Album Review: Manawa Wera

Ria Hall’s new collection of songs Manawa Wera is everything anyone could want from a new release.

Hall is without doubt one of Aotearoa’s finest female vocalists and her material is thought-provoking and moving without ever being strident or preachy.

Manawa Wera is immaculately produced by Laughton Kora.

It’s crisp, thoughtful and beautifully balanced in its delivery with star turns from an amazing collection of supporting musicians including Ara Adams-Tamatea (L.A.B.), Wiremu Barriball (Katchafire) and Zane Graham (Sons of Zion, The Wailers). Gorgeous guest horns are arranged and led by Warren Maxwell (TrinityRoots, Little Bushman) and backing vocals are provided by co-writer Laughton Kora, Troy Kingi and Rob Ruha. The sonic sum total of all that talent is as delicious as you might expect.

Hall’s voice is utterly clear and resonant throughout. The opening track History firmly roots the listener in their connection to the natural world and exhorts them to know their history through their connection to the earth and a deep sense of belonging. “My feet are fashioned from the earth, crafted from mud and stone and dirt. We wear our stories on our skin. I swear it’s where we must begin.”

The bass is deliciously prominent on the second track Cause and Effect. The second single from the album, Owner follows with a powerful message about how ownership is immaterial and that what really matters is our qualities, these being what we will solely be judged on in the end.

I particularly loved Chant. From its resonant humming in harmony opening to the end it fully supports Hall’s powerful and soaring vocal. Walk was also wonderful – a true foot tapper as its name might suggest.

Hall’s album is also graced with the beautiful artwork of Robyn Kahukiwa and this is a fitting and powerful visual representation of the themes that Manawa Wera explores; it’s elemental, rooted in female power, and with a distinct and independent point of view.

This is a marvellous recording. Revel in it and support this wonderful, talented artist.