Not Drowning, Waving + George Telek – TABARAN

Fascinated by the expressive rhythms of Papuan music and its post-colonial western influences, the David Bridie-fronted band Not Drowning, Waving visited Papua New Guinea throughout the late 80s. Eventually recording TABARAN in the port town Rabaul with local artists, the album innovatively melded Not Drowning, Waving’s avant-garde soundscape with the harmonies, melodies and musical instruments of Rabaul, led by acclaimed musician Sir George Telek.  

Hailed as an early masterpiece of world music and a true work of artistic collaboration, TABARAN was a landmark album. It saw PNG and Australian musicians merging their cultures harmoniously for the first time, creating a sound that was unlike anything before it. 

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Independence of PNG and the 35th Anniversary of the album, this historic performance features many of the original musicians from the recording, such as Pius Wasi, Emmanuel and Ben Hakalitz, plus an impressive lineup of new talent from PNG and Australia. 

Following sold-out concerts at Sydney Festival, don’t miss your chance to witness music history in this unmissable one-night-only performance.  

‘It's really a privilege to be back together again,’ says Sir George Telek who, together with the musicians of Rabaul, had no idea the album would be so successful when it was recorded 35 years ago. For many Australian music fans, it was their first introduction to Papua New Guinean culture and string band music. Speaking on the changes he's witnessed his nation go through since Independence, Telek said, ‘I feel proud of this 50th anniversary for Papua New Guinea, for Independence. I feel proud carrying, promoting Papua New Guinean music into the international market and in local scenes back in PNG.’ 

‘Tabaran was the most important thing we did as a band – it forged many lifelong friendships and collaborations – and it's an album we're extremely proud of.’ – Not Drowning, Waving 

Praise for TABARAN 

‘Tabaran stands as an ongoing legacy to a cultural exchange 35 years ago that continues to enrich both cultures – and, for the 2000 people who attended on the night, will leave them musically rewarded.’ – Arts Hub 

‘a stunning and joyous reformation.’ – Limelight Magazine 

‘extraordinary rhythmic power… Not Drowning, Waving and George Telek’s Tabaran remain a timeless work that celebrates the beauty of collaboration. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when two worlds come together to learn, share, and create something greater than the sum of their parts. This performance not only revisited a seminal album but reaffirmed its significance as a cultural and musical bridge.’ – Sydney Arts Guide  

About the Artists 

David Bridie is one of the true individualists and innovators of Australian music, carving a unique path through a shifting cultural landscape to remain true to his singular vision and ethics. 

From the global impact of his seminal 1980s and 1990s alt-pop groups Not Drowning, Waving and My Friend The Chocolate Cake to his ongoing work as a solo artist and soundtrack composer, the scale of David’s output and influence are matched by few Australian artists. His contribution was recognised by The Australia Council’s Don Banks Award in 2019, joining a long list of accolades that David has collected across three decades of commitment to his craft and his community.