Smokefree Pacifica Beats 2008 Grand Final Winners

29 September 2008

Maori cultural pop rock band Upper2Street have won the annual national Smokefree Pacifica Beats competition. With band members hailing from Wairoa High School in northern Hawke’s Bay, the dual female vocal-led band made a stand out performance on Saturday night at Auckland’s Beaumont Centre with a sound blending modern pop rock and traditional Maori waiata.

Upper2Street beat five other high school bands to receive the coveted prize pack that includes musical equipment from Musicworks to the value of $3,500 and the guaranteed recording of two songs for the band.

Second place went to Tone Def from Aotea College in Porirua, and special mention was made to the amazing performance of The Essence from Papatoetoe high school who also won the APRA Songwriters Award.

Upper2Street were very professional musically and looked visually striking with a blend of modern and traditional Maori dress, including full face painted Moko on the male band members.

Event co-organiser Elena Lome said “It was an awesome night of talent and music from our youth, showcasing what’s in store for the future for the New Zealand/Aotearoa Music industry.”

The event was judged by an esteemed judging panel include representatives from NZ On Air, I AM TV, a local music directer and well known Maori soul singer Tama Waipara.
Performances throughout the night were made by soul singer Tyra Hammond of The Open Souls while the last of the night’s musical entertainment came from Christchurch MC Scribe who performed a high energy set while the judges made their final decisions.

NZ On Air judge Tania Dean said “Upper2Street is a hugely talented band who made a standout performance, with great songs, a great look, and an engaging stage presence. Deserving winners!”

OFFICIAL RESULTS

1st Place Grand Champions

Upper2street from Wairoa College, Wairoa

2nd Place Runners Up

Tone Def from Aotea College, Porirua

APRA Songwriters Award

The Essence from Papatoetoe High School, Papatoetoe

Smokefree Best MC Award

Viliamu Vaisagote, iiTunez from Alfriston College, Manurewa

Smokefree Best Vocals Award

Tone Def from Aotea College, Porirua

Stage Image Award