L.A. Outback Didgeridoo Blog

New LA Outback Didgeridoo Blog Location

2011-03-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

Hello world! We've moved!

For those who haven't checked out our new location for our didgeridoo blog be sure to jump on over and have a look. The address for the new LA Outback Didgeridoo Blog is http://blog.laoutback.com and you can now keep up with the latest updates from us there. We decided to host our own blog in Wordpress as it gives us much more control over the look and feel of our posts, plus great tools on the backend.

We've already posted some pretty cool articles including news on our didgeridoo lessons on Skype, an interview with Alex Suarez on didgeridoo and sleep apnea, LA Outback's 15 year anniversary in the didgeridoo community, and much more.

Hope you enjoy the new didgeridoo posts at LA Outback's blog and feel free to leave comments on articles you find interesting. We enjoy getting your feedback.

Tracy Chapman, New Beginning (Paris, December 10, 1998)

2010-11-01T15:41:00.000-07:00

Wow! Tracy Chapman playing a Cindi Numina-painted didgeridoo from one of our very first shipments of Australian didges back in 1998. Never saw this video until today and didn't know Tracy had it!

Barry Martin Plays Didgeridoo on Upcoming Alphanaut Album

2009-12-27T08:19:00.000-08:00

Mark Alan of LA Outback just finished recording his debut full length album titled "Out of Orbit". Barry Martin came in to play didgeridoo on one song titled "AL 424-15" and this video is of the recording session done in fall 2009.

Find out more about Mark's project at www.planetalphanaut.com
Follow him on Youtobe at www.youtube.com/planetalphanaut

Will Thoren Yeti Didgeridoos

2009-11-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

Will Thoren is featured on a didjeridu using his very own technique of playing on instruments he's named Yeti Didgeridoos. The Yeti didj was conceived and researched for over a year by Will, meticulously crafting each instrument so the fundamental drone can be paired with a lower drone in the same key by loosening your lips while playing.

Will demos his key of G Yeti didjeridu in LA Outback's Tiki Hut stage. This didgeridoo was made out of a felled cottonwood branch found near his home.

Check out more clips and info on didgeridoo playing at www.laoutback.com

Michael Jackson Plays Didgeridoo For Jake Brown

2009-07-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

When Michael Jackson was here during the summer of 2008 we filmed him teaching professional skateboarder Jake Brown how to play didgeridoo. This clip was from our behind the scenes footage as the MTV camera crews filmed Jake for a reality program.

Visit www.laoutback.com for Michael Jackson CDs and other didgeridoo music

DidgeriDome - Didgeridoo Experience in Joshua Tree California - June 20th and 21st

2009-05-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

DidgeriDome
June 20 and 21, 2009

Didgeridoo Experience
Joshua Tree, California

It's true... a weekend didge fest returns to Joshua Tree!

L.A.Outback welcomes you to a sonic experience that weaves the ancient sound of the didgeridoo with the wondrous "out of this world" vibrational acoustics of the Integratron. For those of you unfamiliar with the Integratron you're in for quite a surprise. This dome-shaped structure is the only all-wood acoustically perfect sound chamber in the U.S. And not only does it offer the most enthralling space for playing musical instruments, but the building has a history, mythos, and following in a class of its own.

Take a moment to visit the Integratron's website, and get your tickets early because this event will sell out quickly as it's limited to 200 people.

Join the gathering of beautiful folks, didgeridoo tones, flutes and drums for the summer solstice! Bring your didge, come for the healing, music and relaxation, and camp under the brilliant night sky.

Tyler Spencer's Primal Tones
Saturday night concert + Sunday 1 hour Workshop
Randy "Malibu Healer" Bruck
Didgeridoo healings inside the Integratron
The Integratron Sound Bath
Saturday & Sunday
Jam Sessions in the 'Tron!
Saturday & Sunday
LA Outback
Didgeridoos, Lessons, and Aboriginal Art
Fire performers Saturday night
Open mike Sunday on the outside stage

Where: Situated on 10 acres at 2477 Belfield Boulevard, Landers, CA 92285. There will be on-site camping, but several inns and motels in Joshua Tree are nearby as well.

REGISTRATION IN ADVANCE
IS REQUIRED

Phone: 760-364-3126

Email: Integratron@gmail.com
Website: www.Integratron.com

Saturday & Sunday
with overnight camping $80
Saturday only 2pm-10pm $40
Sunday only 12noon-4pm $20

Isle of Wight DidgHeadRadio Festival: August 7th – 9th

2009-05-04T16:13:00.001-07:00

Here's some information about a cool new didj fest for those of you across the pond.

The first Isle of Wight DidgHeadRadio Festival from August 7th –9th, 2009

If you are looking for a festival with a difference this summer then head to the Isle of Wight with Red Funnel for the DidgHeadRadio Festival from 7th –9th August. The quirky music festival is the first of its kind to be held on the Island and will showcase the best contemporary didgeridoo and acoustic music from the UK and abroad.

Set at Calbourne Water Mill in the picturesque countryside of the West Wight, the festival boasts an eclectic musical entertainment program. Over the weekend digi devotees can take part in a wide range of interactive workshops, from learning to play the didgeridoo, samba drum or jaw harp to throat singing and human beatboxing.

The festival is very family friendly with children encouraged to join in the musical fun. Guests also enjoy access to the Water Mill, one of the oldest in the country, where you can explore the grounds, row down the stream, have a go at croquet and petanque and witness the traditional milling process.

Tickets are available online at the Red Funnel website and cost £47.50 for an adult weekend camping ticket and £17.50 for a day ticket, including all postage and admin fees.

Visit the official DidHeadRadio Festival site for more info!

