It's been the strongest year for local music, perhaps ever, evidenced by the fact that three kiwis have topped local and international 'best of' lists. The RNZ Music team discuss Lorde, Aldous Harding, Nadia Reid and more.

Singer-songwriter Aldous Harding talks to Kathryn Ryan about self-belief, self-preservation and how she's become obsessed with live performance.

To help us get in the festive spirit Sol3 Mio give an early Christmas present by singing live in front of an audience at RNZ. Pene and Amitai Pati, and Moses Mackay perform three tunes from their new album A Very Merry Christmas, including an original written by Moses. Pene and Amitai talk about their overseas experiences working at San Francisco Opera and teaming up with Moses for Sol3 Mio's summer tour.

Nick Bollinger reviews a mythological sci-fi love saga from Northland artist Troy Kingi.

Nick Bollinger investigates the colourful sound worlds of Wellington turntablist Alphabethead.

Nick Bollinger reviews a mythological sci-fi love saga from Northland artist Troy Kingi.

Ria Hall has made an album that looks from the past to the future. Nick Bollinger takes a listen.

In this week's Pocket Edition we talk to James Mercer from the Shins, Ed Droste from Grizzly Bear, and check out Richter City Rebels.

James Mercer and Yukki Matthews from The Shins talk about romantic happenings at live shows, getting a record deal because of Napster and raising daughters in a crazy world.

Merchants of Bliss Glass Vaults serve up a slice of summery pop from their latest album The New Happy in this live session at Blue Barn.