Te Vaka - Olatia
Spirit of Play
Pumping through the veins of the Polynesian's heart, discover the tribal and passionate sound of Te Vaka's fifth album Olatia. Written by the widely respected Opetaia Foa'i, the people's musical voice of the past and present, unveiling political and spiritual issues. Te Vaka is the most internationally recognised modern Polynesian band. Comprising of eleven native musicians and dancers, four of which are part of the Foa'i family, who through their music are trying to keep their traditional culture alive.
The album emulates an earthy grounding beat, full of melody. Never straying from their roots. The theme of nature atmospherically binds some of the tracks together. Each track has it's own strength. Birdsong opens Ki Te Fakaolatia (To The Resue) singing of the survival of their environment and the power of life. Changing the tune is Nonu Paoa (Nonu Power), an energetic journey, chanting along powerfully enforcing the importance of uniting families together. The wide spectrum of instruments in the album simply diversifies the feel and the sound of the Pacific culture. Lima Tane features the Hawaiian ipu, which was a gift to Foa'i during their tour of Hawaii in 2005 - a very inspiring beat.
This collection of 13 tracks expresses the intense desire to share their story, also covering issues such as global warming. The lyrics, which are mainly in Tokeelau, but also in Tuvaluan and Samoan, are translated into English in the accompanying 16-page booklet. The tone of the majority of these tracks is of a powerful spirit, however there is also the voice of a broken heart, representing the sadness of the loss of identity in this region. Olatia is to be promoted at the Rugby World Cup in France where Te Vaka shall be guests. The Polynesians should be proud to have a band like Te Vaka to represent their people.
Lucy Wyatt
