The Hui-a project came about when Taonga Puoro musician, Jerome Kavanagh had a conversation with producer Ben Mullon. The 2 artists both of Maori descent had a shared ambition to work with their traditional instruments and vocal styles. They decided to name the project after the extinct Huia bird and also the Maori language for 'The Gathering of'. What began as an exploration into the past quickly turned into an examination of the future. Working together under the band name Hui-a they have developed a great love of the Taonga Puoro and a respect of the values these magical instruments carry. It's this understanding that has provided the catalyst for fusing the modern world of production with the Taonga. The work has included the recording of instruments kept at The British Museum and other U.K collections and Hui-a have recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios for Hollywood composer; Christopher Tin. Working from a London base Hui-a have drawn on the sounds of the U.K and collaborate with local artists to develop a new musical identity.
1) Got to Live
2) Ki Mua Ki Part II
3) Tika Tonu
4) Nga Hau E Wha
5) Got to Live Remix
6) Ki Mua Ki Remix
7) Hutia Te Rito