The Congos + Keanu Nelson | Tumbalong Nights

One of Jamaica's most legendary roots reggae acts performs a special free concert, plus alluring dub-gospel from Luritja Country.

Formed in the 1970s and launching with Heart of the Congo, an album considered one of roots reggae's most influential to this day, The Congos are simply inseparable from the history of reggae music.

Backed by a live band, original trio Cedric Myton, Roydel 'Ashanti' Johnson and Watty Burnett have a powerful live presence, as ethereal three-way vocal harmonies and classic root rhythms combine with raw energy and a deeply spiritual Rastafarian message.

Joining The Congos is Keanu Nelson, a Luritja singer-songwriter from Papunya, a remote community Northwest of Alice Springs.

Described as dub-gospel, Nelson's debut album Wilurarrakutu sees Nelson sing in both Papunya Luritja and English across a collection of minimal DIY electronics.

With dashes of disco, reggae and gospel alongside melodies that could belong to Suicide or Arthur Russell, Wilson's songs are a delightfully intimate portrait of his home, community and Country.

Playing together is a testament to The Congos and other reggae pioneers, with a sonic legacy stretching from Jamaica to Luritja Country.

Free for all to enjoy, Tumbalong Nights ignites Darling Quarter's Tumbalong Park with 23 nights of music during Vivid Sydney, with a cross-cultural lineup of live music from international legends, Australian icons, emerging stars, plus DJs.