From deep in the South Pacific, Cornerstone Roots pay respect to the colossal world of Jamaican reggae, while confidently bringing their own influences and uplifting messages to the mix. This approach of classic cool and future consciousness has helped set the tone for reggae in Aotearoa New Zealand since 2001 when vocalist/guitarist Brian Ruawai and bass player and partner Naomi-Jean Tuaopepe established Cornerstone Roots. Based in Raglan/Whaingaroa in Waikato, they bring the power of Maori and Samoan culture with a deep knowledge for authentic roots reggae, dub and ska to the stage and studio. Playing alongside the Cornerstone Roots founders the current line up features Andre Peri on drums, Reti Hedley on keyboards/guitar, and stepping up in his parent’s footsteps 12 year old Reiki Ruawai on backing vocals. For the record, Cornerstone Roots has released three critically acclaimed albums, Soul Revolution, Free Yourself and Future Is Now, plus two EPs, One Fine Day and Forward Movement. Live, Cornerstone Roots are in demand nationally and across Japan, Australia and Pacific Islands. They’ve also supported reggae greats Burning Spear, Lee Scratch Perry, Sly & Robbie, Toots and The Maytals, Jimmy Cliff and The Original Wailers. In 2010 Cornerstone Roots embarked on a 22-date European tour, playing Mighty Sounds & Sazava Festivals in Czech Republic, Uprising Reggae Festival in Slovakia and Ostroda Reggae Festival in Poland. Cornerstone Roots evolution makes another leap in late 2012 with the release of Journey, a rub a dub laced single mixed and produced by DJ MU of Fat Freddy’s Drop fame.