Nothing brings people together like music. This is why the Jam Factory at Tauranga's Historic Village is providing the music platform over winter for an ever-developing programme of learning, expression and performance.

During August Sorry Sorry and Arahi have performed, and Speech Act Theory with special guest Ayla Wesley will be on the Jam Factory stage this weekend.

This is the first time Speech Act Theory will be bringing their live show to Tauranga, following a busy release schedule of four singles throughout the first half of 2022.

Speech Act Theory is the Auckland based alt-electronica project of producer/musician Pete Hickman. Initially conceived as a studio project in late 2019, the concept was to fuse electronica and live instruments together.

This has now developed into a high-energy five-piece live band with live drums, guitars and powerhouse vocals to create something truly alternative.

After releasing their debut single through Tauranga's own Blood & Wires label, the band released their four singles – 'Holding Out' released in August 2021, September 2021's 'Grief Wave' and October 2021's 'Straight Lines'.

Speech Act Theory returned with their latest single 'Old Versus New' in February 2022 and are now shaking down their energetic live performance across New Zealand.

The live band consists of drummer Ben Bradford, guitarist Jamie Crerar, bass player Michelle Anderton, vocalist Brodie Macdonald and Pete Hickman on keys/synths/programming/vocals.

Sighting influence such as Zero 7, Radiohead, Cinematic Orchestra, Massive Attack, Four Tet, Boards of Canada - Speech Act Theory bring their mix of Electroncia, alternative and Trip Hop together in their electrifying and moving live show.

"It is refreshing and a very welcome change to hear something that harkens back to the classic trip-hop and downbeat era but with a modern spin,” says a Music.net.nz spokesperson.

A review in May Magazine says "With a nod to the 90s alternative/trip-hop stylings of the likes of Massive Attack, Zero 7 and Radiohead, it easily encompasses the best of those worlds while introducing its own unique and modern flavour".

Special guest Ayla Wesley will also be performing alongside Speech Act Theory at the Jam Factory on Saturday August 27.

A Tauranga based indie folk/rock artist, Ayla is passionate about sharing her sound and stories through her song writing.

Ayla Wesley. Photo: Supplied.

'I have melodies that are wavy and strong. I also enjoy implementing tempo changes, dynamic rhythms, and swelling vocals into my music,” says Ayla.

'There's a Tuesday, The Beths, Middle kids, and Stella Donnelly are some artists that have influenced my sound and writing.

Ayla says her primary instrument is her voice, and she usually accompanies herself with electric guitar or piano.

'Since leaving high school in 2017, I studied engineering in Auckland and had the opportunity to make friends with many musicians in my broader community. They inspired me to start writing and playing more, as well as recording my works.”

Over the last year, Ayla has played numerous solo gigs in Tauranga and Auckland, and played her first full-band headlining show in July 2021, at The Jam Factory which sold out.

'Over the last year, I have been working off and on my debut single ‘Salamanders',” says Ayla.

'Writing this song was the catalyst to discovering my genre. It's about when a close friend gets into a relationship, and you don't see them as much, but you still want to be there for them.”

Building a collective supportive environment, the eclectic and intriguing space at the Jam Factory offers boutique performances of music and theatre.

Connecting musicians of every skill level and genre to the residents of the Western Bay of Plenty and beyond, the team at the Jam Factory are committed to building social connections and cultural diversity through music by providing the space, the team and enthusiastic audience.

Speech Act Theory. Photo: Supplied.

During September shows at the Jam Factory include Henika Strange Creatures Tour on September 10, Diablos Caravan on September 15, Koreny on September 16, and a free music co-creation workshop on September 17.

For tickets to Speech Act Theory on Saturday August 27 click here