The Empire City

Overview

The Empire City traces the history of Wellington, from the middle of the 19th Century till the present day. Stories are told through song, text, paintings and photographs and offer a creative insight into the history of life in the capital city. The book includes a CD with original songs by Andrew Laking, and features a number of exceptional guest artists including Bret McKenzie (Flight of the Conchords), Riki Gooch (Crowded House), and Toby Laing (Fat Freddy's Drop). The songs are given context by historical notes and illuminated through a number of previously unseen archival photos, and over 20 new paintings by Bob Kerr.

Reviews

Andrew Laking is best known in the USA for his work with award-winning Irish folk group Gráda (Compass Records). "Gráda is to Irish music what Arcade Fire is to Indie - informal, prodigious and full of spirit" - The Washington Post. "A charming collection of acoustic-based folk tales... beautifully conceived and captured". Amanda Mills, NZ Musician. "A beautifully produced book that comes with a CD of original songs and is illustrated by New Zealand's leading documentary painter, Bob Kerr" – Wallace Chapman, RNZ. "Beautifully presented on his own Pirate and Queen imprint through Victoria University Press, The Empire City speaks quietly, and by not raising its voice invites you in to pay closer attention" – Graham Reid, Elsewhere.

Author Biography

Andrew Laking graduated from Victoria University with a degree in political science before pursuing a career in music at the Wellington Polytechnic Jazz Conservatorium (now part of the New Zealand School of Music). He lived in Ireland for a decade, in which time he signed with American label Compass Records, releasing five albums and performing in over 1500 cities worldwide.