Mahara Tocker

"We are all here in this story. The Maori, the Catholic and the Jew..." ('For You' Hurricane's Eye)Born in Taumarunui of Ngati Tuwharetoa and Jewish Descent, Mahara Tocker was immersed in music from an early age. As one of eight Tocker children - including established musician, older sister Mahinaarangi - Mahara was raised on a diet of musical soundtracks, her Dad's love affair with the music of Glenn Miller and her Mum's passion for the vocal elegance of Ella Fitzgerald. Leaving Taumarunui in her late teens, Mahara went on to support as a backing vocalist, and to share the stage with many Kiwi artists. She has emerged as a talented singer/songwriter in her own right.Mahara has combined her great love for music with a wide range of life experiences and a fascinating infusion of Maori and Catholic spirituality, to create a collection of deep, provocative, sensual songs. Her album 'Hurricane's Eye' was produced by Eddie Rayner (Space Waltz, Split Enz, Schnell Fenster, Kylie Minogue, Crowded House, NZ Idol) and engineered by Adrian Stuckey (NZ Idol). 'Hurricane's Eye' was premiered in April 2005 to an enthusiastic gathering of music industry personnel, fans, family and friends at Auckland's renowned Odeon Cafe.A finalist in the 2006 Tui Awards, "Best Maori Album of the Year" for 'Hurricane's Eye', Mahara looks forward to what her next album will bring...