Locals Only - Coast Arcade 'Highest Heights'

Indie pop-rock up-and-comers Coast Arcade are soaring to new heights with their latest single ‘Highest Heights’!

Coast Arcade make their debut on Locals Only this week! Following on from the release of their infectious debut single ‘Tattoo’ (#11 Hot NZ Singles Chart), ‘Highest Heights’ is a fast-paced and moody song about how over-dramatic teenage love can be. Cam was lucky enough to premiere it on the ZM Late Show before it's official release!

“The song was written about that feeling you get when you're in an airport and see someone of a similar age to you. There is always this weird chemistry that you don’t get anywhere else,” explains lead singer/guitarist Bella Bavin, whose vocals are a stand-out on the track.

“Teenagers can be so dramatic with how they love and insist they fall in love instantly. ‘Highest Heights’ lyrics are super over dramatic and almost corny to reflect that, but in a serious way.”

Having formed in early 2021 at high school, Coast Arcade is made up of Bella Bavin (vocals + lead guitar), brothers Chris (rhythm guitar) and Nate Tims (bass), and Thom Boynton (drums + backing vocals). ‘Highest Heights’ was recorded at Joel Little's Big Fan studio with engineer Noema Te Hau, mixed by Jono Pearce (The Beths), and made with the support of NZ On Air.

About the music video Bella said, "I think the deadpan look of the video creates a cool contrast to how emotional the song is supposed to be. A few funny things happened on set. We had to record the majority of the video in double time, which was a real challenge, and it was hard to keep a straight face." 

Guitarist Chris adds that “it was the first time the band has shot a professionally produced video, and it was a really interesting experience. We all had fun and, despite the bugs, the power cuts and being in a pool until 1am, are stoked with the video!"

The band are fast becoming regulars on the Aotearoa music scene after securing spots on the Rhythm and Vines and Spring City festival line-ups, and opening for Aussie legends Bootleg Rascals and The Grogans, as well as kiwi icons The Beths and Princess Chelsea.

Stream 'Highest Heights' now and watch the music video below!

Keep up with the band on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.