Heritage inspires "thump-hop" storytelling

Members of a US musical collective brandishing interests in indigenous and youth issues, sustainability, healthy living and direct action will visit Nannup for a special one-off performance aimed at children this month.

Influenced by hip-hop, folk, jazz, tribal and native and earth-based music, Nahko and Medicine for the People considers themselves within the self-described genre of acoustic thump-hop storytelling.

"thumpThe band has embarked on an eight-week tour which includes Bali and Australia’s east coast.

Highlights include a scheduled headlining of the Byron Spirit Festival and a closing date at the Bali Spirit Festival in March.

Oregon-native Nahko, born a mix of Apache, Puerto Rican and Filipino heritage, and adopted into an American family, suffered an identity crisis from an early age.

But the unifying power of music entered his life as a healing remedy, when he took up the piano at age six.

Armed with his new-found talent, he set out to bridge the cultural gaps and began producing a public, musical journal of his journey toward personal, spiritual, and communal healing.

Whether solo or with the dynamic group of musical troubadours known as Medicine for the People, Nahko delivers a soulful dose of curative vibrations, with vocals, guitar, flute and drums that move audiences.

The musician’s lyrics bear the burden of heavy messages but the load is lightened by agile melodies and driving rhythms which coerce audiences into spirited, purifying movement.

His disarming humour is also typically a feature, while lyrical stories open listeners to the power of the songs.

Nahko will be joined by Chase and Hope for a free talk and small acoustic set at Nannup Town Hall on February 20 from 3.30pm. The band will also play at The Green Room in Bridgetown later that evening.

For information, phone Warren on 9756 1500.