Geneva AM’s New Album Pikipiki Inspires Joy and Connection

Geneva AM has released a vibrant new album titled Pikipiki, which invites listeners to dance and sing along, regardless of their familiarity with the te reo Māori language. The album opens with a warm welcome, as Geneva speaks, “Nau mai, haere mai,” setting the tone for an uplifting musical journey. With a blend of engaging synths and a steady beat, Pikipiki embodies its title, which translates to “to climb,” and reflects Geneva’s mission to create a sense of unity and positivity through dance music.

In a recent interview with Under the Radar, Geneva Alexander-Marsters, who identifies with the Ngāti Ruapani and Ngāti Kahungunu tribes, expressed her belief that “now more than ever we need to unify and believe in our collective power to make positive change.” While the album features many feel-good tracks, it also delves into more complex themes. For instance, in the track “Urban Planning,” Geneva juxtaposes gentle melodies with poignant lyrics, reflecting on personal and cultural histories. She sings, “The motorway was an awa [river]/ In the museum they put my waka/ I feel at home in the city/ I got my Tipuna [ancestors] with me,” articulating a blend of nostalgia and acceptance.

Geneva, formerly the frontwoman of the band SoccerPractise, adopts a different approach in Pikipiki, opting for more stripped-down rhythms. The tracks eschew strict timing, allowing for a human touch that enhances the listening experience. In the track “Meet Again,” she explores deeper vocal expressions as she muses about a “dancefloor in heaven… up in the clouds.” This playful engagement with the listener adds a layer of intimacy, as Geneva directly addresses her audience, emphasizing the joy of music.

The album features interactive elements as well, with Geneva encouraging listeners to participate. In the track “Tutira Mai Ngā Iwi,” she asks her audience to join in with a call-and-response, enhancing the communal vibe that permeates her work. The song transitions from an a cappella introduction to an energetic dance rhythm, showcasing her versatility and the emotional depth of her performance.

Two standout tracks offer distinct musical experiences. “Toitū Te Tiriti” features a collaboration with the Ngā Whetu Ensemble, presenting a rousing neo-classical piece that contrasts sharply with a garage rock rendition of the classic “Pokarekare Ana,” supported by artists like Ruby Walsh and Fiona Campbell. These collaborations highlight Geneva’s ability to blend genres and traditions, breathing new life into familiar sounds.

The latter half of the album maintains an electronic focus, exploring styles such as drum and bass and house music. In “Tipuna Rākau,” which translates to “ancestor tree,” Geneva elaborates on her mission to represent the seeds of her ancestors. This track features some of her most uplifting melodies, accompanied by a visually engaging video that further emphasizes her artistic vision.

The album concludes with the title track, “Pikipiki,” where vocal contributions from Samara Alofa, Hawkins, Rewi McLay, and Mara TK create a harmonious crescendo. Their voices intertwine, climbing together in a celebration of connection and aspiration, perfectly mirroring the album’s intention.

Geneva AM’s Pikipiki is not just an album; it is an invitation to celebrate life, heritage, and togetherness through music. Listeners can experience more of her work on Music 101 on August 16, 2023.