Channeled Return with Intimate Auckland Show + Reimagined Single Release
Tāmaki Makaurau alternative rock band Channeled are returning to the stage after a two-year hiatus, unveiling a new lineup, refreshed live sound, and a reimagined version of one of the band’s best-known live songs.
The band will perform live on 30 May at Geihinkan on Albert Street in Auckland CBD, marking the first official performance from the latest incarnation of Channeled.
The current lineup features founding member Ben Ruegg alongside Michelle Anderton on bass, Damen Newby on guitar, and Nico Leiseder on drums.
The intimate Auckland performance will act as a launch point for upcoming live activity, including future shows and a planned North Island tour later in the year.
The show also coincides with the upcoming release of a newly reworked version of When You Just Can’t Turn The Volume Down, originally released on Channeled’s second album. Rather than recreating the original track, the new recording reshapes it through the lens of the band’s commitment to performing live.
Early responses to the updated version have described the song as “a blistering sonic attack in its opening moments before unexpectedly opening into a more reflective and atmospheric second half.” The release revisits familiar material while exploring the song from a completely different perspective for the first time.
Since first emerging as a solo project led by Ben Ruegg, Channeled has gradually evolved into a project built around layered guitar arrangements, emotionally driven songwriting, and dynamic live performances. The latest lineup reflects the beginning of a new creative chapter for the project with a lot of new material currently in the works.
Held in the intimate setting of Geihinkan, the Auckland show has intentionally been designed as a smaller-capacity performance, giving audiences an opportunity to experience the band in a close live environment before larger performances and touring plans are announced.
The evening will also feature a special guest opening act, with merchandise available at the venue.
Event Details:
Channeled Live at Geihinkan
30 May 2026 @ Geihinkan Japanese Bar, Albert Street, Auckland CBD
Tickets on sale 9:00am Friday 15 May.
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