A Breathtaking Collision Of Symphonic Orchestra Meets Hard Rock And Heavy Metal: Mānuka Phuel FULL METAL ORCHESTRA
Press Release – 818.
Duco Touring and Liberty Stage are excited to announce the star-studded line-up for the inaugural Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra, coming to Spark Arena in Auckland on Saturday, 26 July 2025.
The line-up includes legendary drummer Phil Rudd of AC/DC, powerhouse frontman Jon Toogood from Shihad, fearless vocalist Jennie Skulander of Devilskin, and EJ Barnes, daughter of rock icon Jimmy Barnes.
Also included in the line-up are Pluto frontman Milan Borich and Wellington-based blues-rock singer Seamus Johnson, and a world-class orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonia, led by acclaimed conductor Sarah-Grace Williams.
Together, these artists will reimagine massive rock and metal anthems from the likes of AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Tool, Motorhead, Metallica, Nirvana, Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin, Guns n' Roses, System of a Down and more.
Full line-up and artist biographies
Guest Vocalists / Musicians:
Phil Rudd (AC/DC): New Zealand-based drummer, best known for his iconic work with AC/DC, contributing to legendary albums like Highway to Hell, Back in Black, and Let There Be Rock. Phil's unique drumming style has made him a pivotal figure in rock history.
Jon Toogood (Shihad): Frontman of the legendary New Zealand rock band Shihad, Jon Toogood is renowned for his powerful voice and stage presence. With over 1,500 live performances and five #1 albums, he is one of New Zealand's most influential musicians.
Jennie Skulander (Devilskin): The voice of Devilskin, Jennie Skulander has become a defining presence in New Zealand's heavy music scene. Her vocal range and commanding stage presence led the band to national success, including a #1 debut on the New Zealand charts.
EJ Barnes (Jimmy Barnes' Daughter): A gifted singer and performer, Eliza-Jane Barnes, also known as EJ has toured the world with Liam Finn, Evil J & Saint Cecilia and Lawrence Arabia and has released multiple albums, including: 'There and Back' (solo), 'Champagne in Seashells' (Liam Finn & Eliza-Jane), 'BARB' (BARB) and 'Strange Beasts' (Evil J & Saint Cecilia).
Milan Borich (Pluto): Singer-songwriter and frontman of the alternative rock band Pluto, Milan Borich is known for his distinctive style and powerful performances. Pluto's 2005 album Pipeline Under the Ocean achieved double platinum status.
Seamus Johnson: A Wellington-based vocalist and guitarist, Seamus Johnson is known for his high-energy performances and raw blues-rock sound. He fronts the band Sea Mouse, blending Delta blues with garage rock influences.
Orchestra:
Auckland Philharmonia: New Zealand's largest professional symphony orchestra, the Auckland Phil presents over 60 performances annually, featuring classical works and collaborations with contemporary artists.
Sarah-Grace Williams: Acclaimed Australian conductor and the Artistic Director of The Metropolitan Orchestra, Sarah-Grace Williams is known for her innovative approach to orchestral music and her regular work with SYNTHONY, blending classical and electronic music.
The Come Together Band:
Jol Mulholland – Music Director & Guitar: Renowned producer and multi-instrumentalist, Jol is a creative mastermind and the engine behind the Come Together band. He has worked with New Zealand's musical heavyweights and brings his expertise to the stage.
Brett Adams – Lead Guitar: A virtuoso guitarist, Brett Adams has shared stages with the likes of Radiohead and Oasis, and locally with the who's who of NZ music. Brett has earned recognition for his exceptional ability – he's in a class of his own.
Matthias Jordan (Pluto) – Keys: A founding member of Pluto, Matthias Jordan is a multi-instrumentalist and keyboardist known for his contributions to the New Zealand music scene and his work with various musical projects.
Mike Hall (Pluto) – Bass: An accomplished bassist, Mike Hall is best known for his work with Pluto, and his collaborations with artists like The Brunettes, Dimmer, and Tami Neilson. He also released his debut solo album Nothing Stands Still in 2024.
Alistair Deverick – Drums: Drummer and producer Alistair Deverick is known for his work with the electronic-pop project Boycrush and as a session musician for artists like Lawrence Arabia and Neil Finn. He released his debut album Desperate Late Night Energy in 2018.
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