JOLT Arts: Melbourne African Traditional Ensemble (MATE)
20 June @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm AEST

MATE brings a powerful, cross-cultural soundscape to JOLTED Arts Space, where ancient traditions meet bold, contemporary energy. This dynamic collaboration weaves together the hypnotic melodies of the Kamalengoni (West African hunter’s harp), the meditative pulse of the Mbira, and the driving force of African percussion, creating a rich, layered sonic journey.
At the heart of the ensemble are masterful artists Valanga Khoza, Aboubacar Djelike Kouyate, whose deep musical lineages and virtuosic interplay breathe life into these traditions. Joining them is Jason Tamiru on Yidaki (Didgeridoo), grounding the performance in the ancient sound traditions of Australia’s First Peoples. The result is a rare and electrifying dialogue between continents Africa and Australia in rhythmic and spiritual conversation.
Uplifting, immersive, and deeply rooted, MATE’s performance invites audiences into a shared musical space where culture, connection, and groove take centre stage.
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