This Valentines Day, Friday February 14, a unique celebration of the global impact of reggae music comes to South Australia. Featuring the British-Caribbean rastafarian singer and MC Solo Banton in headlining position, Lionhearts features a culturally diverse lineup of singers, MCs, DJs and musicians that link Africa, the Caribbean and Europe through reggae, dub and their British-born contemporary counterpart music styles: drum ‘n bass and jungle.
Solo Banton is a charismatic black Briton and self-described “old raggamuffin” with an impressive catalog of reggae, dub and dancehall recordings and collaborations to his name. With four artist albums under his belt since 2009, Solo is performing in Australia for the very first time, after a string of performances in New Zealand.
Among the talented local support acts is D-Wade, a locally-based Maori DJ who’s love of reggae and dub music runs deep, as it does for many Kiwis. Another, Ras Minano will also be giving the debut performance of his stripped back reggae version of the Hope of Africa Band. Ras migrated from Ghana to Adelaide in 2015 and represents reggae music with west African flavour at Lionhearts.
The remaining performers each lend their own tilt to reggae music. Adelaide’s “reggae ambassador” DJ Sepia is hosting and performing at the event. Adelaide-born with Caribbean roots, he will DJ for both Solo Banton and Wanamaru Style, a Venezuelan reggae singer who has recently landed in Adelaide. Wanamaru Style’s set brings dancehall and reggaeton to the mix, and he will sing some of his songs in Spanish with Latino flair.
The music will intensify when Solo Banton passes the mic to the British-born MC Essbee. Raised in the UK club and rave scene, Essbee will freestyle rap and hype over fast-paced drum ‘n’ bass and jungle selections by local heavyweight producer and DJ, Krita.
The party venue is a shining jewel in Adelaide’s south: Unit Three Collective in Lonsdale. An impressive venue for occasional live entertainment, its primary purpose is brewing and distilling liquor, and a wide range of exceptional locally made beverages will be available at the bar. A food truck will have hot meals available, meaning you can really make Lionhearts your Valentine’s day destination.
So whether you have a date, or you just love reggae music, Lionhearts is poised to provide you with a memorable night out. Let DJ Sepia, Solo Banton and the crew whisk you around the world of reggae music with wildly diverse, thoughtful and energetic performances. The show will be in full production glory, with colourful lighting, a powerful sound system, spacious dancefloor and plenty of comfortable seating for those inclined to chill.
Lionhearts takes place on February 14 from 6pm ‘til midnight at Unit Three Collective, Lonsdale. Limited presale tickets are available via Humanitix. General admission tickets are $40 on the door, accompanied children 12 or under are free.
