Roots South Celebrates Local Pasifika Bands
Pacific Underground’s newest event that replaces the annual Pacific Arts Festival is ‘Pacific Roots South’ a series of
music gigs that continues the celebration of New Zealand’s Pacific indigenous contemporary bands out of the South
Island.
The Dux de Lux in Christchurch will host Pacific Roots South on Thursday 15 July after an APRA / AMCOS music industry
workshop in the tavern Bar.
The Christchurch bands featured are Pacific Underground who will open the night with a five piece unit lead by core
members Pos Mavaega (lead guitar / vocals), Tanya Muagututi’a (lead vocal / guitar) and Chris Searle (drums). Songs from
their popular guitar show Island Summer also features Hemi Lesatele (guitar / vocals) and youngster Talia-Rae Mavaega
(guitar / vocals). Fresh from their performances in Dunedin and Palmeston North during the Matariki season of gigs,
Pacific Underground’s island flavour is an excellent warm-up for reggae band D’sendantz.
D’sendantz growing popularity due to regular gig spots at Tru Bar, Sol Squre and Poplar Lane brings a raw energy of
roots reggae from a tight rhythm section laced with the smooth and strong vocals of Jerry Taukamo and Marcel Bramao.
D’sendantz original songs are influenced by NZ’s own roots – Katchafire sound, the difference being that the funk rhythm
of Pos Mavaega (bass), Jason JJ Otene (drums) and Rob Payne (keys), present a distinctive reggae – funk sound.
D’sendantz members are descendants of Ngati Porou, Nga Puhi, Samoa, Portugal and Scotland, a true mix of indigenous
flavours.
To finish the night is Vela who bring a stellar sound that originates from rock blues, played exquisitely by blues and
rock icons Fa’amoana John Luafutu (lead guitar /vocals) and Clay Paviel (bass). Their last appearance at the
Christchurch ‘I Love The Islands’ Tsuani Relief concert at the Westpac Arena last year sent a hush across the crowd as
the Jimi Hendrix-like anthems from the seasoned Samoan musicians reminded everyone in the room that the gathering of
Pacific musicians nationwide for the Samoa, and the strength of the national network started with people like Fa’amoana
who’s early connections with the Polynesian Panthers, Pacific Underground and many bands. Fa’amoana is also known as
Scribe’s dad.
Future Pacific Roots South will take place in Dunedin and Christchurch, and in the past year has already featured guest
artists, J Williams and Ladi 6, and Dunedin reggae band ‘Koile.
ENDS