Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Neketini meets Fela


 Amplifier just posted this great Kiwi LP cover (above) on Twitter, saying "They really don't make album artwork like this any more. And probably for a reason."

It reminded me of this great Kiwi LP I've got by Nick Nicholson and the Neketini Brass (1968, HMV), essentially a local take on the classic Herb Alpert and Tijuana Brass sound, covering Maori tunes like Pokarekare Ana and E Hine E. It's a great record. And somehow this LP cover below ended up being recycled for a late 60s Fela Kuti compilation LP. Seriously.

ADDED: Hat tip to Dylan C for reminding me of this 2005 mashup that used the same cover art.









ADDED Stinky Jim reminded me in the comments that there are two versions of the Neketini Brass cover art - Thanks Jim! Here's the other one...



Added: I digitised a tune or two off my copy of Neketini Brass, here's their take on Pokarekare ana...



5 comments:

Unknown said...

Who knew?!

Stinky Jim said...

spot on as ever Peter, but have you seen the alternative cover for this album which plays on the Maori Herb Alpert angle in a pretty tacky but awesome way? Without wanting to air my anal-ity too much, I have both versions, and since I'm grounded for a few days I might see if I can dig it out, scan and ping it to you. (also have sampled from this album some years ago but I'm not going to ruin the fun and say where)

Peter McLennan said...

Thanks Jim, I've got both versions too! Will add a pic I found online now.

KMcK said...

My Dad is Bruce McKendry, we grew up listening to this music and watching him play his Trumpet both with the Neketini Brass and later, as part of the Bob Bradford Big Band. He is now nearly 80 and no longer plays. Loved finding this blog and the photos. I have one of his albums, he says he has more stored in his garage. Thanks!

Paipo said...

I have both versions of the album pictured here and the 1969 Robbins EP...all found at garage sales and op-shops. I come across the orange cover regularly - it must have been a big seller back in the day. I've heard there's also a much rarer blue version of the orange LP cover. The playing and arrangements are just stellar. Definitely my favourite kiwi band of this era!