‘The Mermaids’ are a musical group that features three female vocalists performing some of the most entertaining and classic tunes of all time. Each member is an experienced lead singer in their own right, and is showcased, as well as performing as part of the ensemble. The vocal line-up is complimented by the sublime skills of one of New Zealand’s most respected guitarists – Martin Winch, who is also Musical Director, programming and producing the group’s backing tracks. Martin has a long list of achievements including receiving the title of 1999’s ‘Guitarist of the Year’ and was also recognised as one of New Zealand’s ten best guitarists.
The Mermaids are a unique meeting of talents, influences and styles.
The musical content is inspired by feminine glamour with a tropical/nautical theme (hence the name ‘The Mermaids’ and the inclusion of tunes like ‘Aquarius’ and ‘La Isla Bonita’) and as well as paying tribute to some of the great female vocalists of the past and present including Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Madonna, Annie Lennox and Celine Dion. The music varies in tempo from ballads to high energy dance music, and much in-between.
Amber Claire is a versatile vocalist with a dramatic, soulful style and a penchant for swing and early jazz. Her sound compares to artists such as Sarah McLaughlin, Fiona Apple, Kate Bush, Celine Dion and Enya, but she is very much evolved in her own unique direction. She has an extraordinary and ethereal voice with amazing range. Amber has a captivating stage presence and she radiates the glamour of a 1930’s movie star. She also sang lead vocals on theme for the Paralympics in Australia. Amber is recording an album for Sony New Zealand, due for release sometime in 2002.
Jo Cotton is a well-known singer and personality in New Zealand, she gained national recognition as part of female recording group ‘True Bliss’, Jo frequently appears in New Zealand publications and was a roving reporter for the Hero Parade 2001 and interviewee on Juice TV Music Channel.
Pauline Berry is a versatile singer whose credits include several club residencies, 200+ commercials, an original CD release, backing vocalist for the entire first “Showcase” series plus many years of experience singing on the Auckland corporate and hotel circuit with various line-ups. She has now been a professional singer for more than 20 years. She wrote and recorded an original CD with Martin Winch entitled ‘Telling Tales’ released in 1997.
Rebecca Wright has a deep soulful voice and recently made it to the top 10 in NZ Idol. She joined the band in 2005. Rebecca is a trained dancer (ballet, modern jazz, contemporary, hip hop, salsa) as well as being a gymnast. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Education, Dance and Popular Music).
Rebecca has sung with several other covers bands prior to this group. She has also toured with several musical theatre productions. She appeared as a solo performer at the 2005 Christmas in the Park and ‘Starlight Symphony’.
