North African outfit, Bab L’Bluz were a combination of psychedelic rock, rock and contemporary music. The name literally means ‘the gate to the blues’. Richard J Frankland, a prominent multi-talented activist and artist, was a hard-hitting voice for First Nations people. A Gunditjmara elder, Frankland’s powerful vocal and rock-blues music, challenged the status quo and demanded all to consider the contribution they can make to right the wrongs of the injustices of the past.
Colourful Korean folk outfit, ADG7, performed their own brand of shamanic funk. With nine members, ADG7 connect with their musical heritage, immersing the audience in spiritual blessings and positive energy. San Salvador were a collective of six voices, 2 drums, 12 hands and a tambourine from south west France. Themes of their drunken rhythms and slow songs included religion, spring and war, in what they, themselves call, ‘radical singing’. The Proclaimers, performed their timeless songs on a hot afternoon, sun-drenched stage 2 to an enormous crowd of all ages, that loved every beat during their folk, rock, pop and New Wave set. Music where all genres collide! Fantastic Negrito, activist and songwriter performed tracks from his new hard-hitting album, White Jesus Black Problems. Blistering rock and roll with infectious R&B grooves and buoyant funk energy and outrageously cool stage attire, he was a crowd favourite.
Florence and the Machine, fronted by enigmnatic Florence Welch needs no introduction. The thousands that watched, danced, sang and were captivated by her music, words and dynamic stage presence as she repeatedly moved the full length of the stage, even entering the front pit to hold fans and sing to individuals in the crowd. Melbourne based, East Timorese band, the Dili Alstars performed a soulful reggae set, highlighting the cultural spirit that is shared by all in the name of peace – see #what’smyscene for a full interview. Nakhane, a multi award-winning singer, actor and novelist, commanded stage 7, creating a polyrhythmic wall of sound that echoed the electronic dance music of South African gqom and kwaito, the house music that emerged from Soweto in the 1990’s.
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