A lot can change for a band in the space of four years – just ask B2KDA.

For the band, also known as Batucada Sound Machine, there's been a shortening of the band's name, an intense touring schedule, a couple of line-up changes, plus a new sound – and all in the space of four years.

Today marks the worldwide release of B2KDA's latest album ‘Rising' and to celebrate they'll be performing at the Mauao Performing Arts Centre on Friday, October 16. Photo: Supplied.

But one thing that hasn't changed for the eight-piece band is that drive and desire to smash out tunes that gets people grooving and moving all over the place.

This week marks the release of B2KDA's latest studio album Rising, and guitarist/vocalist Joel Shadbolt says the band is hugely proud of the record.

'This new album's got a great feel to it and sounds really fresh, all with that B2KDA vibe that people love,” says Joel.

'Over the last few years the band's sound has been evolving and this latest album is real bass and groove heavy, on top of those flavours that B2KDA are known for.”

Formed in Auckland back in 2003, B2KDA is the melting pot theory in action, with members of Māori, Brazilian, Zimbabwean, Indian, Croatian, and New Zealand Pākeha descent.

Their music is a tasty brew of Brazilian, Colombian, Cuban and African beats, fused with funk, reggae, hip-hop and Polynesian soul.

Joel says to celebrate the release of Rising they areembarking on a three-stop tour that will see them play shows in Auckland, Wellington and Tauranga.

B2KDA, with support from Auckland's Siobhan Leilani, will be performing at the Mauao Performing Art Centre on Friday, October 16.

Joel says the band are hyped and can't wait to get stuck into the tour, which kicks off in Auckland.

'We're definitely excited for the tour, our rehearsals so far have been really good and the band's sounding really, really tight.

'The upcoming Mauao gig will see us performing pretty much the whole album bar one or two songs, plus we'll be doing the classic tunes and fan faves as well. It's going to be a huge night.”

B2KDA with Siobhan Leilani will be performing at the Mauao Performing Arts Centre on Friday, October 16. Tickets cost $20 on the door or $15 presales via the Eventfinda website.

Check out B2KDA's latest single ‘Same Old Thing' below: