Top-End Music Talent on Show at Garma 2018

10 July 2018

Some of the biggest names in the Arnhem Land music scene are set to take the stage at this year’s Garma in celebration of the event’s 20th anniversary. 

 
Ripple Effect, an all-women rock band from Maningrida listed as one of Triple J Unearthed’s must-listen acts of 2018, is one of the leading lights on the bill. 
 
They will be supported by rising female stars Emily Wurramara and Dhapanbal Yunupingu, both of whom return to Garma after successful shows last year. 
 
Yothu Yindi Foundation CEO Denise Bowden said the unique Arnhem Land sound, recognised around the country and internationally, had been a feature of Garma since its beginning. 
 
“Garma has a reputation for delivering some of the region’s most popular acts, along with new and emerging artists, and this year’s event is no exception,” Mrs Bowden said. 
 
“There’s a strong focus on Top End talent which celebrates both the depth of the local scene and the growth of the industry over the past 20 years. 
 
“Those familiar with this region’s musical influence will recognise some of the Territory’s most famous Indigenous surnames from this year’s line-up: Lalara, Wurramurra, Dhamarrandji, Marawili, Wunungmurra, and Gurruwiwi. 
 
“One of the most exciting developments is the new wave of female Arnhem Land musicians and bands, so look out for Valentina Brave (Maningrida) and Serina O’Conner (Nhulunbuy) in addition to Emily, Dhapanbal and Ripple Effect. 
 
“It’s also great to see new bands like Tjupi, from Papunya, and My Boys Are Good Boys 
(Galiwin’ku), on the line-up, as both were born out of the Warumpi music family and its geographical locations. 
 
“We go back to the roots of Yolngu rock with Wirrinyga Band (Milingimbi) and Sunrize Band (Maningrida), both of whom inspired the next generation of musicians, along with Yolngu super-group and crowd favourites Bärra Westwind.” 
 
Other popular local dance bands fuelled by high energy and saltwater reggae sounds are also on the line-up, including Garrangali Band (Baniyala), Wildwater (Maningrida), Mambali Band (Numbulwar) and Eylandt Band (Groote Eylandt). 
 
They will be joined by OKA, taking time out from a busy international touring schedule, and David Spry & the Moral High Ground, who will be bringing an all-star cast from Darwin along with hi funky sound. 
 
Garma 2018 will take place from 3-6 August at Gulkula in northeast Arnhem Land. 
Tickets for this year’s special 20th anniversary event have sold out. 

Media Contact: Jason Frenkel 0402 282 251
 
 

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