
Mahinarangi Tocker: Hei Ha
By Liz Barry
Mahinarangi Tocker has one of the most breathtaking, captivating voices in Aotearoa. And all of the 16 exquisite songs on this, her first solo album in five years, are pure listening pleasure. 'Hei Ha' has something for all moods; from the radio-friendly Danger Kissing, to the anthemic Forever, the personal Maggie Goodbye, to the powerful Kei Hea Koe (co-produced with Charlotte Yates, whom Tocker toured with in mid 2002), and the inspirational When I Grow Up (used by the Mental Health Foundation for their 2002 TV campaign). Tocker's Jewish/Maori heritage also plays an important role in her songwriting and her concern over the Israeli/Palestinian situation is evoked through the very moving song, Holy Laws. As well as English language songs, there are five short Maori waiata, which include members of her family. 'Hei Ha' is Mahinarangi at her best. It's that freshness, beauty and originality that makes Mahinarangi Tocker so special.
Related Information