13 Aug 2019

VIDEO PREMIERE: ‘Legend’ by Polynesian metal band Shepherd’s Reign

From RNZ Music, 10:00 am on 13 August 2019

RNZ Music is proud to be the first to share the new video from South Auckland metal band Shepherd’s Reign. ‘Legend’ is a homage to fathers and role models, with a video featuring boxer David Tua.

The music of Shepherd’s Reign combines traditional Polynesian instruments such as the Sāmoan pātē, with classic metal guitar sounds, vocals and a double kick pedal.

"They're a proud Polynesian metal band from South Auckland," the band’s spokesperson Huia Hamon told Stuff in 2018, "They want to infuse their culture into their music. They're just really proud of that aspect, and it gives them a point of difference as far as the metal community goes.”

The group’s cultural roots include Sāmoan, Māori, Asian and European.

The South Auckland metal band released their first record – which includes the original version of ‘Legend’ – in 2018.

They've since re-worked the song to include traditional Polynesian drumming, using the pātē.

The video for ‘Legend’ stars boxer David Tua ONZM, who the band sees as an important role model for New Zealanders, especially those from South Auckland.

“He’s well respected and still has one of the biggest left hooks in boxing. He was the obvious choice to approach for the video,” the band says.

The video – partly shot in David Tua’s gym, is shot and directed by Kwasnik Pictures, who’ve previously worked with Alien Weaponry, Rei and Team Dynamite.

Shepherds Reign are:

  • Filivaa James (vocals, keys) 
  • Oliver Leupolu (guitar, production)
  • Gideon Voon (guitars)
  • Shaymen Rameka (drums) 

Listen to Shepherd’s Reign’s album on Spotify.

Polynesian metal band Shepherd's Reign

Polynesian metal band Shepherd's Reign Photo: Supplied

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