Melbourne Music
RHYTHM & RIGHTS!
(Free entry)
With 12 different acts over eight nights, HRAFF's music series Rhythm and Rights includes DJ's, live Gambian drumming, Sitar music of Hindustan and Afghanistan as well as musicians from Ethiopia, Colombia and local Melbourne artists. With the support of Multicultural Arts Victoria and the City of Melbourne, the Festival has put together a music line up showcasing a number of renowned musicians. The musical aspect of the festival seeks to promote acceptance and understanding in Australia by showcasing what is positive and endearing about cultures from around the world. Africans, Afghanis, Colombians and Indians will fuse Hip Hop, Reggae, Soul, Electronica, Drumming, RnB and Roots into an astonishing musical celebration.
Leo Dale and Girish Makwana
Girish Makwana and Leo Dale have a firm belief that there is no such thing as "meditation music" but rather that music IS meditation. Does this mean music is to float off on and no funk? NO WAY! These two master musicians and musical storytellers explore the translation between jazz and classical Indian cultures with a beat set to mesmerise.
Thursday 13th Nov (Opening), 6pm @ Capitol Theatre Foyer
Black Roots
Black Roots are one of the most original and soulful African reggae acts in Oz. Inspired by lead singer William Kadima's rich and dynamic voice, Black Roots will bring a mix of feel good African reggae infused with jazz, Afrobeat, Latin flavours and smooth gospel harmonies to Opening Night.
Thursday 13th Nov (Opening Night), 9:30pm @ Red Violin
Diafrix with Little G
Following the film 'Bling,' the evenings hip hop theme will continue as Diafrix and Little G team up for an electrifying show at the Festival Lounge. Rhymes will flow and human rights awareness will grow as these renowned performers fuse funk, soul and reggae into an exhilarating hip hop act.
Friday 14th Nov, 11pm @ Red Violin
Uber Lingua Sound System & Gypsy Dub Sound System
This amazing collection of DJs, video artists and musicians go far beyond 'World' music by fusing languages, cultures and social movements with hip hop, electronic, dub, rock and any other genre you can come up with. Influences from all over the globe are incorporated into their exciting, energetic performances.
Saturday 15th Nov, 9pm @ Red Violin
Rosaline Yuen
This talented young songstress will provide the perfect Sunday night atmosphere with her emotive vocal style and sweetly soulful alternative pop songs. Not only will she charm you with her performance, she will donate all profits from the sale of her album Garden to Amnesty International.
Sunday 16th Nov, 9pm @ Red Violin
Afro Habesha
Formed recently under the guidance of one of Ethiopia's best musicians, Daniel Atlaw, this lively band plays catchy arrangements of traditional and contemporary music from Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. Also featuring the great Australian musicians Nicky Bomba and Patrick Kearney and Ethiopian circus musicians Seble Girma, Abiy Sahele and Cass.
Thursday 20th Nov, 9pm @ Red Violin
Tipu Tipuana
Fronted by Colombian songbird Rose Paez, this four piece acoustic ensemble draw on their Latin American backgrounds to inspire breathtaking melodies with rich, charming, woody tones. Their alluring exotic style is in keeping with their band name which scientifically means 'Rose Wood'.
Friday 21st Nov, 9pm @ Red Violin
Jungal
This all female trio combine didgeridoos, slide guitars, bass and percussion with their warm harmonies and powerful performances to captivate and delight audiences. Jungal has created a distinct brand of blues and roots music with their poignant vocals and earthy sound that is not to be missed.
Saturday 22nd Nov, 9pm @ Red Violin
Maestro Khalil Gudaz
Khalil Gudaz is one of the most outstanding practitioners of Sitar of Hindustani and Afghani music in Australia today. This internationally recognized artist will showcase his dazzling mastery of the Sitar with breathtaking songs and improvisations at Closing Night.
Sunday 23rd Nov (Closing night) @ Capitol Thatre
King Marong
Master of percussion, melodic singer and charismatic performer, King Marong is an honoured and revered Gambian artist. He will use his expertise on the Djembe and Sabar ensemble to bring a vibrant African rhythm to Closing Night festivities.
Sunday 23rd Nov (Closing Night), 9:30pm @ Red Violin
Muhanamwé
Muhanamwé, meaning "Culture", was formed with the vision of sharing the traditional West African culture with the Australian people. Bringing together powerful rhythms, sweet melodies and stunning moves, Muhanamwé brings to life the colourful and vibrant culture of West Africa. Muhanamwé will deliver a highly captivating and unforgettable performance on Closing Night.
Sunday 23rd Nov (Closing Night), 9:30pm @ Red Violin