Anna Makirere "Tiare Avatea"

via Little Axe Records

The lone recordings of teenaged vocalist Anna Makirere of Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Sung in close harmony in Māori Kuki Airan, Tiare Avatea pairs Makirere’s casual yet masterful vocalizations with virtuoso accompanists. Somewhere between slack-key and flat-picked, the brilliant guitar work is seasoned tastefully with sunburned effects. Translating literally to “Afternoon Flower,” this radiant collection of originals and traditionals was issued regionally on cassette in 1981. It remains a unique look into Cook Islands sound and style.