A Central Australian musical duo are bringing their desert sounds to Campbelltown.
Apakatjah – Dion Forrester and Jonathan Lindsay-Tjapaltjarri Hermawan – weave a reflection of their blended cultures with a wide range of musical influences that includes Aboriginal desert reggae like Tjupi Band, old school metal like Iron Maiden and the guitar master, Tommy Emmanuel.
The pair combine intricate guitar work with ancient languages, stirring harmonies and traditional instrumentation.
Dion and Jonathan share a heritage that combines the cultures of Aboriginal Australia with a legacy that also includes European, Indonesian, Irish, Welsh and Dutch ancestry.
The word “apakatjah’’ means a person of mixed race heritage and the duo has embraced the term to demonstrate the pride they have in their identity and to draw strength from their culture.
Apakatjah say they are thrilled to bring their desert sounds to South West Sydney and will be taking up residence at the Campbelltown arts centre from May 22 until June 2.
While in residence, Dion and Jonathan will be providing mentorship to primary school students within the Campbelltown area through musical workshops and writing songs for the follow up to their highly acclaimed debut album, In Between.
“We are looking forward to the opportunity to focus on a new direction and harness a new creative energy for the next album,’’ says Jonathan.
“The break away from our homes and communities will give us a breath of fresh air and the much-needed space to focus on what it is that we want to express most in the next stage of our music career.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“This opportunity will expose us to new stories, strong spirits, new friendships and strengthen our vision,’’ he said.[/social_quote]
The director of the arts centre, Michael Dagostino, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to provide a creative space for Apakatjah to write new music and present the work from their residency at Campbelltown Arts Centre.’’
SNAPSHOT
WHO Apakatjah with special guests Jess Beck with Pirra in acoustic mode
WHAT Community barbecue from 6pm, show commences at 7pm
WHEN Friday, May 25
WHERE Campbelltown Arts Centre
TICKETS Adults $10, concession $5, children under 12 free, available at the venue, online or by calling 4645 4100. This event is all ages. Please bring ID.
