Punialava’a group to launch new album in Apia

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 19 AUGUST 2022: The legendary Samoan group Punialava’a, led by Reverend Lale Peteru will launch a new album called “Tagi Le Atunu’u Pele” during a live concert on 03 September in Apia.

The album will feature a special song by Lale called “Pe a Luluina Papa o Faavae “ written specifically for Samoa’s 60^th  independence anniversary.

This was confirmed by Lale’s wife, Vini Peteru from Auckland during a zoom conference yesterday that announced the groups’ performance in a corporate concert in collaboration with the Lava Hotel and Samoa Tourism.

The original Punialava’a was founded in 1968 with Lale as their leader and songwriter and is now a family based group headed by Reverend Lale and wife Vini and their children.

Now based in Auckland, New Zealand, Vini said to perform in Apia for the 60^th independence celebrations is something very special.

“Sixty years is a long journey and being here to celebrate such an auspicious occasion is a great opportunity to share feelings and thoughts about the celebration through music,” said Vini Peteru.. “It is a long journey for Samoa and for us to return to where it all started, to celebrate and share a song for our beloved Samoa.“

She expressed her family’s gratitude to the Samoa Tourism Authority and the Lava Hotel for sponsoring the concert.

She also took the opportunity to challenge STA Chief Executive Officer, Pativaine Tevita and Marketing Manager Seiuli Dwayne Bentley to bring Samoan people abroad over to celebrate Samoa’s history.

“Samoa’s history, language and culture are all embedded in music and it’s a legacy for generations to come,” said Vini.

Lava Hotel Manager Pepe Christian Fruean said the Punialava’a corporate concert will set the tone for Samoa’s 60^th independence celebration, bringing home Samoa’s sons and daughters as well as visitors and friends to celebrate Our Beautiful Samoa which is the theme for this year’s Teuila Festival.

The corporate table is $2000 for 8 people and the funds raised will assist with the cost of bringing the group over.

Asked if there would be a public concert to cater for the people who cannot afford a corporate table, Pepe said they will know as the program progress.

“Punialava’a is well known across Samoa and this concert will bring together professional and emerging musicians and provide an opportunity to showcase local talent during the countries celebration,” said Pepe.

The group was recognized for their contribution to Samoan and Pacific music in the 2018 Pacific Music Awards.