New Zealand's best talent.
Led by original member Jimmy Colbert, the project honours the extraordinary 22-year legacy established by his father and 1814 founder Patu Colbert and brother Shaun Colbert, while introducing a new generation of listeners to the music that has become synonymous with Aotearoa reggae. Captured by producer and videographer Christian Tjandrawinata, the visual album showcases the warmth, musicianship and iconic riffs that have become hallmarks of the 1814 sound. The project was then engineered by Luan Meaker of Parachute Studios, whose credits include work with Stan Walker and many of New Zealand's leading recording artists.
At its heart, 1814: Live Project is a celebration of collaboration. Bringing together artists from across Aotearoa, the project reflects the profound influence 1814 has had on generations of musicians and audiences alike.
“This project was about honouring our father Patu Colbert and the legacy has created through music not only for his sons but for NZ music. To hear these songs brought to life with new arrangements including strings, alongside some of NZ Music’s leading talent has been amazing to witness. We can't wait for people to experience it” say Jimmy Colbert (Producer, founding member & bass guitarist).
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One of the standout moments on the album is a powerful reimagining of Insomnia, featuring vocalist and The Voice Australia finalist Jaedyn Randell, whose soulful interpretation brings new emotional depth to the much-loved track.
Another special highlight was the involvement of Te Whare Tapere o Te Arawa, the Rotorua-based rangatahi collective whose recent haka theatre production, Tērā te Auahi, sold out performances at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre. Their contribution to the 1814 waiata reo Māori ‘Whakahonohono mai’ adds another dimension to a project deeply rooted in ao Māori, mentorship and succession.
The project was made possible through support from Creative New Zealand's Creative Impact Fund, which invests in ambitious creative projects that connect artists and audiences throughout Aotearoa.
More than a live recording, 1814: The Live Project is a celebration of whānau, legacy and the enduring power of music to connect people across generations.
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