Semesa Patrick Vilise (Jnr), better known as Mesa, is making a name for himself in the music scene as the electric guitarist and singer of the lead Fijian band – InsideOut. In a recent interview, Mesa shared insights into the band’s collaborative songwriting process, their musical evolution, and their commitment to empowering younger generations through their art.
InsideOut was formed in 2013, initiated by Apakuki Nalawa famously known as KUKI, the Director of Nalawa Holdings and Resonance Entertainment. He started the band off with his childhood friend Timothy Solomon (Tim), who started as a duo. They later brought Mesa into the fold, who was a former classmate of Kuki. This trio laid the foundation for what would become a dynamic four-member band known for its unique sound and cultural representation.
Collaborative Songwriting
InsideOut thrives on collaboration. Mesa emphasized that every member contributes to the songwriting process, ensuring a rich blend of ideas. “We work together, and when Bill and I can’t meet in person, we utilize our group chat to share and record our ideas,” he explained. This flexible approach allows them to maintain creativity despite geographical challenges.
InsideOut’s Sound
When discussing the band’s musical journey, Mesa noted that while they initially felt more comfortable within the reggae genre, they have expanded their repertoire to include jazz, rock, RnB, and more. “Our ever-growing fan base has encouraged us to explore different genres,” he said. This exploration has not only diversified their sound but also helped them hone in on what they describe as “island reggae,” a unique fusion that resonates well with the Fijian community.
Community Engagement
Mesa believes that music has the power to uplift communities. He stated that InsideOut aims to bring “good vibes and positive energy” through their performances, helping to keep youth engaged and out of trouble. The band showcases Fijian culture by incorporating vude-style music into their originals and performing traditional mekes abroad, effectively taking their cultural heritage beyond Fiji’s shores.
Performance Preparation
Before any performance, Mesa focuses on creating a positive atmosphere for himself. He avoids negative influences that could hinder his stage presence and cloud his mindset. While jamming it out in stage, he reflects on his family watching him perform, which motivates him to deliver his best.
Milestones and Future Aspirations
Mesa expressed pride in several significant milestones with InsideOut, including their recent performance at the Home Coming concert and an upcoming appearance at the Holoholo festival in Las Vegas in 2025. “These opportunities are huge achievements for us,” he remarked. He reminisced about how far they’ve come as a band, stating, “It’s all worth it.”
In addition to his musical endeavours, Mesa is also a Va’a (outrigger canoeing) coach and a dedicated family man. He highlighted how coaching complements his fitness for performances while also providing for his family. He believes that maintaining good health is crucial for longevity in the music industry.
Message to Aspiring Artists
Mesa’s advice for budding musicians is straightforward: “Keep practicing your craft, develop your own style, and be patient.” He hopes to see InsideOut continue to grow and make a name for themselves not just in the Pacific but also on the global stage.
As InsideOut prepares for exciting new projects and performances abroad, Mesa remains optimistic about their future and committed to sharing Fijian culture through their music. With more original songs on the horizon, fans can expect a vibrant blend of sounds that reflect both their cultural heritage and contemporary influences.
