Inspired by the infectious afro-beat music of Nigeria and its neighbours, The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra delivers contemporary African funk to Australian dancefloors.
The afro-beat movement of the 60’s and 70’s has been making a worldwide resurgence in live venues and clubs alike. The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra’s powerful MCs and hypnotic rhythms are the modern-day “musical weapon” that Fela Kuti conceived of. Their conscious lyrics and West African grooves are relevant today, while remaining faithful to the message of afro-beat.
The group is the brainchild of Zvi Belling, Ethan Hill (DJ Manchild) and Tristan Ludowyk who are long-time friends and musical collaborators, each with vast and diverse musical backgrounds to draw upon. Belling, Hill and Ludowyk travelled to Nigeria and South Africa to record with African hip hop stars Tumi and Modenine. These artists feature on the band's ARIA-nominated album “Do Anything Go Anywhere”, which was accompanied by a sold-out 12” vinyl release. In 2011 they released a 7” single “Mr Clean” on the HopeStreet Recordings label followed by the singles “Shake” and “The System” in 2012.
Performance highlights include performing at the MCG for the AFL Multicultural Round (2012), the Perth International Arts Festival (2011), Byron Bay Bluesfest (2011), WOMADelaide featuring Tumi (2010), and the Melbourne International Arts Festival (2008).
Want to know more?
We acknowledge and pay respect to the traditional owners, and continuing custodians of this land, the palawa people, on which Pangaea Festival is held.
