New Zealand lads Kora are heading across the Tasman after an extended break from the live stage. 

With the release of last year’s longplayer 'Light Years', the Kora men pushed headfirst into a hectic schedule of touring that included a number of summer festivals. Now, after enjoying a bit of time to themselves, they've regathered their thoughts and instruments and are ready to lug their equipment once more around Australia. But band member Richie Allan hopes they'll be able to snaffle a little sightseeing as well.

“We've been to the UK about three times, and we've toured Europe in places like Germany. As far as Japan, US and Singapore as well. It's one of those things where you don't get to do as much sightseeing as you'd love to, but when you get back home that's when you think 'damn, I should have visited that place'. But at the time it doesn't cross your mind.”

Influenced by reggae, funk, soul and a collection of other musical elements, the brains trust in the Kora equation is so diverse. The inspiration for their music, however, can be found by looking at the stars. Allan says it's the unknown that triggers the band member’s imaginations.

“We like aspects of space and the universe, as well as documentaries relating to that kind of stuff. It's something out there, something you can get in the zone to. We were big hip hop fans as well, and were into some older Daft Punk stuff, so it all comes through in the music.”

Life on the road has its tribulations, but Richie says it's nothing short of rewarding.

“We just like performing. It can get pretty tiring but it's good when you get into autopilot mode. You know, you're a total zombie but you always try and put on a good show.”

Richie says the group’s musical push into more electronic territory can take some getting used to, but it's a part of who they are as a band.

“It really depends on how you promote it. People need to grow into it, and sometimes it might take a while to absorb something fresh. We just did it for fun, and it all happened at once because we'd been jamming all our lives.”

Kora play The Zoo Saturday June 22.