Geneva AM’s New Album Pikipiki Invites Global Dance and Joy

Geneva AM has released her latest album, Pikipiki, a vibrant collection that invites listeners to dance and celebrate. The album, which translates to “to climb,” features uplifting melodies and a mix of electronic rhythms designed to unify and inspire. Geneva Alexander-Marsters, who is of Ngāti Ruapani and Ngāti Kahungunu descent, aims to harness the power of dance music to spark positivity in challenging times.

The album opens with a warm welcome as Geneva AM begins with the words “Nau mai, haere mai,” inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the experience. The soundscape is rich, combining gentle synths with a steady kick drum that sets the tone for a joyous journey. While Pikipiki is primarily about feel-good vibes, it also delves into complex emotions, reflected in lyrics that evoke both nostalgia and acceptance.

Exploring Themes of Connection and Heritage

One notable track, “Urban Planning,” showcases her lyrical depth. The song juxtaposes gentle chimes with poignant reflections on the past, as Geneva AM sings, “The motorway was an awa [river]/ In the museum they put my waka/ I feel at home in the city/ I got my Tipuna [ancestors] with me.” These lyrics reveal a thoughtful exploration of heritage and identity, bringing a human touch to the electronic sound.

Geneva AM, previously the frontwoman of SoccerPractise, has moved towards a more streamlined musical style with Pikipiki. The tracks are less focused on intricate beats, allowing different musical elements to interact naturally. For example, “Meet Again” features a conversational tone, as she sings about a “dancefloor in heaven… up in the clouds,” and directly engages the listener by breaking into her speaking voice, which adds a humorous touch.

Another standout moment occurs in the track “Tutira Mai Ngā Iwi,” where Geneva AM encourages audience participation. She prompts listeners to join in with a call-and-response, further enhancing the communal spirit of the album. The transition from an acapella introduction to an upbeat dance track illustrates her ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds.

Diverse Collaborations and Musical Styles

showcases Geneva AM’s versatility through collaborations with various artists. The album features a neo-classical piece titled “Toitū Te Tiriti,” performed alongside the Ngā Whetu Ensemble, highlighting her commitment to cultural representation. The dynamic nature of the album continues with a garage rock rendition of the classic song “Pokarekare Ana,” featuring artists Ruby Walsh, Fiona Campbell, and Lani Purkis, which reinvents a familiar tune with fresh harmonies.

The latter half of the album leans into electronic genres, including drum and bass and house music. The track “Tipuna Rākau,” meaning “ancestor tree,” emphasizes the connection to one’s roots, described by Geneva AM on her Substack as being “the seeds of our ancestors.” This theme resonates throughout the album, encouraging listeners to reflect on their heritage while enjoying the music.

The album concludes with the title track, “Pikipiki,” featuring contributions from Samara Alofa, Hawkins, Rewi McLay, and Mara TK. Their harmonious vocals blend beautifully, embodying the album’s theme of rising together, much like its title suggests.

As Geneva AM continues to carve out her unique space in the music world, Pikipiki stands as a testament to her artistic vision. With its infectious energy and profound messages, the album promises to engage a diverse audience, encouraging them to dance, sing, and connect.

Listeners can catch a special feature of Geneva AM’s music on Music 101 on August 16, 2023, where Tony Stamp will showcase more tracks from this captivating album.