The Malasimbo Music, Arts, and Kids Festival has announced its second wave of artists and performers. Taking place on March 8 at the historic Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros, the Festival is anticipated to be an exciting experience for guests of all ages, being one of the most celebrated cultural events in the Philippines.
The second wave of artists include Nai Palm, the front woman and guitarist of the Grammy-nominated band Hiatus Kaiyote. Inspired by a range of musical influences — from Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin, to flamenco and Northwest African music — Palm’s is a fixture in Melbourne’s music scene, whose sonic palette spans jazz, funk, and soul.
Laneous, a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is also in the line-up. Known as the former frontman of Kafka, as well as The Family Yah, Laneous is steeped in Brisbane’s funk-soul and nu-jazz community; his music characterized by intricate arrangements and smooth vocals. Also from Brisbane, Tommy Sexton, who will also perform at Malasimbo, describes his music as “vintage future soul, silk funky,” and “post-apocalyptic yacht rock.” Drawing from artists like D’Angelo, Herbie Hancock, and Toto, Sexton is expected to bring charisma and groove to the Festival.
Selah Dub Warriors is a roots dub and reggae group from Cebu City, known for its hypnotic compositions and lyrics promoting peace, love, and unity. The group is part of the “conscious music” movement in the Philippines, referring to themes in Rastafarian culture that address issues of social change, justice, and cultural identity.
In January, Malasimbo announced its first wave of artists, which included legendary DJ and producer François K, Oahu-based reggae artist Mike Love, turntablist DJ Shortkut, and dance music collective Orange Juice Asia.
Founded in 2011, the Festival has celebrated the intersection of music, arts, and nature, offering a diverse range of performances and installations, as well as community engagement through environmental sustainability. For more information about the festival, including the full line-up, schedule, and ticket purchases, visit www.malasimbo.com.