According to the albums publicists, this is Moana and the Tribe’s 5th Studio album, and it wasn’t what I was expecting. This was primarily a good thing as I like surprises but it did catch me a little off guard.
The production of the record harks back to the late 90’s. Paddy Free (Pitch Black) takes us on a sonically nostalgic journey. Stages of the trip however, sometimes felt a little dated, when compared to the bombastic textures of more recent artists such as Kora and Tiki Taane. However, saying that, the record is crisp and everything sits nicely.
The record features some beautiful Te Reo, which is really refreshing, despite the fact that it will cut a huge chunk of their domestic market out. Strangely, I thought after listening to this record that it would fare probably better in countries like Germany than it would probably do here, despite having such strong Kiwi themes.
It will be really interesting to see how this record does. I can’t see it breaking the mainstream, but it will do extremely well in the world music circles and in places like the Nelson Bays. I hope that Iwi radio picks the singles up, so that this unique balance of traditional instrumentation and electronica can develop further.
Stand out track for my was Put Your Hand Up and I have to say the musicianship couldn’t be faulted. There are a couple of great guest appearances also, namely Grant Haua (Swamp Thing) and Don McGlashan.
A well produced record that re-enforces why Moana and the Tribe are one of our key cultural ambassadors abroad.
About the author Joel C Blood
My name is Joel C Blood and I am a reviewer here at www.muzic.net.nz. Please feel free to PM me on FB and I will endeavor to review your material in due course. For more information on my profile please check out my Facebook link.
