The month of May marks New Zealand Music Month, which highlights the harmonic tones and inspired rhythm of New Zealand music. It was only appropriate that I speak to my favourite New Zealand singer-songwriter, Maisey Rika.
Ms Rika's effortless soprano captivates audiences worldwide, and along with her brother JJ on the guitar, each song harbours its own unique sound combining socially conscious lyrics with pristine musical arrangement.
A month of pride
Suite101: What does New Zealand Music Month mean to you?
"It is music month for me every month. If im not singing or gigging I'm usually writing or being inspired to write in some way."
Suite101: What condition do you think New Zealand music is in currently?
"Most New Zealand music is outside the square that I think is just great - not conforming to the norm and having your own unique flare is liberating. But there are artists that are too similar to American artists, why be like that? We should set standards, not copy others."
Suite101: How have you celebrated it in the past?
"It is like this from one month to another these days - living and breathing music, I am so humbled and privileged to do so."
Performing at gigs around New Zealand
Maisey and her band headline major musical festivals in New Zealand, phenomenal experiences inspire the group to return to the event the following year.
Suite101: You performed at Polyfest this year, why did you decide to do that?
"I did it last year and it was a great experience for me and my band members, so we are fortunate enough to be asked again and this time there a more gigs around and more venues, which is just awesome. I love travelling the globe doing what I love to do, it is the greatest mahi ("Mahi" translates to work/job in the Maori language) you could ever hope for."
Suite101: Can you tell me about the gig in Parramatta for the Christchurch fundraiser?
"Massive venue. It was out in a park surrounded by nature like home (in New Zealand). Here the stage was lit with lights and the shops created the barrier of the courtyard where the audience were standing. (It) felt safe and secure in our little bubble of music, you would never think we were bang smack in the middle of the city. The organisers were lovely, we got to catch a few performances of some wicked bands and vocalists during and after sound check, it was wet but when we got on the stage we just gave it our all and had a great time."
Suite101: You have been recognised as a singer-songwriter, do you prefer one over the other?
"Straight away I think singer as that is how I started off."
Aden Miles - Aden is a journalist, writer and artist with a passion for music, food and telling people's stories.
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