Kanak band on tour

t's remarkable that the music of the Pacific features so sparingly on the world music scene in Australia. In PNG, Fiji and the Pacific, there is some great music that combines the best of indigenous rhythms and harmonies with contemporary pop instruments. Despite Kanaky being one of our closest neighbours, few people here even know its pop music exists. Mea Nebe is set to change that.

Kanak band Mea Nebe won a "battle of the bands" involving more than 30 bands, in which the prize was a tour of Australia. The band is touring as the support act for African pop sensation Angelique Kidjo. Mea Nebe hails from the central east coast of Kanaky; its music combines catchy electric guitar melodies, Melanesian drum rhythms and lyrics that espouse the independence cause supported by most indigenous youth. Mea Nebe's music resembles the bright guitar dance music of southern Africa with a touch of reggae.

Catch Mea Nebe in Melbourne, opening for Angelique Kidjo: the Palace, Friday, September 13. In Sydney, opening for Angelique Kidjo: Metro, Sunday, September 15; Monday, September 16; Tuesday September 17; Wednesday, September 18. Mea Nebe will feature in a special South Pacific night to wind up its Australian tour at the Harbourside Brasserie, Thursday, September 19.

From GLW issue 246