Singer Troy Kingi's new album explores colonialism through reggae

Northland singer Troy Kingi has released his latest record as part of his ambitious series of albums.

Holy Colony Burning Acres is the third instalment in his plan to release 10 albums within 10 years. 

The 35-year-old premiered all 13 tracks at the Te Korakora Festival in Auckland on Friday night, despite the songs being ready in February. 

"When you've finished something and you wanna get it out it kind of weighs you down a little bit," he told Newshub.

"It's just a big relief to get it out today, to be honest."

The album explores indigenous rights and the effects of colonialism in the style of deep roots reggae.

"Initially it was only going to be about Māori issues but then I just started chatting to a lot of my friends... indigenous friends from all over the world and decided to widen my catchment."

He's looking forward to sharing his unique music to the public and hopes it sparks important conversations. 

"I really wanted to do something that helps open up the communication to make it, you know, not so taboo to talk about that stuff."

The tone of the album is a stark contrast to last year's Parliament-inspired sci-funk. That's because his 10 albums are planned to all have different genres. 

"That's kind of the big goal is to have a completely different thing every year," Kingi said.

"Most of it comes from being a big Quentin Tarantino fan... him wanting to do 10 films."

Kingi says it's an ambitious plan and admits there are a few nerves surrounding this release of 2019's record.

"I'm really anxious to see how people are going to respond to this."

However, he hopes the songs spark valuable discussions while still getting people off their feet. 

Newshub.