- artist:Ariana Tikao
- release year:2002
- style(s):Songwriter
- country:New Zealand
- formats:CD (Compact Disc)
- record posted by:Maorimusic.com
- label:maorimusic.com
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Ariana Tikao - Whaea
Ariana Tikao’s Whaea (meaning
Motherhood) album is a celebration of motherhood that is inspired by her own recent journey as a mother. The album is all in Te Reo Maori, drawing upon contemporary music styles such as hip-hop and dub but with a strong emphasis on Maori chant and traditional sounds.
A notable feature of Whaea is the inclusion of many taoka puoro, traditional Maori instruments, performed by Richard Nunns.
The album begins with a migration story about our tipuna’s (ancestors’) origins in the Pacific, a waiata about the cycle of life (Pupuhi Rau).
It then goes on to speak of a personal journey of identity (Mihi), love (Hoa Rakatira) and then various stages of welcoming a new babe into this world (Whaea, Oriori, Ukaipo and Whenua ki te Whenua).
The album speaks of the challenges which lie before us, particularly with respect to the survival of the Maori language (Ka Huri Te Wa) and follows with a plea for women to stand up and be strong (E Hoa). The final waiata (He Mata i te Waiora) is a tribute to our ancestors.
Christchurch-based singer/ composer Ariana Tikao has been involved in the New Zealand music scene since 1993 when she was one of the founding members of the group Pounamu, who performed extensively throughout New Zealand and also toured Australia, UK and France.
Pounamu released a CD Mihi in 1996, which contained compositions by Ariana Tikao.
In 2001 Ariana released a CD single of Whaea (which featured on the best-selling compilation He Karanga). At this time, Ariana appeared on both He Wai and Mai Time TV shows.
The Whaea album is superbly packaged and the CD booklet includes all of the Maori lyrics as well as detailed English-language notes on each song.
Richard Nunns explains the various taoka puoro used with the relevant waiata.
A music video of Ka Huri Te Wa will feature on many music TV shows and Ariana will be appearing in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland over the next 2-3 months.