Original Contemporary Pacific Music

We LOVE this music! You can't help but dance to the music and WISH you could be there on the islands. This is the best collection of Polynesian music I have ever experienced. Outstanding!

mahalo

This is one of the best CD's available and I own nearly a thousand. Opetaia Foa'i who founded the group was born on Western Samoa from a Tokelauen father and Tuvaluen mother. He grew up in New Zealand speaking Tokelau the language he mostly records in. The band consists of Maori, Samoan, New Zealand and Cook Islanders and reflects the mix of cultural elements. You can hear contemporary instruments mixed in with traditional log drums and even chest beating, (at least I think I heard that).As a high school teacher I have used this music for independent study time in lieu of other contemporary music which I also allow. Believe it or not I get repeated request to play this because it is so rhythmic and upbeat, this from 16 to 18 year olds in 2005 says something.

I saw Te Vaka for the first time at a concert. I was so impressed not only by their music, but the dancing was spectacular to watch.I don't own any of the cd's yet, but I sure will buy them now!

This album was a welcome change from what type of music that generally comes out of the Pacific (rehashed reggae covers of other artist's songs). Hopefully that trend will end. Te Vaka is thoroughy original and true to it's Pacific roots despite the use of modern instruments. It's fun when it needs to be fun and serious when it deals with issues that are serious. (Tagi Sina) None of it is pretentious and overall, it's a brilliant composition. A definite must have!

This is a rare find. If you're thinking it's just a bunch of obscure, badly recorded native island songs, you're wrong. It's a well produced, wonderful fusion of charming, soulful, and catchy island songs, blended with rich and melodic rhythms and music -- contemporary western and island instruments. The vocals are enchanting. The songs are the kind you might hum or sing to yourself. Easily, the best music of its kind. What Ofra Haza did for Isreali Music, Te Vaka does for Pacific Island Music.

Always loved Te Vaka (Canoe).Having heard a bunch of CDs and video tracks, I am used to their way of interpreting the sounds of the South Pacific cultures. So much heart and soul and well thought out arrangements are produced to enable the indigeouness ambiance and drive to shine through with the more modern, progressive influences.If you have never heard their performances before this is a good place to start.