It was a surprisingly auspicious career for a group that began as the “Tropical Penguins” (for a talent quest at their school, Western Springs College). Fortunately they renamed themselves Nesian Mystik before entering the Smokefree Rockquest in 2000, where they won the “stage image award” award (Evermore won the overall prize). At this stage, the group comprised three singer-rappers – Te Awanui Reeder (Awa), Donald McNulty (Tha Kid Oldwun), Junior Rikiau (Junz) – backed by guitarist David Atai (Dmon Finguz) and turntablist/DJ Heath Manukau (Notiq).
Nesian Mystik Making Music from NZ On Screen
Te Awanui Reeder - vocals
Feleti Strickson-Pua - raps
Donald McNulty - raps
Junior Rikiau - raps, drums, ukelele
David Atai - guitar, vocals
Heath Manukau - turntables
Awa wrote the basis of a hit for Dane Rumble, 'Cruel', which was certified gold in 2009.
Nesian Mystik won a raft of music awards through their career, including NZ Music Awards wins for Best Pacific Album, Best Urban Album, and People's Choice (plus four wins at the Pacific Music Awards, including best song for 'Nesian 101' and four wins at the Waiata Māori Music Awards).
Arch Dynasty
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