Growing up immersed in the traditional practices, customs and stories of Vanuatu, singer-songwriter Tio’s interest in music came from early encounters with the traditional tam tam slit-drum and songs in his Daakaka language. Later, when living in Port Vila, he honed his musical talent as part of the local roots-reggae scene.
While his storytelling comes through his spellbinding vocals, he is also a talented multi-instrumentalist, switching between violin, ukulele, guitar, tam tam and bush bass. Tio is driven by a passion to mix traditional and contemporary beats and styles, while using modern instrumentation and production to paint a story of his experiences living between Vanuatu and Australia.
Take a listen to some of Tio below:
Tio’s debut album Sorousian, released in 2020, received a 5-star review in Songlines magazine, as well as international acclaim and radio play. Tio is in Australia playing at Cygnet Folk Festival and WOMAD, but on Fri 16th Feb will be performing for us here at George Lane!
Tio will be supported on the night by ‘The Black Sistaz’. Melbourne-based daughters of the late August Rumwaropen, of the legendary Black Brothers Band of West Papua, The Black Sistaz, are also backing vocalists for Australian Reggae Roots band, Blue King Brown. Uplifting island reggae and soul meets traditional sounds, language and sweet harmonies, which transport the audience to another realm. Powerhouse vocals, conscious lyrics and dynamic energy culminate to give you an experience you will never forget.
Doors open at 7pm and tickets can be purchased below:
Tio (Vanuato) Tickets, George Lane, St Kilda | TryBooking Australia
Ticket Prices + BF
See you there :)