The local band, Naseda, formed in 2013, has gained popularity over the past few years.

Lead singer Inoke Baselala said the six-member group came together at a recording studio in Kinoya three years ago and later realised they were related.

One of their popular songs is the iTaukei song “Noqu Daulomani” released last year, which was inspired by the true story about a couple trying to win back their love.

It was their first album and it received positive feedback from music lovers around the country and overseas.

Band members include Mr Baselala, Viliame Cama, Taniela Kubunicaucau, Niko Cokaisavu, Savenaca Nukucebuya and Timoci Tamanitokula.

“When we first started, all of us had no jobs and we use to walk to the Loganiu studio to do recordings in Kinoya,” Mr Baselala said.

He said it took a lot of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice to be consistent with the music.

The band members write their own songs and also perform classical English songs. All the members play the guitar. The band members are from Lomaiviti, Moturiki, and Kadavu.

Mr Baselala has also collaborated with local jazz singer Sassy. The band performed at the Uprising festival last year, and also gets invitations to play at resorts, weddings and birthdays.

They’ve also collaborated with local hip hop artist Sammy G in some of their video productions.

“We really hadn’t performed for a very big crowd before so that was quite a challenge, but we’ve gotten used to it now,” he said.

They are currently working on their second album which will be released later this year.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

Feedback: mere.satakala@fijisun.com.fj