WOMAD

Public Opinion Afro orchestra

From Australia

Inspired by Nigeria's infectious Afrobeat music, Public Opinion Afro Orchestra introduces contemporary African funk to Australian dancefloors. The brainchild of long time musical collaborators Zvi Belling, Ethan Hill (DJ Manchild) and Tristan Ludowyk, this mammoth 19-musician ensemble from Melbourne writes original compositions that echo the influential Afrobeat movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Indeed, this group's tribal rhythms and blasting vocal riffs from powerful MCs equate to the modern-day "musical weapon" that afro-beat pioneer Fela Kuti originally conceived. Their politically conscious lyrics and authentic West African grooves remain faithful to the Afrobeat origins, thanks to the input of singers Kuukua and Lydia Acqua, guitarist David Marama, percussionist Nui Moon, drummer Julian Goyma, keys player John McAll and a five-piece horn section. The band's three leaders recently travelled to Africa to promote the first Public Opinion Afro Orchestra single Future Africa, which features leading Melbourne singers N'fa (previously with 1200 Techniques) and 1/6th, which was recorded and mixed by Andy Baldwin in New York. While on their jaunt to Africa, the Public Opinion crew recorded with hip hop stars Tumi Molekane (South Africa) - who will be joining them live at WOMADelaide - and Modenine (Nigeria), with these tracks set to feature on the band's upcoming debut album.
(Biography supplied by WOMADelaide 2010)

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