Garrangali Band facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Garrangali Band
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| Origin | East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Australia |
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| Years active | 2009–present |
| Labels | Independent |
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The Garrangali Band, also known as Garrangali, is an Aboriginal Australian music group. They come from a small community called Baniyala in East Arnhem Land, which is in the Northern Territory of Australia.
The name Garrangali means "home of the crocodile" in the Yolngu language. The band often sings some of their songs in this language. Their music style is a mix of reggae and ska. Sometimes, their music is called "saltwater reggae" or "saltwater ska." This name shows their connection to the coastal areas where they live.
The Band's Journey
The Garrangali Band started making music in 2009. They were quickly noticed and were nominated for the Emerging Artist award at the National Indigenous Music Awards 2009.
In 2010, they had a big win at the National Indigenous Music Awards 2010. Their first album, Crocodile Nest, won "Album of the Year." Their song "Sea Rights" also won "Song of the Year."
Music and Messages
The band's songs are very important. They sing about their land, Aboriginal culture, and the rights of Indigenous people. Their music helps share their stories and traditions with others.
Garrangali Band first performed in Sydney in mid-2010. They played at the Old Manly Boatshed in Manly. In 2018, they were part of the 20th anniversary celebration of the Garma Festival of Traditional Cultures. This festival is a big event that celebrates Yolngu culture.
Recent Activities
On 26 January 2020, which is Australia Day, the band performed at the Art Gallery of South Australia. This was part of the Tarnanthi exhibition, a special art event. They performed alongside another popular group called Electric Fields.
In August 2020, Garrangali Band released a new song called "One Voice." They also started working on their second album, which will have the same name. These new songs feature traditional Aboriginal instruments like the yidaki (a type of didgeridoo) and clapsticks. They also include their traditional clan songs, known as manikay.
The song "One Voice" celebrates the way of life of the Yolngu people in the Blue Mud Bay area. It shares their culture and connection to the land.
Touring Arnhem Land
In October 2020, the Garrangali Band went on a tour across Arnhem Land. They performed in many small communities, called outstations, and also in larger towns like Maningrida and Ramingining. Their tour ended with a performance in Yirrkala. They traveled a long way, showing their music to many people in their home region.
Band Members
As of October 2020, there are 12 members in the Garrangali Band. Some of the key members include:
- Makungun Brendan Marika, who plays keyboards. He is from Yirrkala.
- Sean Marika, Brendan's son, who plays the drums.
- Mudinymudiny Nicholas Guyula, who is the lead singer.
The band manages itself and is not part of a big music company. This means they have a lot of control over their music and message.
