Castaway Deliver Nostalgic Anthem on Final Single ‘Golden Era’
Aotearoa’s rising pop-rock force Castaway continue their momentum with the release of their new single, Golden Era – the last glimpse before releasing their debut album.
Castaway are five mates bound by music. Formed in Ōtautahi Christchurch, the band comprises Austen (bass), Jack (saxophone, keys), Jackson (vocals, keys, guitar), Joe (vocals, drums), and Rhys (guitar). The band blends pop-rock with alternative influences, and a boy-band flair. Their sound features driving guitars, punchy rhythms, sax-driven hooks and dual vocals – brought to life through high-energy performances built on anthemic choruses and emotional connection, leaving crowds singing, dancing, and feeling it all.
Following their recent success opening for Six60 and Synthony at One NZ Stadium, and the growing traction of recent singles Heart Attack and Reasons To Stay, Castaway close their run of singles with Golden Era. This is their last release before their highly anticipated debut album.
Golden Era is an infectious indie pop anthem driven by soaring vocals, shimmering guitars, and a relentless synth-led groove. Blending modern production with the euphoria of youth, the track captures the feeling of summer nights, newfound freedom, and moments that feel like they could last forever.
At its heart, Golden Era is a nostalgic reflection on growing up and the fleeting nature of the moments we once took for granted. Looking back on the freedom, excitement, and reckless optimism of being young, the song embraces the desire to hold onto a golden period of life even as it slips into memory. Euphoric and bittersweet in equal measure, it’s a celebration of living in the moment while knowing that one day, we’ll look back and realise just how good we had it.
Castaway have evolved from university jam sessions to sharing stages with Mitch James and Drax Project, earning spins across ZM, The Hits, More FM, Radio Hauraki, and RNZ, and stepping onto some of the country’s biggest stages. On May 16, the five-piece performed at the ‘Once In A Lifetime’ opening of One NZ Stadium in Ōtautahi, supporting Six60 and Synthony alongside Kaylee Bell and Cassie Henderson. The momentum shows no signs of slowing, with Castaway recently announced as part of the lineup for Electric Avenue 2027, further cementing their place among Aotearoa’s most exciting emerging acts.
Golden Era by Castaway is out on all streaming platforms.
