The Potbelleez: It's great to be back

Australian-based dance sensation The Potbelleez are no strangers to New Zealand and they're looking forward to coming back this weekend. The group will be among many international and New Zealand artists performing at the EDGEtravaganza in Hamilton. Potbelleez producer Dave Goode and vocalist Ilan Kidron talk to Kristin Macfarlane.
The Potbelleez are not Kiwis but they love coming to New Zealand to perform for our crowds.
Australian-based dance group The Potbelleez - DJ-producers Dave Goode and Jonny Sonic, singer Blue MC and vocalist Ilan Kidron - rocked Auckland and Australia when they took the support role for R&B sensation Usher.
They loved the Auckland crowd at the OMG tour and said: "We had a great time in Auckland."
This weekend, they return to perform at the EDGEtravaganza concert and grand opening of the Claudelands Arena on Saturday.
The seven-hour concert will be packed with international bands and top New Zealand artists. Included in the line-up are Midnight Youth, Stan Walker, Thirsty Merc, Kids Of 88, Avalanche City, Dane Rumble, Zowie, Ivy Lies and Illegal Musik Showcase featuring K-One, Vince Harder, DJ CXL and Illegal Bandits.
Both Dave and Ilan are looking forward to being back in New Zealand and checking out the other bands at the festival, including Thirsty Merc and Dane Rumble, and rocking out for a Kiwi crowd again.
"We've been going to New Zealand now for about three years," Ilan said. "We've got quite a good following there.
"We're looking forward to the people there ... Hands in the air and just having a great time."
Dave says they try to come to New Zealand twice a year and are hoping to return before the end of this year.
"If we could come back more we would," Dave said.
The Potbelleez have a new album called Destination Now, something Blue MC says is the product of growth and experiences they've all had with each other.
The mixed foursome deliver a vast array of influences to Destination Now.
Ilan is classically trained, Dave and Jonny hail from the club zone and Blue MC brings her hip-hop and rap to the mix.
"We're definitely a dance band, that's what we do and that's what we do best," Dave said.
Dave and Ilan say they will not only perform their older tracks such as Don't Hold Back but also their new songs, including From The Music and Hello.