RIMA

RIMA is my 5th major album. This self-funded collection of 11 songs was produced by dubmeister Paddy Free. It was recorded in beautiful Piha, on the shores of Lake Rotorua and in Blair Castle (Glasgow) over 12 months. At least 3 songs were written during the 70 minute drive from Muriwai Beach to Piha. Paddy kept a straight face as I'd burst into his studio and say, 'Quick, push the button before I forget it.'

All the songs on this album are inspired by individuals and communities who are so passionate about Land, Ocean and People, they are moved to create change. They get off the fence. They put their hands up. They stick their necks out, even when its not the most popular thing to do. The truth is ordinary people can and do make a difference.

RIMA is all about exploring and celebrating people power. 

The album opens with Whole Worlds Watching, the song that had this years Womad audiences on their feet. Warrior Woman pays tribute to strong women everywhere. Seashell is dedicated to the many NZers working to protect our Ocean and seabed. Rangatahi salutes young people who inspire us with their reo and oratory. Not Alone celebrates a new generation of celestial navigators and sailors in the Pacific. Aotearoa with its stirring big beats is a celebration of the primal beauty of N.Z. House of Strife co-written with Don McGlashan, is a duet with a real difference...

Water People features songman Djakapurra (Australia) and musicians from Scottish band Breabach on bagpipes and fiddle. Bagpipes, dub, taonga puoro and haka...nothing like it.

Some songs are in English, others in Maori - thanks to Scott Morrison, Dr Patu Hohepa, Kemara Kennedy and Aroha Yates-Smith. My band play across the tracks and sound wonderful. Watch the video and judge for yourself. Israel Birch, one of my favourite artists, has created the beautiful album cover. I'm grateful to Te Waka Toi (CNZ) for funding the final 5 songs on RIMA.

More of Moana & the Tribe here