RNZ Music was lucky enough to record a very special live session with Auckland musician Lou’ana. Backed by her incredible live band, she performed tracks from her new album Moonlight Madness.
Three-time Pacific Music Award finalist Lou’ana released her debut album on October 30. Moonlight Madness is an 11-track collection of funk, soul and jazz, with a Pacific twist on the title track.
- Click here to stream or purchase Moonlight Madness
- Catch Lou'ana live at her album release show in Auckland on November 26
“‘Moonlight Madness’ is an earthy brew, infused with my Samoan heritage,” Lou’ana says, “We used the pate (log drum) on the track, included a Samoan proverb that speaks of the synergy between the physical and spiritual realms, and I wrote a Samoan chant with my Aunty which calls upon the spirit of the moon goddess!
“This song was written for dancing, losing yourself in the hypnotic beat. I wanted to find the sweet spot between voodoo blues and Pacific elements and after starting this song over a few times, I think we found it!”
While laying the groundwork for her debut album, Lou’ana has performed around the motu as a solo artist, and as part of funk band Hipstamatics.
Moonlight Madness is the culmination of two and a half years’ meticulous attention to detail and dedication from Lou’ana and producer Nathan Judd.
“It was basically myself and Nate in the studio for two and a half years as we scheduled time around my duties as a working musician,” Lou’ana says, “I’d bring in songs I’d written during the week, we’d workshop and arrange the music, and then bring in my band and other session musicians for the recording, to add their own flair.”
Lou’ana and Nate share a passion for soul and funk music of the 60’s and 70’s, as well as a similar work ethic: “We never skimp on the finer details.”
Alongside Lou’ana’s smoky powerhouse vocals, Moonlight Madness is underpinned by lush instrumentation courtesy of Lou’ana’s live band and a selection of Auckland’s finest session musicians.
