Te Vaka: Nukukehe
By Liz Barry
Te Vaka's third album, 'Nukukehe (A Different Land)' offered this reviewer a musical respite from winter with a journey into the sun drenched rhythms of the Pacific where I could quite imagine I was lying under palms instead of turning the heater up another notch. Te Vaka, led by Opetaia Foa'i, have brought original, traditionally influenced, contemporary Pacific music to the world since 1997 and have toured extensively, receiving rave reviews. Foa'i is an outstanding songwriter, whose songs speak of his strong love for his island homeland, address environmental issues, and the loss of old friends. The beautifully presented booklet accompanying the CD explains how the album was inspired by his recent visits to Samoa, Tokelau and Tuvalu, and also provides English lyrics to the 14 songs. 'Nukukehe' showcases Te Vaka's natural affinity for dynamic percussion with infectious rhythms and will further enhance the group's reputation as New Zealand's most dynamic Pacific group.
Related Information