A GROUP of cousins got together around a basin of yaqona to jam until the early hours of the morning and do what they love the most — singing and making memories.
That yaqona session turned into an opportunity for the cousins to start their own band, through the help of their uncle, Oliver McCaig, who had roped in Sweet Sensations frontman Olsen J Sefo to listen to their tunes.
The band left a good impression, and the rest is history.
That band is now named Chapter 5 (C5), a name that was inspired by the fact they are fifth-generation musicians and descendants of those who had settled in from Wallis & Futuna.
They have been performing weekly at the Mana Coffee in Suva since then and have slowly been making their mark in Fiji’s music business.
Drummer and co-manager Nicholas Smith said it had been a year since they decided to form a band with his cousins, a decision that had slightly changed their lives.
“Initially, there were just three of us — me, Michael Yalani (lead guitarist) and Niko Yalani (rhythm guitarist),” Nicholas said.
“Then later, our bassist, Filipe Yalani, joined us, and then our other cousins Maya and Niu Smith.
“The girls helped change the sound of C5, especially with the recent and popular songs covered by them.
“Currently, we jam every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm at Mana Coffee on Selbourne St and we are so grateful to Mana Coffee for that opportunity.”
The group’s style of music varies from time to time, depending on their audience, but it is one that relies heavily on reggae.
They’re also looking to play at the 2024 Bounty Reggae Christmas Festival on December 21 at Buckhurst and Bidesi grounds in Suva.
“The audience can look forward to some good reggae covers because we are bringing a vibrant and engaging stage presence that promises to captivate them.
“We look up to artistes such as Olsen J Sefo and Miles Manulevu. They are our inspiration.
“Also, a special mention to my dad, Sanfred Smith, and our big brother Sebastian Yalani, who also helped influence our music preferences.
“Yes, we are pressured, but this is a challenge we need to take in order to become better in the future.
“I urge people to come on down and watch us play at the 2024 Bounty Reggae Music Festival.”
