Hailing from the mighty Waikato, Aotearoa, IA blend taonga pūoro with a modern twist in their music.
Their latest release, “Kura Huna”, goes straight back to the soulful collective’s roots, coming alive with traditional instruments like the tumu (wooden sticks), putorino (wooden flute), and punga ihu (nose flute).
“Knowledge is powerful but not as powerful as how you use it, which is when knowledge turns into wisdom,” says frontman Reti Hedley about the song’s theme.
“Kura Huna” is IA’s first release of the year, following their impressive 2023 EP The Art Of, which they broke down for Rolling Stone AU/NZ last year.
Besides dropping this new track, IA are getting ready for their first international tour in August. After their showcase at the International Indigenous Music Summit in Toronto in 2023, the band got picked to play at three big events in Canada: Innu Nikamu Festival on August 4th, Asinabka Festival: August 6th – Ottawa, and the International First Peoples Festival on August 8th.
IA’s first international tour represents a significant milestone for the band, bringing their fusion of traditional and contemporary Māori music to a global audience.
To celebrate the release of “Kura Huna”, Hedley shared a playlist of his favourite te reo Māori waiata, the ones that have meant the most to him and inspired IA’s music.
IA’s “Kura Huna” is out now.
Jordyn with a Why – “Hey Love” (ft. MOHI)
I love Jordyn and this waiata, especially the melody. It was on repeat for weeks.
Hirini Melbourne – “Rongomai”
This is my late mother’s favourite waiata, and she was the person who taught me everything I know about taonga pūoro.
Rob Ruha – “Taera”
One of the most beautiful use of modern te reo Māori alongside ancient te reo Māori I have heard lately.
Toni Huata – “Ko Wai Ka Hua”
I use to love jamming this song with my uncles.
MOHI – “Me Pēhea Rā”
I am a huge fan of MOHI and this waiata ticks all the modern musical boxes.
St Josephs Maori Girls College – “Te Hokinga Mai”
Memories of many nights listening to my father sing this song with the guitar.
Hinewehi Mohi – “Hineraukatauri”
This waiata was the first song I performed live on guitar with my mother playing alongside me on taonga pūoro.
