Performance Times
5pm, Sunday
Lakeview
Overview
Azadoota’s founder Robin Zirwanda comes from Iraq, where the indigenous Assyrians trace their ancestors back 7000 years. Singing catchy originals in his native Assyrian Aramaic, Robin leads a group of Assyrian musicians from across the globe. Celebrating their heritage, the band perform in costumes inspired by their ancient royal ancestors, while on piano, 14-year-old Josh represents a renaissance of their ancient culture.
Known for their bright contemporary style and adapting traditional rhythms for today’s dance floors, Azadoota have proved to be a favourite on the festival scene for almost three decades, delivering an Assyrian extravaganza of percussive dance-rock worldbeat.
Visit their web site.
Reviews
"If one were to pick a single act that sums up the Womad spirit, it would probably be the Australian Iraqi party band Azadoota." - THE GUARDIAN
"Infectious, foot-tapping, hand-clapping, body-whirling slice of exotic rhythms" THE AUSTRALIAN
"We watched (the music video) five times in a row and then we caught ourselves humming the melody or singing it and laughing about it for the next two days" - THE ASSYRIAN JOURNAL
"Out in the wider community, it is likely that if people have heard of Assyrians, if they know anything about our people, it’s because of the work of the incredible band Azadoota.” - THE YOUNG ASSYRIANS PODCAST
"The crowds at our folk festivals are up and dancing when they start. One of the best world music sounds I’ve heard!” - David De Santi, Artistic Director Illawarra Folk Festival & Peak Festival
