Soul of Sydney Vivid Special Feat THE STRIDES (Live) & CUMBIAMUFFIN (Live)

THE STRIDES | 9-peice Afro-Roots Powerhouse 

Hailing from Sydney, THE STRIDES have become a new force for afro & roots music. Fronted by Reggae Master Ras Roni from Barbados via London, and Fijian MC Ltl Gzeus, The Strides have delivered their classic sound to crowds across the country, delivering a musical experience that is as powerfully explosive as it is authentic.

With a calling card of powerfully melodic horns, infectious bass lines, easy musings and a magnetic stage presence between its two lead vocalists, the Strides are a 9-piece collective of multitalented songwriters and musicians.

The Strides' music faithfully builds on the foundations of classic roots reggae with a hip-hop edge, forging a sound that brings together modern dance hall, AFRO-BEAT and reggae-pop. The Strides have forged a truly global sound, melding a diversity of cultures and instrumentation under the one universal consciousness.

With two acclaimed albums already under their belt, a European label signing as well as festival appearances across the country, The Strides have graced the stage with the likes of Julian Marley, Tony Allen and Groundation. 

CUMBIAMUFFIN | 12-piece Latin Roots Orchestra

Cumbiamuffin’s wall of sound is unstoppable on the dance floor and with the collective energy of authentic Colombian singers, rapidly becoming one of the most Iconic Sydney’s big orchestras.

Put together by Colombian and Australian musicians, the project has the common vision of introducing the purest sounds of traditional Cumbia to the Australian audiences. Cumbia is the most contagious, joyful rhythm from Latin America, played as a big band orchestra vibe, combining elements of reggae, ragga and roots from the Caribbean, played by some of Australia's finest horn sections.

Since its inception in December 2010, Cumbiamuffin has sold out many well known Sydney venues including Camelot, The Basement, Blue Beat, Club 505, The Metro, Paddington Eastside Arts, Oxford Arts Factory, and performed at number of festivals including Sydney Festival 2017, The Annual Darling Harbour Fiesta, Parramasala Festival and Canberra’s Multicultural Arts Festival.

Cumbiamuffin has also stretched its considerable musical talents to share stages with Sidestepper, Frente Cumbiero, Chiva Gantiva (Colombia), Mucho Mambo (AUS), and Watussi (AUS) amongst others.