“Peachy Keen craft vivd tales of love life that range from the dark and melancholic Stealing to the upbeat jazz of Down Down Down. The jazz drumming of Ben Lockwood, haunting violin of Tam Taylor and sublime piano of Nigel Braddock complement each other brilliantly, turning every track into a piece of beauty. However it is the storytelling lyrics and smooth vocals of Kathryn van Beek which make this such a satisfying listen, again and again. Sultry and Sensual, this album is guaranteed to seduce.” ***** Rip It Up

Peachy Keen had a gig at the sadly now defunct Odeon Lounge in Auckland one night and were approached afterwards by two filmmakers who loved the music and wanted to make a video for the band.

The resulting video for the single ‘Not Your Kind of Girl’ was shot on 8mm film by Simon Parsons, and was directed by Natalie Hitchcock. It was filmed over sixteen hours at the Galatos Lounge Bar. Acclaimed choreographer Guy Ryan features as a jilted lover who tries to win Kathryn over with a dance routine on the bar.

The final film is a surreal, evocative and bittersweet tale of disappointed love.

Not Your Kind of Girl was the first single released from the Auckland-based noir lounge pop band’s self-titled debut album.

The Peachy Keen album might not have happened if it wasn’t for the timely appearance of a fairy godmother. While they were playing at The Wellington Fringe they were approached by a German writer who was so impressed she offered them money to record an album. This enabled the band to purchase some recording gear and so their debut album was born.
The album was recorded by Nigel at his home studio in Westmere, Auckland late 2003 and mixed at Monkey Records at Bethel’s Beach in mid 2004. The piano parts were recorded on a full-size concert Steinway at SCAPA in Auckland and special guests include Kingsley Melhuish on trumpet and Ben Campbell (Ddub) on saxophone.
Peachy Keen have made two music videos. Their first, ‘Big Truck’, was filmed as part of the 48hr film competition in 2003 and their second for ‘Not Your Kind of Girl’ was shot in glorious 8mm by Simon Parsons and directed by Natalie Hitchcock.
Unfortunately Peachy Keen disbanded in 2004 but the music lives on.