OzAsia is more than just a celebration of the best of Asian cuisine and that’s why Nexus Arts, as part of Adelaide’s favourite Asian-focused festival, is throwing a massive block party on Friday, 28 October. right in the heart of Adelaide’s west end with multi-award-winning artist Kuya James and DJ and curator DIOLA.
You’re being invited to celebrate the global rise of Asian hip hop and RnB with some of Australia’s biggest artists, alongside incredible up-and-coming talent, at an unforgettable Lion Arts Centre event this spring.
Headliner Kuya James developed a love for iconic 90s gangsta rap artists like Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre during high school. Using that inspiration, he then delved into his Filipino background to create a signature sound, bookmarked by pulsating tribal beats, Asian samples, flipping vocals, synths and sub bass.
His instrumentals alone, challenge even the most well-built PA systems, and as an artist he aims to highlight the similarities and celebrate the differences of culture by strengthening Australia’s understanding of their place in South East Asia through music, dance, art and live performance.
In 2012, Krystel Diola (DIOLA) created her own events company Behind The Front, curating specialised soul and off-kilter electronic soul experimental music events. She’s worked with local and international artists with the aim of increasing awareness for our local forward-thinking experimental soul music community—a community now in full bloom.
DIOLA shares her knowledge to foster the new generation of musicians and as a DJ herself, her music traverses house, soul, hip hop, boogie, experimental and footwork.
Eastmode, an Australian rap group consisting of three of Brisbane City’s best artists Swilo, Chong Ali and Day Know, will also be performing, delivering their turbulent yet disciplined lyrics.
Known for their bass heavy beats, agile wordplay, audacious music videos and ambiguous eastern references, this group have collaborated with Kuya in the past to reinvigorate the spirits of golden age hip hop.
Other arts set to hit the stage on the night include Punjabi-Australian singer, Parvyn, known for her work in cult psychedelic band The Bombay Royale. She’ll be performing her take on electronica and jazz, inspired by her background in Sikh devotional music and her training in classical Indian music and dance.
South Australia’s own “group of friends” Barkada and single artist Claz will also be bringing their unique flare to OzAsia.
Event details:
When: Friday, 28 October, 8pm
Where: Nexus Arts, Lion Arts Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
Tickets: You can book your street party tickets here.
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