Screening & Performance: Buried Country, Jerikye Williams

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this event may contain the images of people who have passed away. Based on the book by Clinton Walker, this documentary looks at the rich history of Aboriginal country music over six decades and how it has been used to share stories with a wide audience. Featuring rare archival images and recordings, and interviews with musicians such as Jimmy Little, Harry and Wilga Williams, Bob Randall, Lionel Rose and Troy Cassar-Daley, Buried Country offers insight into the rich tradition of Aboriginal country music and represents an important record of First Nations history in Australia. In addition to the screening, this event includes a performance from Wiradjuri singer and guitarist Jerikye Williams. Jerikye Williams is a Wiradjuri man, born in Cowra and living in Queanbeyan on Ngambri/Ngunnawal land. Jerikye is said to have been born with a guitar in his hand and a great love for 1950’s and 60’s rock'n roll. At 21, he embodies the spirit of great artists with effortless musicianship and charisma. A natural showman, he lights up any stage, whether performing classics or his own original songs. Jerikye has been playing live shows in his local region since the end of his high school years originally performing solo or with his aunty Maria Williams’ backing guitar and harmony vocals and since with other well-known artists. This indigenous rocker prowls the stage with mega-bravado. His swagger, chord progressions and blistering guitar reflect the 1960’s rock revolution. Jerikye Williams goes far deeper than teenage impulses by tracing a path from rock ‘n’ roll to jazz, to blues, to the music of pre-colonial Australia and the vibrant musical traditions they carried. Truly an entertaining and enthralling performer that crosses all age groups and genres. ‘The documentary is very powerful and moving, and there are particularly poignant moments that are virtually guaranteed to move the viewer to tears’ – Susan Jarvis, Capital Country News This title is held in the NFSA collection.