Bio

Groove Merchants Masaya was formed in 2019 when lead singer Reiki Ruawai needed to put together a band for a university assignment. He coaxed his sister, Kaea Ruawai to jump on the drums and friend Muroki to play bass. Performing as a three-piece for a short time before they were joined by Jules Blewman (TOI) on lead guitar and Joe Kaptein on keys where they released Tales of Moonshine.

Reiki & Muroki then headed overseas on a skate/surf escapade. Writing songs along the way gave the inspiration for tracks like Elders & Wonders, Partake and Shake the Sun. The band returned to New Zealand and recorded their 2019 EP, Tongue & Groove. Singles Soda Dreams and Jamma were released in 2020 and they started to play successful live shows and festivals.

In late 2020 Muroki pursued his solo career and Nat Hathaway joined as their new bassist. Since then they have released new singles Mung Bean, Ride Wit Us and Attention. Masaya have just released their debut album Chronicles of Youth on their own imprint Rafiki Ltd via The Orchard/Sony. Their style is a mash of Indie/Groove/Soul/Roots music that emanates from their surf town home vibes in Raglan, NZ.

Links

• Artist Website
• Facebook Page
• Youtube Page
• Instagram Page
• Spotify Page
• Apple Music Page