West Ambrym string band returns with 14-track album

February 9, 2026 10:46 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Charles Hakwa.

Lonmeha Local String Band (LLSB) from Polipetakever village in West Ambrym has recorded a new album, which is still in production at Mastersounds Studio.

The band’s bush bassist, Tensley Mansop, says “Lonmeha” in the West Ambrym language translates to “clear place” or “desert.”

On the album title, Mansop explains it reflects the band’s return with a new release since their previous album in 1988.

He is pleased that three of the original band members have joined him and the younger musicians to create the album.

Mansop says the blend of the older melodic voices with the younger ones creates a unique sound.

The upcoming album includes 14 tracks, featuring love songs as well as songs about development and encouraging young people to navigate everyday challenges.

Although the album has not yet been launched, tickets are on sale for fans to prepay for pro cards ahead of release.

Pro cards cost VT2,000 and can be purchased in Port Vila, as well as on Santo and Malekula. Fans are encouraged to visit the LLSB Facebook page for contact details on how to pre-purchase.

Lonmeha plays their songs to the fast Shefa string band beat, so fans of Tokosouwia, Dausake, or Lautano 2 will enjoy their music. Songs are performed in West Ambrym and Bislama, with one track about Efate partly sung in the north Efate (Taleva) language.

Mansop is calling on everyone from West Ambrym living in Port Vila to support the band by purchasing a pre-sale ticket, noting that this helps the local music scene grow.

On behalf of the band, Mansop says “sipa mon” (thank you very much) to God for making the album possible, and he also conveys gratitude to supporters in Port Vila and overseas who have assisted in recording the album.

The band hopes to perform at this year’s Fest’Napuan Music Festival.