Mel Parsons claims Top 40 #1 album with Castle HillAugust 17, 2026

Tūī-winning indie folk artist Mel Parsons entered the Top 40 Albums Chart at #1 on Friday, with her seventh studio album, Castle Hill – the artist’s first-ever Top 40 #1 album.

Parsons becomes just the second act from Aotearoa to land a Top 40 #1 this year. Six60 also achieved the feat in February, with Right Here Right Now.

Castle Hill also leads the Top 20 Aotearoa Albums Chart – another first for the hard-working Parsons, who has previously peaked on the Chart at #2 with Sabotage (2024) and Slow Burn (2022).

Recorded in the powerfully picturesque South Island high country station of the same name (Castle Hill / Kura Tāwhiti), the LP was produced by Josh Logan and recorded live in a single room with longtime bandmates Aaron Stewart (bass) and Jed Parsons (drums), alongside guitarist Ben King (Goldenhorse, Grand Rapids).

Recorded Music NZ CEO Jo Oliver says:

“Reaching #1 on the Top 40 is a standout achievement for artists from Aotearoa. Mel Parsons is a wonderful example of an artist who has built a dedicated audience over time. Having first featured in the Top 40 fifteen years ago and with two Top 5 albums already to her name, she has now made it to the pinnacle with this, her seventh album. Congratulations Mel!"