Set amongst the majestic Moreton Bay Figs of Adelaide’s Botanic Park, the 20th Anniversary of WOMAD - The World's Festival continued it's 4 day run over the Adelaide Cup long weekend, supplying a massive dose of world music, arts and dance to Australia’s culture devotees.
We were there for the Saturday set, catch our highlights below as well as the amazing colours and sights captured by our roving photographer Aaron Vinall.
Le Trio Joubran (Palestine)
Le Trio Joubran is comprised of Palestinian brothers Samir, Wissam and Adnan Joubran. Their Womadelaide performance featured accompaniment from percussionist Yousef Hbeisch.
The family trio, hailing from Nazareth, are masters of the oud and have released an impressive five albums to date. Now based in Paris, the siblings descend from a family tradition of making and playing the traditional Arabic instrument, similar in appearance to the Lute.
The brothers presented a passionate set for the gathered crowd in their first Australian concert, playing haunting, emotional instrumental pieces with few words and much improvisation.
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain (UK)
Showing off the full versatility of the ukulele, this incredibly personable orchestra presented an hour of music with nothing but this iconic, oft maligned little instrument.
With much gusto and a witty repartee of dad-style humour, they covered a gamut of modern classics including of ACDC's Born to be wild, David Bowie's Life on Mars and an a Capella version of the Sex Pistol's Anarchy in the UK. Garnering huge crowd applause, they were a hit with the late afternoon punters.
First Aid Kit (Sweden)
The melodic indie tunes of these two Swedish sisters drew and impressive crowd to the normally sedate Stage 3.
Equally impressive is the talent of this young pair, just 22 and 19. Klara and Johanna Söderberg wowed with a beautiful set of well-crafted tunes that belie their age and showcase their influences.
With recognizable strains of modern folk indie giants Fleet foxes as well as classics such as Joni Mitchell and Fleetwood Mac, their well-attended set should see a rush of album sales at the Womadelaide Music Shop.
The Barefoot Review Team
Photography by Aaron Vinall of Vin[Digit]all
