Fat Freddy's Drop to rock Lakefront

BE THERE: The public site map of the Fat Freddy's Drop performance. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

FAT Freddy's Drop come with a reputation of legendary live performances, but if you want to catch them this summer then you should make a beeline for the Lakefront tonight.

The must-see summer act is only putting on two shows this summer on New Zealand shores before they head overseas.

Concert organiser Jackie Sanders reckons the line-up for the concert is so varied that there is something for everyone - and since Fat Freddy's are the consummate performers, concert-goers will get more than their money's worth.

Gates are now opening an hour earlier than originally planned due to extra bands in the line-up.

"Each band is a bit different, you get a taste of everything. It's not just the same style all night," Ms Sanders said.

"Fat Freddy's are only doing two concerts this summer and we're one of them. They don't play a lot and their stage shows are never the same. They play for a couple of hours so you get great value."

The concert is promising to be a fusion of soul, reggae and funk.

Ms Sanders originally announced three bands - funk remix masters Hipstamatics, a 10-piece band, and Meta & The Cornerstones.

She has since added Strangely Arousing, who open the concert at 4.10pm, The Boom Cat and Manalion to the concert.

Hipstamatics play arrangements and remixes of well-known songs in their funky way and are guaranteed to get you dancing, Ms Sanders says.

African artist Meta & the Cornerstones fuse reggae with Afro-pop, hip hop, rock and soul. They have been described by National Geographic as the future of reggae music and are picking up fans all over the world.

Ms Sanders said she wanted music fans to grab a camp chair or picnic blanket and have fun. "Enjoy some great music, have a good dance and enjoy the New Year."

Food and drink is available. A liquor ban is in place.