By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
IT’S THE music that gets feet moving and bodies swaying to an infectious beat – reggae.
Organisers of World Reggae Jam hope to introduce more of Geelong to the beat at new community arts hub Kubu Studio.
Musicians from Australia, Africa, Brazil and Indonesia will unite to play reggae at the family-friendly event.
The jam will feature Rastafarian favourites and originals plus African, Brazilian and Indonesian reggae.
Organiser Candice Feuerring said the event would also offer food, children’s activities and a “great community vibe”.
World Reggae Jam had a successful premiere at Geelong West’s Pizza Bar last year.
The event opens with Afrobeat’s Neeni-Tuti conducting a Nyabinghi African drum circle. All drums and percussion instruments are welcome, with drum hire also available for $5.
A following reggae gig features Feuerring singing for Rasta Unity, Brazilian bass player Jahwise Elie, Indonesian singer Gito Redward and Senegal’s MG Kalonji.
Patrons also enjoy a reggae sing-along of well-known hits such as Bob Marley classics.
The World Reggae Jam collaborative featured talented musicians who had played around the world, Feuerring said.
“Most of the World Reggae Jam musicians are based in Geelong and surrounding areas, so we really wanted to bring the positive message of reggae to our local community. The event will showcase Jamaican reggae and conscious original roots music, spreading a message of unity, respect and peace.”
Kubu Studio offers artists musicians, photographers and film makers a venue and exhibition space.
Director Emma Bottomley said the studio created bridges between cultures in the hope of fostering international artistic exchanges.
World Reggae Jam begins 4pm 17 October at Kubu Studio, Bayley St, Geelong.
More information is available on World Reggae Jam’s Facebook page or by phoning 0416 262 388.
