Mapura Music - Mapura Music LP (Horn of Plenty)

Māpura Music is an inspiring initiative that brings together individuals living with disabilities to engage in spontaneous music-making in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). Guided by Stefan Neville, a Akti Records favorite & prominent figure in the New Zealand underground music scene, this program encapsulates a DIY spirit that merges catchy melodies with adventurous experimentation. With Neville’s extensive background, the project thrives on collaboration, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish without constraints.

The Māpura Music features a series of improvised jams that, on the surface, might appear to lean towards the experimental. Yet, as each track unfolds, listeners will uncover a rich tapestry of playful melodies and unexpected structures. This album defies simple classification; it is not just avant-garde noise or sound collage, nor does it strictly adhere to familiar genres like folk or rock. Instead, it occupies a unique space that celebrates musical freedom.

This collection draws inspiration from similar projects that champion disability and inclusivity, such as Reynols, as well as the experimental sounds of groups like London’s Triple Negative and Basil Kirchin’s intricate compositions. However, what distinguishes Māpura Music is the genuine agency given to its participants. They are not merely subjects in the creative process; they are the driving force behind the music, bringing their own voices and experiences to the forefront.

The album features a consistent lineup of contributors - including Jemima Aherne, Hugh Bawden-Hindle, Trevor Bull, Tom Cathro, Allyson Hamblett, Colin Harris, Dave Kane, Cheyenne Minhinnick, Thais Nesbitt, Sushannah Shaw, Yung Sung Chen, and Kevin Tan - who collectively present a distinctive sound. Their work is infused with a delightful sense of humor, evident in the quirky arrangements and imaginative track titles like "Here When You Don’t Need Me."

Musically, the Māpura Music spans a broad spectrum of sounds. It intertwines heavy, chaotic textures with serene, contemplative moments, creating an engaging listening experience. The album showcases a variety of styles, from meditative vocalizations and explorative slide guitar to lush, dreamlike synthesizer passages. In Neville's words, “every feeling that is possible is released into the air,” highlighting the album's commitment to raw emotional expression.

Ultimately, the Māpura Music is more than just a collection of music; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty of collective creativity. It invites listeners to reconsider their perceptions of music and embrace the diverse voices that emerge when individuals come together. This album serves as a powerful reminder that creativity knows no boundaries, and through shared expression, we can all find our unique place in the musical landscape.