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# Play For Keeps are stuck on repeat reliving the nostalgic sounds of the 2010s
- URL: https://www.emptyspaces.co.nz/play-for-keeps-are-stuck-on-repeat-reliving-the-nostalgic-sounds-of-the-2010s/
- Published: 2026-07-08T03:24:45.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-08T03:24:44.000Z
- Author: Nick Raven
- Tags: Music

Who remembers 2010? If you need a reminder, put on Play For Keeps. The Christchurch five piece embody the guitar driven, synth laced indie pop that defined an era. Their debut EP, *HEY LOVE*, is out now.

The four track release features *Handsome Boy*, *Presumptuous*, *Out Of The Dark*, and the title track, *Hey Love*, which explores the realities of long term commitment once the honeymoon period fades. Bass player Tim Cederman says the song is about the tension between joy and hardship in relationships.

> **It dives into the raw, unfiltered reality of choosing love through difficult moments, where ecstasy and pain exist side by side.**

Produced by Tom Healy, whose credits include Marlon Williams, Nadia Reid, and Tiny Ruins, *HEY LOVE* is the first EP from the band since reintroducing themselves as Play For Keeps earlier this year. The group previously performed under the name Ellie Oak before revealing a new name, sound, and direction.

The release follows a strong start for the Ōtautahi band, with performances at festivals including Nostalgia, support from New Zealand student radio, and thousands of streams across Apple Music and Spotify.

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