Wednesday, 01 September 2010
AMONG the myriad of reggae bands and artists now active in New Zealand most do not boast a single female member, let alone a mother-daughters combination.
In fact, Hamilton-based band NRG Rising are likely to be among very few groups worldwide boasting such a lineup – meaning Eastern Bay reggae fans could be in for a unique treat on Saturday night.
According to their publicity statement, NRG Rising’s “upbeat, fun and friendly onstage persona is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and considering the many possibilities in life,” which bodes well for punters attending the gig at Whakatane’s The Comm.
NRG Rising are a six-piece reggae/r&b band formed in April, 2009. Its members include Benita Tahuri, Anahera-Pono Whakatope and Harete Whariki-Whakatope (all of Ngai Tuhoe/Ngati Kahungunu descent and the band’s mother/daughters combination) as vocalists.
The recent release of their debut single Summertime Party, which is available for download on iTunes and the band’s hard-working ethic and professional approach has helped raise their profile and they are currently working on their debut album.
The group have a strong Eastern Bay connection, with links to Ruatahuna and Maungapohatu through their grandfather and great grandfather, Ngahau Tahuri,
Benita Tahuri (aka Sis B) also has strong connections to the team at Te Whare Pu Wananga o Anamata, where she was employed earlier this year for a short time.
Joining NRG Rising at the venue formerly known as The Commercial Hotel are two other up-and-coming roots bands.
Napier group Greenhouse open the gig at 8.30pm and will be followed by Gisborne’s Ethnic Roots at 9.30pm, before NRG Rising grace the stage at 10.30pm.