Presented by Nexus Multicultural Arts Centre
Reviewed 25 February 2014
As soon as Ajak Kwai, multi-talented South Sudanese singer, steps on to the stage she asks the audience ‘Why must we fight? Why can’t we just talk?’ We feel the raw emotion behind the music before it even begins, as well as Kwai’s passion and joy. There is some unnameable, powerful force behind African music and Ajak Kwai knows how to deliver it.
Kwai’s new album, Of Cows, Women and War, is a touching collection of songs about life in Sudan, childhood, war, and even the wonder of water, something we take for granted. Most importantly, it champions women’s rights and advocates non-violent solutions to the problems of the world.
Kwai herself is a talented and haunting vocalist, be it in Arabic, English or Sudanese. Her interesting mix of traditional and modern styles makes her stand out from the crowd. Not to be overshadowed, her accompanying band lay down some impressively technical percussion and keyboard tracks.
The energy and positivity of the music was enough to get people up and dancing, and even singing along. It’s nice to see that, even if you don’t speak the language, music can bring people together. As Kwai says, it is music that has kept her alive and positive through many hardships. It would be nice, however, if just a few more songs from the album, or even previous works were performed. A wider variety of songs would serve to highlight the talent of Kwai and her band.
Ajak Kwai: Of Cows, Women and War is an interesting and beautiful take on the cabaret format that will change your perspective and, hopefully, give you a bit more hope for the world.
Reviewed by James Rudd
Venue: Nexus Multicultural Arts Centre, Lion Arts Centre, Cnr North Tce & Morphett St
Season: 25-27 February
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $18.00-$23.00
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or phone 1300 621 255
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