On 28 February 2026, The Dorado Experiment delivered a landmark performance at The Lyric Theatre, marking a significant step in the band’s evolving journey. Formed in Nelson in 2024, this Granity show represented their first appearance outside the Nelson/Tasman region, aside from their now-legendary New Year’s 2025 performance in the Chatham Islands, where they became the first band to play at the first place on Earth to see the sun, to an audience over 300.
From the opening bars, the band settled into a flow-state performance where extended grooves, melodic motifs, and dynamic builds unfolded with natural inevitability. Their psychedelic rock - steeped in vintage ’70s textures and expansive improvisation - felt perfectly scaled to the Lyric’s intimate setting. Driving rhythms, soaring guitar lines, and fluid song structures carried the audience through extended passages that rewarded close listening while never losing momentum. This sense of immersion was amplified by interspersed audience engagement: moments of direct address from front-man Blu Skii, and subtle cues that invited the room to breathe with the music. The result was a genuine exchange, not a one-way spectacle.
There was a quiet confidence at play here: the band’s cohesion, following instinct rather than formula, suggested a group rapidly outgrowing regional labels. Granity didn’t just host a gig; it bore witness to a band poised to be a standout force in New Zealand’s live music scene.
From the opening bars, the band settled into a flow-state performance where extended grooves, melodic motifs, and dynamic builds unfolded with natural inevitability. Their psychedelic rock - steeped in vintage ’70s textures and expansive improvisation - felt perfectly scaled to the Lyric’s intimate setting. Driving rhythms, soaring guitar lines, and fluid song structures carried the audience through extended passages that rewarded close listening while never losing momentum. This sense of immersion was amplified by interspersed audience engagement: moments of direct address from front-man Blu Skii, and subtle cues that invited the room to breathe with the music. The result was a genuine exchange, not a one-way spectacle.
There was a quiet confidence at play here: the band’s cohesion, following instinct rather than formula, suggested a group rapidly outgrowing regional labels. Granity didn’t just host a gig; it bore witness to a band poised to be a standout force in New Zealand’s live music scene.
Don’t miss Rock The Steps '26 — the 2026 edition of one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive outdoor music celebrations, presented by Dorado Whakatū at the Silvan Steps Amphitheatre on Saturday, 21 March 2026. Set high in the Richmond hills with panoramic views over Tasman Bay, Rock The Steps delivers an unforgettable fusion of live rock, breathtaking natural backdrop, community spirit and premium production. All ages welcome with shuttle transport included in ticket pricing.
This year’s lineup is stacked with both local and national talent: Tiki Taane takes the headline slot, backed by explosive performances from The Dorado Experiment, hard-charging rockers Powder Chutes, Pieces of Molly, Flowen Bowen & Friends, FairyDogs and more to be announced. Expect dynamic lighting, a massive sound system, delicious food and drinks, and the raw energy of live music in a setting that’s as electrifying as it is scenic.
This year’s lineup is stacked with both local and national talent: Tiki Taane takes the headline slot, backed by explosive performances from The Dorado Experiment, hard-charging rockers Powder Chutes, Pieces of Molly, Flowen Bowen & Friends, FairyDogs and more to be announced. Expect dynamic lighting, a massive sound system, delicious food and drinks, and the raw energy of live music in a setting that’s as electrifying as it is scenic.
Use promo code LYRIC10 at checkout to receive 10% off your ticket price — a worthwhile incentive to grab friends and make the trek to Nelson for what promises to be one of the standout live music events of the year.