The Wailers

The Wailers – Bluesfest Sideshow at The Tanks

Best known as the backing band for arguably one of the greatest and most influential musicians of all time; The Wailers return to Cairns for one night only at The Tanks Arts Centre on Thursday 17th March. With their 2014 show described as the concert experience of the year, fans will be treated to a performance of one of The Wailers legendary albums in its entirety, proving why they are the best living exponents of Jamaica’s reggae tradition.  The audience will choose between Exodus, Survival, Uprising or Legend when purchasing tickets, with the most voted album performed live start to finish alongside many of their top 10 anthems.

Speaking to lead singer Dwayne ‘Danglin’ Anglin about the concept, he added:

“We figured we would give the audience a chance to decide which album they want to hear. A lot of the times we have themed tours that we decide on based on the social political climate. But this time we decided to give the audience a choice which I think people are enthused by and we are enthused by too. I love all four albums and I look forward to playing any of them”

Together with Bob Marley, the Wailers sold in excess of 250 million albums worldwide, and they continue to uphold the legacy of the famous reggae prophet. The enormous power and message of their music is still extremely relevant in today’s society, with their songs uplifting and bringing joy to their audiences across the globe.

“The intention of the music created was to reach a global audience. Unfortunately there are under privileged disenfranchised victims in the world which is mainly what this music speaks to. It’s sad that certain songs in this catalogue are still relevant now. The reality is we try to provide some inspiration where it’s needed and try to motivate people and urge them to carry on in a positive way. There are different beliefs and cultures but we try to let them know that we’re all people. We’re all united. It’s needed, so we provide it.”

“It’s an honour and a privilege every day to see how people react to the music and to listen to different people about how the music affects them and what way it affects them”.

No strangers to The Tanks and Byron Bay, The Wailers return to Bluesfest for four massive performances over The Easter long weekend.

“It’s a great festival; the line-up this year is great. We play four nights and will play a different album each night. D’Angelo is playing and he is one of my favourite artists alive right now. I’m especially excited about seeing D’Angelo as I’ve never seen him perform.”

Close to 35 years since Marley’s death, his legacy and relevance is unmeasurable with The Wailers continuing to attract huge support worldwide. With original member Aston “Family Man” Barrett guiding the ship, The Bass player, Rastafarian and father of 54 (yes, 54 children!) has kept The Wailers alive with his guidance and direction since Bob’s passing.

“He’s a wealth of experience with over 40 years of touring. He’s a great mentor and I’m honoured to learn from him on a daily basis. He’s a great musician; he was the band leader when Bob was alive. He has the experience, he teaches you on stage and off stage. The learning is very positive for me and I’m truly honoured.”

Known as one of Jamaica’s most exciting new singers, Dwayne Anglin lives and breathes music and has been busy devoting his spare time to a solo project which has become a labour of love.

“I try to make use of every second. I’m in the process of a solo album so maybe early next year for a release, but no rush. A lot of my free time is devoted to that which I love. ”

The Wailers last show at Tanks Arts Centre sold-out and it was no surprise that it was declared one of the best concert experiences all year.

“It’s a great venue and Tanks has a great sound; I’m really looking forward to returning. Australia overall is always one of my favourite destinations; I always look forward to singing in Australia”.

The Wailers perform at The Tanks Arts Centre on Thursday 17th March 2016. Doors open 6.30pm, Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets from Ticketlink. More details on Facebook Event Page.

Mitch Sullivan

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