Craig Payne and Acclaimed Producer Michael Graham Collaborate on Groundbreaking New Album
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – September 2, 2026 – New Zealand recording artist Craig Payne is preparing to unveil what promises to be his most ambitious and innovative musical project to date.
Following the release of his 2026 album, Moving & Shaking, which became available across major streaming and digital download platforms on February 27, Payne has continued to push creative boundaries while exploring a diverse range of musical styles. Now, with a brand-new album entering its final stages of production, anticipation is building for what could become a defining moment in his artistic journey.
Adding further significance to the project is the involvement of acclaimed producer Michael Graham, former Chief Engineer at Lodge Studios in Indianapolis, USA. Throughout his distinguished career, Graham has worked alongside some of the music industry's most recognized names, including Weezer, Eminem, and John Legend. Taking the lead on production, Graham has helped shape a sound that is both distinctive and compelling, bringing international expertise to the project.
Michael Graham
The album's production began in Christchurch, New Zealand, where Craig Payne recorded the foundational tracks. The Pro Tools sessions were then transferred to Graham in Indianapolis, where the project evolved through an extensive process of editing, arrangement refinement, track enhancement, mixing, and final mastering. The result is a carefully crafted collection of songs that reflects the combined creative vision of artist and producer.
The forthcoming album is currently being finalized and is expected to be released in early 2027. Fans can also look forward to the project's lead single, anticipated for release in late 2026, offering the first exciting glimpse into the new material.
"The results have been incredible," says Payne. "This project represents a major step forward creatively, and I can't wait for people to hear what we've been working on."
In the months leading up to the album's release, listeners can expect a series of teaser campaigns, behind-the-scenes content, promotional features, and exclusive previews that will provide insight into the creative process behind the record.
While anticipation continues to build, fans can explore Craig Payne's existing catalogue, including Moving & Shaking, across all major streaming and download platforms.
With new music, exclusive content, and exciting announcements on the horizon, Craig Payne Music will continue to keep fans informed as the countdown to release day begins.
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