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Kiina hail from Brighton, Finland, Devon and London. One DJ described Kiina in the following way
"If I went to a festival and happened to pitch a tent between Corrine Bailey Ray, and an early incarnation of the Brand New Heavies, who had been signed to Wah Wah 45's, and been getting drunk behind the Soul Stage with Baby Charles, to celebrate, while Sade took up residence in my sleeping bag. I'd expect to unzip my tent to see Kiina there and the sunshine. "
Kiina’s radio-friendly songs have recently been aired on BBC Southern Counties, Juice FM, Radio Reverb, and regularly feature on ABC radio in the USA, receiving reviews such as:
“I love Kiina, she has a wonderful voice…you can hear there’s so much talent within that band… watch out with Kiina!” - DJ Sid Olivera, Producer of Fame Games, ABC Radio Networks.
This year Kiina have been scouted by Brighton’s number one live music venue, Concorde 2, by Rock Brighton and Seven Management (Dido) to play support slots for Neneh Cherry, Incognito, Finley Quaye and Two Spot Gobi.
Kiina were recently shortlisted by Absolute TV from 500 bands to appear in their music charts. They received over 2000 votes from fans and finished the competition in the top 12 of the bands. As well as playing the great music venues of Brighton, Kiina are playing in London in venues such as The Bedford, The Soho Revue Bar, The 12 bar and ULU. See our myspace for up to date listings.
Katarina Holmberg (lead vocals), a Swedish-Finn Brighton girl, and Steve Down the Devonian (guitar and backing vocals), met while studying music at Southampton University, both gaining firsts. They have been a musical team ever since.
Kiina are a 5-piece band: Chris Britt and Matt Weston provide the creative rhythm section for Kiina’s songs, and Francesca Young and Steve Down provide colourful soulful harmonies. Together the band create a unique chemistry that is obvious to the audiences at their live shows.
The band have spent the last year gigging, writing new songs and recording. Their four track EP is now available to buy by following the link on their myspace.
Kiina are looking for management (they want more time to write songs!) a record label and/or financial backing; they have already successfully signed single songs with Sony and Universal, which have been used as part of film soundtracks played at Cannes Film Festival and for ITV.
Kiina are on their way. Watch this space!
For more information or to book Kiina contact:
[email protected]
"Kiina were amazing when they performed at Showcase:LIVE in July 08, and we're looking forward to them returning for our main show this November. They were professional, prepared and went down a storm with our audience. Their versitility as an act is also very encouraging and would recommend them for any event."
-George Eason, Organiser/Promoter/Host for Showcase:LIVE
""Brighton band Kiina were up next, featuring a string section, bass guitar, acoustic guitar and two female backing singers, the lead singer had a flawless vocal throughout and the music was very well performed by the band. A stunning sound."
-Fizzy Pop's review of Kiina's 24th November gig at the Soho Revue Bar
"As soon as the lead singer Katarina began to sing I knew I was going to enjoy this band. Her lovely, soul voice suited the excellent songs and she sang and charmed us all while accompanied by her talented musicians. The atmosphere was electric, we couldn't hear enough of them. This is one band you must not miss."
-Kath Newman Radio Producer/Presenter
Drop us a mail or comment we'd love to hear from you!
TO VISIT KIINA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE!