Musicians join SPCA project

Eddie Low and other New Zealand artists have come together to produce an album for the SPCA. Photo / Ben Fraser

Eddie Low and John Rowles have teamed up with other New Zealand artists to produce an album dedicated to the SPCA.

Two-and-a-half years in the making, the CD features former Rotorua singer Low and former Kawerau man Rowles, along with artists including Suzanne Lynch, Larry Morris and the Massey High School Guitars.

Titled Gray Bartlett and Friends the group hopes the album, which was released on Tuesday will raise $50,000 to $100,000 for the SPCA. Executive director of Auckland's SPCA branch Bob Kerridge said the SPCA was "extremely grateful" for the efforts of these New Zealand musicians.

"Everyone who took part in their project has been so helpful and generous to give up their time and efforts. All the proceeds from the CD are going to the SPCA because the people involved in producing it have been so generous."

Country musician Gray Bartlett said his long history with the SPCA and his keen love of animals was his inspiration for the project.

"The SPCA is a major charity project of mine because I believe that animals play an important role in teaching people respect, kindness and love. If children and young adults learn to play with and treat animals with love they will learn how to do the same with people. Many people who get into trouble have often hurt animals prior to hurting people."

Bartlett said this latest creation featured some of his best work.

"Each artist was specially chosen for the contribution they would be able to make to the quality of the music. Each song was chosen to match their voices." The album is available through the Warehouse, Marbecks, JB Hi Fi and through the SPCA, and retails for $16.99.