NZ's 'noisy' music history goes online

The Audioculture site features histories of bands such as Toy Love, as well as videos and rare photos. File photo / supplied

New Zealand's "noisy" online library of New Zealand Music - Audioculture - has gone live today, after years in the pipeline.

New Zealand On Air launched the 250-page site this morning, which documents New Zealand's musical history In every genre from early recordings to the well-known contemporary artists of today.

The online history, grouped under "People", "Labels" and "Scenes" , includes reviews, discographies, interviews, biographies, articles, photos, recordings and music videos.

It is also designed to be a place where New Zealand artists can connect with their fans.

Described as the "brainchild" of music legend Simon Grigg, AudioCulture was helped along the way by New Zealand On Screen.

The two sites will share not only resources and technology, but governance, with content being curated by specialist teams.

Grigg said he came up with the concept for the site three years ago, but it wasn't picked up by NZ On Air until June last year, when the wheels really got in motion.

After "taking a deep breath" and making the site live at 10am today, Grigg said AudioCulture now aims to cover ever record of importance ever made in New Zealand.

And with 35 writers on board, the library can only grow.

"They're the cream of New Zealand music writers - and some inspired amateurs," he said.

"I'm thrilled to help bring together so many stories and images of our unique musical culture and the many people who created it - and to do it on a site that is both accessible and looks great."

NZ On Air Chief Executive Jane Wrightson says the evolving evolving music history can be enjoyed by everyone.

"It will keep a record of what is happening now, while ensuring this country's colourful musical past isn't lost".