Hori and Hemi buzz on

Tu Tangata, Issue 26, 1 October 1985, Page 34

Hori and Hemi buzz on

by Janey Wilson

Star Quest 83 winners Hori and Hemi have not retired. The Taitokerau maori/reggae duo are still composing and singing and are determined to release a record with their band Ahurangi, some time this year.

They were both buzzing about the future development of a contemporary Polynesian sound at the second Hui Kaitito held in Rotorua last April. However, a definite Carribean sound in contemporary maori music was criticised at the hui. One thing they have come across during their musical evolution is that the maori haka beat has a reggae like sound. “We're into reggae music. Its got a positive message and it’s from the heart,” said Hori Hapimana, percussionist and singer. “We want our cultural music to have a place in today’s world.”

“We want our young people to listen to contemporary indigenous music, and to see more focus on something really traditional like the koauau,” he said. After Star Quest Hori and Hemi wanted to release Buzz Off but felt the time wasn’t right. With their S7OOO prizemoney they bought some band gear and returned home to Mangataipa Hokianga and their band ‘Utu’. They changed their name from Utu to Ahurangi, which means “Beyond the

heavens.” They felt the word utu was far too literal, and travelling in tribal areas it could be taken the wrong way. “Ahurangi’s music is about life, unity in Maori people amongst Maori people,” said Hemi Rurawhe. “Even though we're getting back at the system through our music we’re focusing on life’s positive side. We can look at the negative and positive things, but we’re focussing on the positive nature of all things.”

1984 was a busy year for Hori and Hemi. It was also the last time the ‘masses’ saw them performing on Television Two’s Hui Pacific. At present they've got enough material for two albums. Now it's just a matter of co-ordination and support before we hear their music on our stereo systems. Although they have received guidance and support from experienced recording musicians like Dalvanuis Prime, and the Creative School of Music's. Taura Eruera, Hori and Hemi are a little diffident about the music industry.

“We're not into the exploitive side of the music business." said flemi.

Like Dun Mihaka with his book ‘Whakapohane’ they intend to promote their record around the country themselves. But before either Hori and Hemi or Ahurangi record any music for release, their most important priorities have to be in order. “For us to succeed or follow through musically it’s really important that our land, kids and gardens are 0.K,” said Hori. The Mangataipa Trust will get 35% of anything made from their record. “The national tour was a good experience for us, it was the first time we had played in town halls,” said Hori. Two invitations to play overseas went to the four winds. They were invited to play at the Republic of Vanuatu’s Independence celebrations in 1983, which didn't come through. An invitation to the 4th Pacific Festival of Arts in New Caledonia was cancelled only days before the New Zealand contingent was to leave the country.

“We're happy to be working at home, said Hori. There's a lot of awareness and consciousness raising work to be done here.” Hori and Hemi are co-ordinating this years Hui Waiata to be held at Mangataipa in November. They will be sharing their significant talent and energy with one of Maori peoples greatest assets Te Rangatahi. “Everything we've done musically has been an important part of our development” said Hori Hapimona. Oh, by the way Buzz Off will feature on their planned album.