A Triumph for Kiwi Music: Independent Folk Artist Mel Parsons Hits #1 on Official NZ Top 40 Album Chart

Tūī-winning indie folk songwriter Mel Parsons has achieved a career-defining milestone with her seventh studio album, Castle Hill, debuting at #1 on the Official NZ Top 40 Albums Chart.

This marks Parsons’ first-ever #1 on the national Top 40 chart; a monumental moment that serves as a massive victory for independent Kiwi artistry. Operating outside the major label ecosystem, Parsons now becomes only the second New Zealand act to claim the Top 40 summit this year, following Six60’s reign in February with Right Here Right Now.

Castle Hill also secured the #1 spot on the Top 20 Aotearoa Albums Chart, eclipsing her previous career high of #2, held by both Sabotage (2024) and Slow Burn (2022).

Recorded live in a single room in the powerfully picturesque South Island high country station of the same name (Castle Hill / Kura Tāwhiti), the LP captures an undeniable raw authenticity. Produced by Josh Logan, the record features longtime bandmates Aaron Stewart (bass) and Jed Parsons (drums), alongside acclaimed guitarist Ben King (Goldenhorse, Grand Rapids).

Castle Hill is available to stream and purchase now on all digital platforms,

About Mel Parsons:

Mel Parsons is an award-winning indie-folk singer-songwriter from Aotearoa New Zealand. With seven studio albums to her name, she is recognized as one of the country’s most compelling live performers and songwriters.