The Response
The Response, Christchurch's alt-pop dynamos, continue to enchant with their latest single, "You Never Run," released on 14th May. Clocking in at a perfectly tight 3 minutes 21 seconds, the track delivers a lush soundscape teeming with catchy bass grooves, compelling guitar riffs, and synth-laden textures. This duo knows exactly how to weave energetic introspection into every beat, maintaining a striking balance between minimalist electronic pulses and vivid pop melodies.
Andy and Victoria Knopp, the multi-instrumentalist couple behind The Response, met at Jazz School and quickly developed their distinctively engaging sound, sharpening their style through multiple releases and a creatively influential stint in Vancouver, Canada. Their eclectic, electronically-infused pop is captivating live, as evidenced by performances alongside acts like Baio (Vampire Weekend), Deep Sea Diver, Big Scary, and Kate Boy.
Described by NZ Musician Magazine as "indie pop at its carefully crafted best," their music beautifully explores complex themes of loss, belonging, and identity, offering listeners an uplifting yet introspective journey. Tracks like "Hollow Branches," "Only In The Night," and the album "Escaping This Cold Rotation" exemplify their thoughtful production and songwriting skills, which they manage entirely in-house—from writing and recording to mixing and mastering.
Beyond their personal projects, The Response are notable producers, supporting fellow New Zealand artists such as Imperial April, Volts, Music with Michal, and more, marking them as pivotal figures in the Kiwi indie scene.