At the news of Bob Marley’s untimely death in 1981, musicians Bunna and Madaski formed a band and named it in
honour of one of Marley’s best known, best loved songs- Africa Unite. Thirty years on, with 14 albums and hundreds
of concerts under their belt, Africa Unite still tour Europe and their native Italy playing their own take on the music
that holds an obsessional grip on all in its church Bunna and Madaski are no exception in this regard, since 1981
they’ve been devoted to the genre- dabbling occasionally in hip hop, funk and dubstep.
This eight piece line-up of vocals, two guitars, keys, sax, trumpet, bass and two percussionists has the full, rich range
of the Caribbean sound at its heart. Their lyrics are often political, sometimes playful and sung both in English and
their native Italian. Best known for their sunshine melodies, faultless groove and masterful production, Africa Unite
have rightly earned a cult following on the European roots and reggae scene. They’ve recorded with the artists such
as Kymani Marley, Alborosie, Princess Julianna, Sergent Garcia and are well respected by musicians and music lovers
alike. But then this should come as no surprise as it’s fair to say that any act going strong for over 30 years is getting
something right, and if reports of their live shows are anything to go by, that something is can be seen up close
Monday 11th of April in the intimate settings of Whelan’s of Wexford Street.
TICKETS:
Available for €16.50 from WAV Tickets [lo-call 1890 200 078], €17.50 from Tickets.ie & €15 at the door.
