LEAO – LALELEI: 13th Floor Releases New Song Today
LEAO is a Samoan musical group comprised of guitarist/vocalist David Feauai-Afaese, bassist Navakatoa Tekela-Pule, steel guitarist Levi Gemmell, and drummer Rāhana Tito-Taylor. Their music is a fusion of non-traditional tonalities with a fa’asamoa spirit, resulting in a genre that has been described as ‘niu wave’ and ‘Pacific neo-psychedelia.’ LEAO has shared the stage with renowned artists like Neil Finn and Tinariwen, won multiple radio awards in New Zealand, and even performed live on NTS. Their music has also been featured in films like Taika Waititi’s ‘Next Goal Wins’ and Miki Magasiva’s ‘Tinā’.
Their latest single, LALELEI, is a heartfelt dedication to family and homeland, encapsulating themes of love, yearning, and a deep connection to the Fa’asamoa. This track showcases LEAO’s unique blend of classic Samoan garage sounds with modern production techniques. According to David, the band’s primary goal with LALELEI was to pay homage to the classic Samoan pop songs of the late 70s and 80s, drawing inspiration from American genres like soft rock, funk, soul, and R&B. The lyrics of LALELEI serve as a tribute to Samoa and the rich musical heritage of the country.
LEAO’s love for Pacific music shines through in LALELEI, highlighting their commitment to preserving and evolving the sound of the region. As a member of the Samoan diaspora, David’s perspective on Samoa is shaped by his unique experiences and interactions. Through projects like LEAO, he aims to spark meaningful conversations about Samoan identity and culture, embracing diversity and inclusivity. LALELEI serves as a testament to their cultural pride and artistic vision.
As LEAO prepares to showcase their music in the UK and Europe at events like The Great Escape Festival and tours with Tinariwen, David reflects on the band’s journey and growth. Each release from LEAO adds to the rich tapestry of Samoan music, showcasing their evolution as artists and their dedication to their craft. LALELEI marks a significant milestone for the group, symbolizing their progress and creativity in the music industry.
Known for their captivating live performances and genre-defying sound, LEAO continues to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. With their upcoming album, The Samoa Tapes, on the horizon, the band is poised to make a lasting impact on the contemporary Pacific music scene. As they embark on their UK/EU tour, LEAO is set to captivate audiences with their infectious energy and authentic cultural storytelling.