Having just returned from an extensive tour of Canada and the USA, and with a signature sound and unforgettable live reputation, OKA is still serving up their signature progressive roots music. Electrified Digeridoo, heavy slide guitar, soaring flutes and juju rhythms are some of the many ingredients in this Australian sound that’s matured over a decade.
Humble beginnings busking on street corners have led to global tripping and independent CD sales in excess of 100,000 albums. Their past is unique and reflects a sun-drenched coastal lifestyle they call home. Here we find them with their sixth studio album ‘Milk and Honey’ that hints to be the most exciting yet.
Incorporating flavours of dub, electronica, hip-hop, jazz and many forms of world music, for years the OKA sound has defied definition. Instead, perhaps look at the line-up – three characters with varying influences, backgrounds and talents. Stu Boga Fergie (Didgeristu), the big man behind the electronic beats and keys brings raw didgeridoo and vocals inspired by his aboriginal heritage.
Chris Lane plays captivating melody on slide guitar, harmonica and woodwinds, including bamboo flute and sax.
Making up the trio is Samoan-Australian Charlie Zappa – a rhythm specialist with beats of Polynesian fire and deep pocket. Together they blend many pieces that make up the OKA puzzle – a sound and force that touches the heart and feeds the soul.
OKA have showcased their musical flavour throughout Australia, Asia and North America at countless festivals including Earthdance and Joshua Tree in California, Montreal Jazz and Winnipeg Folk in Canada, Green Room Festival Japan and Woodford Folk Festival in Australia. In these arenas OKA has sent unsuspecting crowds into hypnotic frenzies, from moments of sonic purity and positive uprising, to high-energy release. Having such a versatile sound, blending electronica, indigenous, contemporary and roots means they have thrived at the top world, jazz, folk and electronic festivals.
OKA play GLO Dance this Friday at the Uki Hall.
