Review – Ajak Kwai: Of Cows, Women and War
“Why don’t we talk? Why don’t we talk?”
A raw, intriguing opening to Ajak Kwai: Of Cows, Women and War – Ajak repeats her question, inviting her audience to reflect on the unnecessary violence and loss in war. Amidst the traditional and contemporary blend of Sudanese folk songs and Aussie-Sudanese stylings, she engages her audience with stories of her past and present; from the unimaginable horrors of learning of the deaths of her family and friends in conflict-ridden South Sudan to the struggles and adventures of her everyday life in Australia.
Ajak was without her usual 8-piece Melbourne-based band, but three talented musicians subbed in to back up her emotive lyrics with their energetic rhythms. They might have been slightly under rehearsed, but the impressive improvising provided a lively accompaniment to Ajak’s rich, ethereal voice, transcending effortlessly from haunting traditional ballads to get-up-and-dance afro beats, and transporting the audience from their seats to the dance floor.
Of Cows, Women and War is a highly enjoyable, enlightening evening that will leave you wanting more – a unique experience that is the complete opposite of the usual Fringe offerings. Come back next year please Ajak and bring that band of yours, Adelaide needs more!
