HAERE MAI

Te Ao Hou, September 1966, Page 63

HAERE MAI Kiwi LC-29 12 in 33½ LP Basically the idea of this record is a good one. It is intended as a contribution to the current tourist promotion in connection with Haeremai year—as an attractive souvenir collection by a number of Kiwi recording groups to illustrate the diversity of Maori music and dance. The chants, haka and songs are linked by a short spoken commentary by “Miss Haere-Mai”. This also is a good idea. The tourist can return home and tell of his adventures in the depths of the far-off South Pacific. To prove it he can produce a record of gen-you-eyne May-oree music with a gen-you-eyne Noo Zealand May-oree providing a brief commentary. Unfortunately as soon as “Miss Haere-mai” opens her mouth one realises that this record is going to be less than completely satisfying. As “Miss Haere-mai” sing-songs her way through the script, stalking pure Strine (Kiwi version), one longs for the rolling cadences and pure vowel sounds which are Maori speech at its best. Apart from this not inconsiderable flaw, the record is a good one. The cover proclaiming it to be “a welcome to New Zealand in Maori song, chant and haka”, is colourful and eye-catching. The selection of items on the disc, beginning with a most attractive little verse in English by Kiri Te Kanawa and entitled Haere Mai, is first class. It features some of the best Maori amateur groups in New Zealand today. A record of Maori music providing such a variety and range of item and artists is most welcome.