TARANAKI'S BEST KEPT SECRET FRANK JOHN & ERIN MANU – ACOUSTIC DUO “Frank & Erin’s music is enrapturing!”

Originally from Amsterdam, Frank John brings his technical brilliance to this New Plymouth-based duo. Frank has be a feature of the music retail industry for more than 30 years, sharing his love of acoustic guitars. Taranaki- born wife Erin Manu was raised in a home full of music, and provides driving rhythm guitar. Erin is a member of the All-Gal Eagles Tribute Band – The Eagals. Along with Frank and Cameron Dusty' Burnell, Erin founded an Americarna/Bluegrass band - THE FEDZ – and she has collaborated with various folk/accoustic-aligned performers.

Their EP "LOST FOR WORDS" - is a compilation of some of their original instrumentals, and available to purchase. Each composition is finely crafted and features Rob Greenfield (bass), Ryan John (guitar), Jude Douglas (violin), Liz Merton (violin) and Cindy Muggeridge (keyboard).

Whether it’s a sizzling acoustic instrumental or the soulful delivery of a ballad, they capture the essence of guitar and song through the variations of the acoustic genres – folk, blues, country, swing and classical – all wrapped into a neat Kiwi-Dutch package. They perform some hidden gems, well known standards and their own compositions.

“What a fabulous night it was! Frank & Erin’s music is enrapturing!”- Sadie & Jay

“Beautifully concise guitar playing, tasty harmonies, well-crafted originals and brilliant covers” – Chris Penman

The Faustians play the old music of the Appalachian Mountains with songs of the pioneers, haunting ballads, old gospels, and tub-thumping dance tunes, and some dark originals.

Helena’s enduring commitment to the Old-time music developed during her 10 years in West Virginia steeped in the local traditions. Returning to NZ in 2003 she assembled oldtime band Cotton Daisy Backstep and then the Faustians. They have been playing cafes, folk clubs, festivals and square dances around the Wellington area appearing at events such as CupaDupa, Wellington Gardens Magic, Newtown Festival and Wellington Folk festival [People’s Choice Award 1918].

Band members include: Helena Faust on banjo/vocals, Philip Muollo on guitar, Bill Vella on double bass, and a surprise guest on fiddle. 

Bringing you that old back porch sound no book-learning can give; indeed, this is the mountain roots of Americana.

What people say
“Wow you guys are amazing, I love what you do” Anonymous Fan
“I felt transported to another time” Lots of folks says this
“Helena needs no microphone, her voice powerful and mountainy” A guy at Wellyfest