Entertainment
17 May, 2025
‘Stand and rise’
RESPECTED Kuranda elder and representative of Indigenous rock Djawarray is launching a new album ‘Magayin’ alongside seven-piece band Koahlition at Ellis Beach Bar and Grill tomorrow for a unique musical and spiritual experience.
After releasing Binal in 2023, Djawarray – whose name is Bertie Riley – is finally back with a new album ‘Magayin’ which means ‘stand and rise’ alongside long-time collaborators Koahlition for a deeply cultural and reggae infused experience mixing tradition with a contemporary sound.
The launch at Ellis Beach Bar and Grill starts at 5pm and will feature appearances and performances by other Kuranda up and coming artists and dancers with Djawarray performing from 9pm.
“This record is for our people, for our families and for anyone who’s ever felt the spirit of this land. It’s also a message to my mob for those that don’t know how to rise or be strong to stand and rise together,” Djawarray said.
“It’s about remembering where we come from and making space for our voices in today’s world, moving forward together.”
Djawarray’s co-manager Tracy Rusch said this is the perfect event for someone who enjoyed unique musical experiences.
“Doors open at 5pm and we’re having some rap artists, we have Diggis a local rapper from Kuranda, another Indigenous rapper from Kuranda called ZDC and we have the young up-and-coming Cloud 9 who are the next generation along very similar lines as Djawarray and the Mayi Wunba Dance Troupe, they’ll be performing and doing the introduction to some of the songs on the night,” she said.
“Djawarray is a very respected elder in the community, so when you’re there you’re really going to realise how almost spiritual it all is.
“I think it’ll be pumping, it’ll be a lot of fun and if you like Indigenous music, that’s the place to be.”
On the day they’ll also be a courtesy bus from the northern beaches to Ellis Beach provided by the venue.
To find out more and purchase tickets, visit https://bit.ly/43jsk6g
