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SOPHOMORE SINGLE

MĀREIKURA

Cover design + accompanying artwork
by Mardo El-Noor

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NGĀ WHAKAMĀRAMA


Māreikura
in Māori literally refers to the supreme Goddesses of the Twelfth Heaven.

As young men who have all been raised by strong women, we, MMQ, wrote this waiata to acknowledge women as the pillars that provide the foundation of our world.

Women are the doorway to life, the heartbeat of Māori culture and the first voice heard on the Marae.

Our song reflects these aspects. It is strong and warm, and ranges musically from traditional chant and haka to a contemporary rhythmic guitar with melodic vocal flow.

It was also important to us to have a female voice on this track. We have the pleasure of introducing you to an incredible emerging talent – Awhimai Fraser, whose vocal finesse elevates this song to another stratosphere.

Māreikura is the perfect way for us to celebrate Matariki.

Arohanui,
MMQ x
James, Maaka, Matariki, Francis & Matu

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NGĀ WHAKAMĀRAMA

Shine is a song that celebrates children.

It is a father’s message to his child, encouraging her to dream big and pursue any path her heart desires.

This song is for “all the kids in the world” and reminds them that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to, so long as they have the support and love of their parents and wider family.

Shine has a strong, comfortable feel that is clear and joyful which we believe represents us truthfully.

It feels right that this song should be our first voice in the world.

Arohanui,
MMQ x
James, Maaka, Matariki, Francis & Matu

James Tito

Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāpuhi, Kuki Airani

James trained at UCOL (Advanced Certificate in Performing Arts) and Toi Whakaari. He has acted in theatre productions including Awhi Tapu, Tu, The Māori Troilus and Cressida and Sydney Bridge Upside Down and on screen including Awhi Tapu, When We Go To War and The Kick. He was nominated as Most Promising Male Newcomer at the 2011 Chapman Tripp Awards. James had the inspiration to establish the Modern Māori Quartet and revive the showbands of yesteryears because of the talented people he has worked with.

 Makka-profile Matariki-profile Francis-profile

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Maaka

Maaka Pohatu

Ngai Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

A graduate of Toi Whakaari, Maaka has performed in numerous productions such as the critically acclaimed Strange Resting Places and The Māori Troilus and Cressida, which featured at the prestigious Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. He made his film debut in the feature Two Little Boys. Maaka is also a professional musician and proud member of the Modern Māori Quartet.

 Makka-profile Matariki-profile Francis-profile

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Matariki

Matariki Whatarau

Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tamaterā

Since graduating from Toi Whakaari, Matariki has appeared in various theatre productions including Awhi Tapu, Tu and Paper Sky. His screen credits include The Almighty Johnsons, Go Girls and The Pā Boys. Matariki has always loved playing music, singing and acting so being a part of the Modern Māori Quartet is his dream job.

 Makka-profile Matariki-profile Francis-profile

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Francis

Francis Kora

Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Pūkeko

Francis is a new member to the Modern Māori Quartet. He is also a graduate of Toi Whakaari. For the last decade, Francis has been a musician with (and now the frontman of) iconic NZ band KORA. He had his debut film role in The Pā Boys and was a presenter on Māori Television’s Code. Francis has a passion for telling Aotearoa’s stories through film and theatre.

 Makka-profile Matariki-profile Francis-profile

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