Kobalt Signs New Zealand Alt-Pop Duo Balu Brigada

Kobalt has made a major new signing with the arrival of Balu Brigada on its roster.

The leading independent music publisher has signed the New Zealand-born alt-pop duo of brothers Henry and Pierre Beasley, who say they're "stoked" to be working with Kobalt "for the next chapter of our writing career."

“After a long period of self-sufficiency in the publishing space, we’re looking forward to the opportunities and the experimentation that will come from working with this wide and passionate team," they add.

"Signing Balu Brigada to Kobalt Music Publishing worldwide reflects everything we believe in — backing artists who are already resonating globally and partnering with management teams who understand their vision. The band have created an undeniable momentum through their music, cultural identity and with their live show,” says Simon Moor, Managing Director APAC, Kobalt.

“Our role now is to work alongside the band and their management, building on that success with fast global licensing, market reach, and expanded synch support to ensure their songs have the platforms they deserve around the world."

“We’re thrilled to welcome Balu Brigada to the Kobalt family. Their rising global momentum makes Kobalt the perfect home, especially as our DNA has always been about working collaboratively across territories to help elevate our client’ visions,” adds Amanda Tufeld, Sr. Director A&R at Kobalt. “ At their core, Henry and Pierre are exceptional songwriters, and look forward to diving in together.”

Balu Brigada's Kobalt signing follows a major career year for the duo in 2026, which included US chart success, a first US headline tour, and a support slot for Twenty One Pilots in multiple countries.

They also released their debut album Portal last year, which landed at No. 20 on Rolling Stone AU/NZ's 50 Best New Zealand Albums of 2025 list. "It’s safe to say Balu Brigada are one of the biggest success stories in modern New Zealand music," the publication wrote. "The fact the brothers wrote and produced Portal entirely on their own makes their debut even more impressive."

Portal, released last August, found the brothers cementing their place as one of the most exciting new voices in alt-pop.

In other Balu Brigada news, the duo will bring their live show back to Australia this year.

In support of their acclaimed debut album, Balu Brigada will kick off the tour at The Triffid in Brisbane on May 28th, before further stops in Adelaide on May 20th, Perth on May 31st, Melbourne on June 4th, and Sydney on June 5th.

Balu Brigada 2026 Australia Tour

For complete tour and ticket information, see here. 

Wednesday, March 27th (NEW SHOW) The Triffid, Brisbane QLD

Thursday, May 28th (SOLD OUT) The Triffid, Brisbane QLD

Saturday, May 30th Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide SA

Sunday, May 31st Freo Social, Perth WA

Wednesday, June 3rd (NEW SHOW) 170 Russell, Melbourne VIC

Thursday, June 4th (SOLD OUT) 170 Russell, Melbourne VIC

Friday, June 5th (SOLD OUT) Metro Theatre, Sydney NSW

Saturday, June 6th (NEW SHOW) Metro Theatre, Sydney NSW