Coast Arcade From High School Dreamers to Aotearoa Indie Rock Stars
- Dustin Nelson
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Coast Arcade is a band that has captured the attention of New Zealand’s music scene with their powerful sound and authentic energy. Starting as a high school project in Auckland, this indie rock quartet has quickly risen to become one of the most talked-about acts in Aotearoa. Their journey from youthful ambition to festival headliners offers a compelling story about passion, growth, and the evolving sound of modern rock.
Band Profile
Formed in 2021, Coast Arcade consists of four talented musicians who each bring a unique element to the group’s dynamic sound:
Bella Bavin – Lead Vocals & Guitar
Bella is the band’s primary songwriter and the driving force behind their creative direction. Her voice carries both strength and vulnerability, anchoring the band’s emotional core.
Leo Spykerman – Bass
Leo adds a heavier, grunge-influenced edge to the music. His bass lines provide depth and weight, balancing the melodic elements with raw power.
Thom Boynton – Drums
Thom’s drumming is explosive and precise, giving Coast Arcade their signature rhythm that energizes every track and live performance.
Arlo Birss – Lead Guitar
With backgrounds in jazz and emo, Arlo’s technical guitar work adds complexity and texture, enriching the band’s sound with intricate riffs and solos.
Together, they create a sound that is both accessible and intense, blending catchy hooks with a gritty alternative rock foundation.
Musical Style and Influences
Coast Arcade describes their music as “Coast Rock”, a term that reflects their blend of surf-indie-rock vibes with a heavier, more aggressive tone. Their sound is characterized by:
Catchy pop hooks layered over a thick “wall of sound”
A mix of high-energy 2000s pop-punk and modern indie rock
Elements of shoegaze and darker post-hardcore influences in recent releases
Their early work leaned more towards surf-rock, capturing the laid-back coastal spirit of Auckland. Over time, their music has evolved into something darker and more complex, reflecting their growth as artists and individuals.
The band cites a diverse range of influences, including:
The Beths
Foo Fighters
Deftones
Paramore
Spacey Jane
These influences come through in their ability to combine melodic sensibility with powerful instrumentation and emotional intensity.
Career Milestones
Coast Arcade’s rise has been marked by several key achievements that highlight their growing impact on the New Zealand music scene:
Debut Album Release
Their self-titled debut album dropped on October 17, 2025. It was met with critical acclaim and was named one of the “50 Best New Zealand Albums of 2025” by Rolling Stone. The album showcases their range, from anthemic rockers to introspective ballads.
Live Performances and Festivals
The band has become a staple on the NZ festival circuit, performing at major events like Rhythm and Vines and Spring City. Their live shows are known for high energy and connection with the audience.
Supporting Major Acts
Coast Arcade has opened for well-known international and local artists such as Amy Shark, The Beths, and Lime Cordiale. These opportunities have helped them reach wider audiences and build a loyal fanbase.
Recent Touring and Fan Engagement
In early 2026, the band embarked on an extensive tour, including a series of free shows at iconic venues like Auckland’s Whammy Bar. These shows were a way to thank their growing fanbase and maintain close ties with their community.
Essential Tracks
One track that stands out in Coast Arcade’s catalog is “City Limits”. This song became their breakout anthem in 2024 and 2025. It captures the feeling of wanting to escape the confines of a small town and explore the wider world. The track’s driving rhythm and relatable lyrics resonated with many young listeners, helping to cement the band’s place in the indie rock scene.
Other notable songs from their debut album also highlight their versatility and depth, ranging from upbeat, catchy tunes to more introspective and moody compositions.
What Makes Coast Arcade Unique
Several factors set Coast Arcade apart from other bands in the indie rock landscape:
Authentic Storytelling
Their lyrics often reflect personal experiences and emotions, making their music relatable and genuine.
Musical Versatility
The band’s ability to blend different genres and influences keeps their sound fresh and unpredictable.
Strong Live Presence
Their energetic performances create memorable experiences that draw fans back again and again.
Commitment to Fans
By offering free shows and engaging directly with their audience, Coast Arcade builds a strong community around their music.
The Future of Coast Arcade
As Coast Arcade continues to grow, their trajectory suggests they will remain a significant force in Aotearoa’s music scene. Their willingness to experiment with their sound and maintain close connections with fans positions them well for long-term success.
Upcoming projects and tours are highly anticipated, and the band’s evolving style promises new and exciting directions. For fans of indie rock with heart and edge, Coast Arcade is a name to watch.
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