A group of cousins transformed a gathering around a bowl of yaqona into something extraordinary: a musical journey that led to the formation of their own band. This creative endeavor was ignited with the help of their uncle, Oliver McCaig, who introduced them to Olsen J Sefo, the frontman of Sweet Sensations, who was impressed by their talent.
The band, now called Chapter 5 (C5), is named in honor of their lineage as fifth-generation musicians from Wallis & Futuna. Since their inception, they have been making waves in Fiji’s music scene, performing regularly at Mana Coffee in Suva, where they have built a loyal following.
Nicholas Smith, the band’s drummer and co-manager, shared that the journey began a year ago with just three cousins: himself, lead guitarist Michael Yalani, and rhythm guitarist Niko Yalani. They were later joined by bassist Filipe Yalani and two more cousins, Maya and Niu Smith. The addition of the two girls has enriched their sound, allowing them to cover popular songs and continue evolving musically.
Currently, the band practices every Wednesday evening at Mana Coffee, which they credit for providing them with valuable performance opportunities. Their musical style is diverse but heavily rooted in reggae, adapting to the preferences of their audience.
Chapter 5 is also eagerly preparing to perform at the 2024 Bounty Reggae Christmas Festival on December 21, where they promise to deliver lively reggae covers alongside an engaging stage presence. They draw inspiration from local artists like Olsen J Sefo and Miles Manulevu, as well as familial influences, including Nicholas’s father and brother.
Despite the pressure that comes with performing, Nicholas embraces the challenges as opportunities for growth. He warmly invites the community to support them at the festival, as they move forward as a promising new act in the Fijian music landscape.
This story showcases not only the power of familial bonds but also the vibrant cultural roots of Fiji, offering hope for the future of local music through collaboration and dedication. It emphasizes the importance of community support for emerging artists and the possibility of building a musical legacy.
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