Gig Review: Deva Mahal @ Loons, Lyttelton – 11/04/2026

Deva Mahal is an evocative R&B singer/songwriter who is deeply connected to community, nature and the experience of being human.

For 90 minutes at Lyttelton venue The Loons, she expressed this through every nuance of her being, leading her audience on a journey that encompassed a range of emotions from joy to deep sorrow and every shade in between.

The Future Classic Vol II: Future Tour is the songwriter’s first major NZ tour in several years. Funded through NZ On Air and supported by the NZ Music Commission, it promotes her latest EP which is an exciting vision of what the future of Soul and R&B may be.

There was a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere at the venue with early arrivers sitting at tables located along the periphery of the dance floor, sipping wine and chatting under tasteful low lighting. The well-lit stage showcased a stunning gold Sonor drum kit as well as a classic Fender bass which gave me the distinct impression that we were going to experience some serious grooves.

Local Ōtautahi solo act Mona Vasa was a perfect choice to warm the crowd up. This confident, charismatic and witty performer showcased his unique songwriting style with flair.

Vasa is both deep and quirkily funny with his subject matter alongside inter-song banter, which made for a delightful connection between performer and audience.

Deva and her band quietly took their places onstage and then boldly made themselves known with a well-balanced sound that reverberated throughout the room. Mahal’s voice soared above it all while she danced, sometimes fiercely, sometimes lightly and joyfully and at others just getting on down. The rapport between the band was electric and when the songstress encouraged the audience to come closer, no one hesitated.

The lady of the evening was dressed head to toe in sustainable fashion with a strong 70’s vibe and sporting braids that reached all the way down to her calves. This diva stays true to her values and is so freakin’ cool!

The well-balanced song selections were drawn from many genres. The set opener featured a brilliantly executed segue from Aretha Franklin-esque vocals into some edgy, intense hip hop. Sometimes Good is sexy and soulful and the finale Slow Down was a thoughtful note to finish on with its heavy tribal beats that didn’t fail to portray Deva’s vision which she stated is “connecting yourself to the land, to nature and making the future a better place by slowing down.”

Mahal told delightful stories throughout the evening along with heartfelt backstories and introductions to songs such as Someone’s Daughter dedicated to murder victim Breonna Taylor, which brought her and some audience members to tears.

There were so many moments and stories from this exceptional evening that I would love to share. However, I urge you to go and have your own version of this experience. Deva Mahal is an absolute treasure!

Photo Credit: Nina fon McMillin for Muzic.NZ
Deva Mahal Photo Gallery
Mona Vasa Photo Gallery