On February 22, Christchurch-born Ariana Tikao was one of the few trusted to perform for the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial event at Hagley Park. Her performance of Whakaaria Mai was stirring – and the tracks on her third solo album also reflect on a city rebuilding itself. Featuring Te Reo, English and bilingual tracks, Ariana brings a strength to her gentle folk songs that are at times almost haunting. This is an album with tremendous variation – Ta Da is a fun ditty, while Te Haeta and Te Heke are powerful ballads.
