Tiki Taane aka “King of Dubs” in New Zealand is a highly respected artist who is renowned not only in his homeland but worldwide. The apparent versatility in his musical style can definitely captivate listeners.

Tiki’s latest full-length album In The World Of Light draws from an affluent synthesis of dubstep, hip-hop, electronica, drum n bass; as well as romanticized lyrics and soothing vox by Tiki and other prolific dubstep artists and renowned vocalists from New Zealand.

The opening song “Summertime” (featuring DubXL) is the first track which is well-balanced as it features an affluent range of dubstep and drum n bass with some soothing backing vocals. “Soundtrack To Forever” features Bulletproof and is the second track and latest single from the album. It also has a mean Resin Dogs influenced video clip to accompany it (below).

“Light Years Away” features Crushington and is a yearning for the presence of a loved one, continuously thinking of them, wishing they were there with you. A synthesis of dubstep, drum n bass and romanticized lyricism in this specific song seems peculiar but actually syncs well together.

If there is a song that could communicate a message any clearer it would be a song featuring Truth called “Nothing But Love” as Tiki sings the continuous words “I’ve got nothing but love, for you” for about three and a half minutes straight. You’d be glad to know that we’ve got nothing but love for you too Tiki!

“La Bicha Dub” is the next track. Now this track is mean! I dig the beats, the Latino influence with funky Spanish vocals by Bebe and a slight touch of electronic sounds. I’ve never heard anything like it before, love this blend and could see this being played at some form of party.

Tiki is still yearning for your presence with a remix of “Light Years Away” (featuring Concord Dawn). I prefer the previous version though as this sounds a bit too hectic for me; it kind of sounds like it’s a perfect depiction of his frustration. “A Beautiful Mistake” (featuring Moana & The Tribe) is an eerie kind of song to listen to. It kind of gives you that chill up and down your spine. I’ve got no idea what the lady in the track is saying though as the music overpowers the vocals (unless I am going deaf) but it sounds somewhat harmonious. A good contrast with the drum n bass vibe too.

“King Of The Dubs” is a track that I could definitely see it being used as an opening track for his shows. If you hear it you would probably agree. I can imagine this track commencing and Tiki walking on stage and making some kind of epic introduction to commence his shows on tour. How appropriate is the title of the track too?

“Bloodstone” features Hollie Smith & Tiki’s father Uekaha Taane. This song sounds almost like a tribal Maori warrior-style song with its richness of instrumentation, drums, percussion and maracas as well as the strength of Hollie Smith’s vocals. “Come With Me” features Sambora - another one of the romantic tracks with some steady drum n bass. The lyricism is sweet however, I don’t think the music and vocals synced well as the other tracks did. The phasing out of the track is smooth though.

“Chico” (or “boy” in Spanish) is a gorgeous track that features a gorgeous Charlie Te Marama. The next track follows on with “My Lion” (featuring Optimus Gryme) and Tiki dedicates this to his son which depicts the message to be a “peaceful warrior” and a “lion” – symbolically. He points out that his own father had passed this legacy onto him and he will pass it onto his son - from generation to generation.

“Kaitiaki” (featuring Uekaha Taane) is a short track with a message spoken in the Maori language, for those that understand it. It is then followed by the final track “In The World Of Light”. It has such a majestic sound that it could also be used as an opening track during Tiki’s performances. In The World Of Light is another masterpiece by Tiki that is worth checking out.

Tiki is no stranger to Aussie shores as he has performed with his renowned band Salmonella Dub at various Australian music festivals throughout the years including Big Day Out, Homebake and Reggaetown and has been featured on Triple J’s “Like A Version”.

Very soon Tiki will be returning to Aussie shores as he commences his solo tour in May. Tour dates and tickets are available for purchase through www.moshtix.com.au.

Get in early as this is anticipated to sell fast!

Review Score: 8/10