Review - Dominion Post.
December 9, 2005
UPPER HUTT POSSE
Legacy
(Kia Kaha / Jayrem)
NEW ZEALAND’S most influential hip-hop act return with a double-album boasting 21 tracks. Most of the first disc features English-language lyrics; disc two is entirely in Te Reo, including Ko Te Tino Aroha Nui, which you may recognise in its original form (The Greatest Love Of All). At the head and heart of Upper Hutt Posse is Dean Hapeta (aka D-Word/Te Kupu). I feel proud listening to Legacy. This is Aotearoa hip-hop. Where the likes of P-Money, Savage, Dei Hamo and Scribe arrive at their sound by mentioning New Zealand names and places within American-derived beats and even using some international faces to gain acclaim, Hapeta and crew are using the genre to suit their own purpose. Upper Hutt Posse have created their own sound. I don’t always agree with the lyrical content and, of course, I don’t understand every word - but there are some great grooves here (the reggae roots of the band are prominent). And Emma Paki’s beautiful voice blends well with the sound of this highly talented crew. The scope of this project is worthy of praise in itself - and the bands longevity is testament to the pioneering vision of Hapeta.
****
Simon Sweetman