Womadelaide music preview: A satisfying music melange
The feted celebration of tunes from across the globe returns to Adelaide this March
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Adelaide dives head-first into world music over the March long weekend, with some of the planet’s top acts appearing at Botanic Park/Tainmuntilla as part of WOMADelaide. Friday sets the tone with pumping house sets from Zeitgeist Freedom Energy Exchange and Crazy P, while Australian legends The Necks present a genre-defying improvised set. Headlining is Italy’s Jovanotti, who combines lyrics in his mother tongue with familiar yet recognisably Italian sounds.
On Saturday, prepare for Barkaa, the powerhouse matriarch of Australian rap, as well as Yothu Yindi, part of Australia’s unique musical identity, playing classics including poignant anthem ‘Treaty’. From closer to home comes Any Young Mechanic’s tall folk tales while Jalen Ngonda’s revival of soul should be a soothing intermission before headliner an all-round icon, Grace Jones, storms the stage.
The line-up for Sunday is stacked with local artists, including Baker Boy’s vibrant, energetic hip-hop vibes, the luscious yet raw vocals of My Chérie, and the captivating artistry of Kaiit. Experience Obongjayar’s effortless blend of driving beats and smooth vocals, before finishing with headliner Oumou Sangaré’s charisma and femme-forward message.
Don’t forget Monday’s a holiday. Chill with dynamic beats from Blinky Bill and BadBadNotGood or, for classic WOMAD vibes, get your final fix with Roberto Fonseca’s Cuban jazz before Arrested Development close the weekend with hip-hop classics.
Womadelaide, Botanic Park/Tainmuntilla, Friday 6–Monday 9 March; picture: Samuel Graves.