In 2017, Marcus Chatenay, better known as Marcus Gad, met Ounine Pawoap, the chief of the Pombei tribe in New Caledonia and the leader of the band A7JK, which was highly popular at the time. Their encounter resulted in the recording of "Kanaké," a landmark track that not only gained massive popularity across the island but also reached international audiences. This song became an anthem, introducing Kaneka music to the world for the first time. Now, these two artists are back with an even more ambitious project.
A Debut Album Rooted in Kanak Traditions
For his debut album, Ounine Pawoap dives deep into the Kanak cultural roots of New Caledonia. This album aims to showcase the traditions and people of the Pacific, often overlooked on the global stage. With his established reputation in the reggae world, Marcus Gad sought to accompany Ounine Pawoap on this journey. He brings his artistic vision while ensuring the album was produced in a professional setting, something rarely accessible in New Caledonia. The project is supported by Take It Easy Agency, Marcus Gad's management agency, ensuring top-quality production.
Kaneka: A Blend of Kanak Tradition and Reggae
Kaneka, a genre born from the Kanak people, is to New Caledonia what seggae is to Mauritius. Inspired by the rhythms of Jamaican reggae, Kaneka fuses traditional Kanak chants and rhythms with reggae beats. Sung in French and Cémuhi, a vernacular Kanak language spoken in the Paîci region and northern parts of the island, Ounine Pawoap's debut album immerses listeners in the rich traditions of the Pacific.
In August 2023, Ounine Pawoap traveled to France to work with The Tribe, Marcus Gad’s backing band, and recorded at Cryogène Studio in Bègles, near Bordeaux. After performing several shows in mainland France, he returned to New Caledonia with Marcus Gad to capture authentic traditional sounds, including percussion, the bwanjep (a bark beater), tempered bamboo instruments, and fern leaves. These elements were recorded in the ceremonial house of the Pombei tribe, while in Montreuil, France, sound engineer Clément Thouard, aka Tamal, who frequently collaborates with Marcus Gad, recorded the brass sections at La Kapsule Studio.
A Unique Tour with Marcus Gad
In fall 2024, Ounine Pawoap will join Marcus Gad as the opening act for his tour. The 15-date series will be highlighted by a special performance at Cabaret Sauvage in Paris on October 18. This will be a rare opportunity to discover this Caledonian artist and experience the unique blend of Pacific rhythms and reggae.
An Album Carrying a Message of Unity
Amid the current political and social tensions in New Caledonia, this album serves as a breath of fresh air. It is a living testimony of cultural co-creation and the spirit of togetherness, inviting listeners to explore the rich traditions of the Kanak people while celebrating musical diversity.
Catch Ounine Pawoap on stage with Marcus Gad at the following dates:
26/10: Sauveterre de Rouergue (12) - Root’s Ergue Festival
31/10: Mâcon (71) - La Cave à Musique
02/11: Novéant-sur-Moselle (57) - Complexe Sportif
07/11: Toulouse (31) - Le Metronum
08/11: Tours (37) - Bateau Ivre
10/11: Brest (29) - Le Vauban
16/11: Biarritz (64) - L’Atabal
21/11: Saint-Jean-de-Védas (34) - Victoire 2
22/11: Marseille (13) - Le Molotov
23/11: Maubec (84) - La Gare du Coustellet
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind tour that promises to resonate with Kanak culture and reggae vibes across France!
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