ANCIENT and modern meet in the music of New Zealand artists Wai, who play at the Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham on Wednesday June 25.

Wai, whose name means "water" are native Maoris, whose music combines traditional Maoritanga (Maori culture) with contemporary pop styles like hip-hop, reggae, funk and R&B.

Twice nominated for the BBC World Music Awards, Wai also add an extra dimension with rhythms derived from organic samples such as breathing, heartbeats, insect and bird sounds. Wai's remarkable stage act is heightened by their colourful costumes and the use of the percussive "poi".

"Poi" are tight balls of plant fibre which are twirled on long strings to produce some amazing sounds. Their live performance features two musicians, percussion and keyboards, plus three vocalists who also perform ritual Maori war dances.

Wai, the people from "the Land of the Long White Cloud", promise to be an unforgettable visual and aural experience. Tickets cost £8.50 from the box office on 01329 310600.