For more information on didgeridoo festivals visit www.laoutback.com

Ondrej Smeykal - Solo Didgeridoo at LA Outback

2009-05-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Didgeridoo genius Ondrej Smeykal came by LA Ouback during his recent tour through the western US. We had a great time hanging with him and promoting both of his shows that LA Outback and Chad Butler put together. Here's a clip of a solo didgeridoo piece Ondrej performed in our Tiki Hut, which is becoming a happening spot to perform didj.

You can find heaps of other great clips featuring Ondrej Smeykal over on Youtube. If you want to pick up a copy of Ondrej's Didgeridoo Solo 1 or 2 stop www.laoutback.com to grab a copy.

Singing Sticks Didgeridoo Music Festival

2009-04-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

For anyone reading this blog living in the UK or Europe, here's a didgeridoo Festival we wanted to make you aware of.

Singing Sticks Didgeridoo Music Festival
July 10th, 11th, 12th 2009 in Northamptonshire, England

The Festival will be held at:
The Overstone Scout Camp,
Billing Lane, Overstone, Northampton, NN6 0AF

The venue offers woodland and large flat fields aswell as lots of areas for performances, jams or workshops and there is a large outdoor ampi-theatre with a fire pit for evening performances and get togethers.

Get information at the official website www.singingsticks.co.uk

For more didgeridoo events visit www.laoutback.com

Steve Roach and Hearts of Space Radio

2009-04-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

The first time I remember hearing a didgeridoo was in 1988 on a syndicated radio program called "Hearts of Space". The music, by ambient electronic composer Steve Roach, is now a spacemusic classic titled "Dreamtime Return". And while the didgeridoo playing is a bit sparse on this double CD, it certainly struck a sonic chord in me that left a lasting impression.

Hearts of SpaceThese days I've been in communication with both Steve Roach, as well as the producer of "Hearts of Space", Stephen Hill. For those of you unfamiliar with the work of either of these two very talented and engaging fellas, I recommend that you visit their websites and take in what they have to offer.

I'm a long-time subscriber of "Hearts of Space" online where you can listen to over 700 one hour radio programs on demand. There are several shows dedicated to the didgeridoo, and the website is so easy to navigate. When you've got the time, visit www.HoS.com and hear what I mean.

Dreamtime ReturnSteve Roach has been a huge inspiration to me for many years, and "Dreamtime Return" is still one of my muses. It's the music I'm listening to as I write this, 20 years after hearing it for the first time. Steve has over 30 albums with an international fan base. If you have the chance to see him perform live don't miss it. Every show is completely improvised mixing electronic and acoustic instruments with found objects. His website is robust and you can support him directly by purchasing online while you're there. Visit Steve's site at www.SteveRoach.com

Steve Roach and Stephen Hill provided the original inspiration for my interest in the didgeridoo. This music keeps me somewhat grounded and fairly sane. Stephen distills the genre well by calling it "Slow Music for Fast Times". Thank you both so much.

Good vibes,

Barry
LA Outback
www.laoutback.com

Will plays Eddie Ryan Didgeridoo

2009-03-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

Ondrej Smeykal - 2 Live Shows in Los Angeles!

2009-03-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

Sunday, March 15, 2009
3 PM Workshop, 7 PM Concert
Where: Earth and Sky Lodge
5521 S. Grosvenor Blvd, LA, CA 90066
Phone: 310.306.4960
Venue: www.EarthandSky.info

Thursday, March 19, 2009
8:00 PM Concert
Where: Cornell Winery, 29975 Mulholland Hwy, Cornell, CA 91301
Phone: 310.306.4960
Venue: www.CornellWinery.com

SEATING LIMITED. RESERVE NOW SO YOU DON'T MISS OUT!
Reserve online Click Here or call
L.A.Outback on (818) 985-8359
For more on Ondrej Click Here to visit his website.

L.A.Outback is hosting two shows of uplifting and meditative sounds with didgeridoo wunderkind Ondrej Smeykal. He will also present a workshop around his playing philosophies and techniques at the first of these two dates. Ondrej is a gifted didgeridoo player based from the Czech Republic revered for his unique playing style. This is a rare opportunity to experience Ondrej performing here in southern California.

Both settings are well suited acoustically; one is a yoga studio and the other is an art gallery/wine tasting space. Join us for one or both of his live shows! And don't miss his Workshop on March 15 if you want to be truly inspired, as Ondrej has developed a most unique set of playing techniques and he's willing to share.

Chad Butler is tour managing and he'll be at both gigs as well. Will Thoren is our co-host for the Cornell Winery gig and he'll be opening for Ondrej at that show with his own didge stylings.

William Barton and Will Play Didgeridoo

2009-02-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

LA Outback was thrilled to be visited by William Barton last month when he was in Los Angeles performing with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra at UCLA's Royce Hall.

William Barton has been honored with the title as one of Australia's finest didgeridoo players of traditional style, and the preeminent didgeridoo player in the classical world. Our good friend Will Thoren arranged for us to meet William here at the house and we're totally appreciative of his efforts to bring us together.

Visit www.laoutback.com for exceptional didgeridoos here in the US

Lapse In Didgeridoo Blog Entries

2009-02-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Didgeridoo Enthusiasts,

So there has been a large gap in blog entries, 4 months to be exact. So much happened the later part of 2008 that it was difficult for me to keep up with maintaining the didgeridoo blog posts. Well back at it and will be scouring the web for didgeridoo related news and events.

Thanks for staying tuned and keep on didjin'

Mark
www.laoutback.com

Didgeridoo Customer Plays at California Symphony

2008-09-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

California Symphony
Saturday September 20th
6:30 PM
Todos Santo Plaza
Downtown - Concord, California

This isn't necessarily just a didgeridoo event, but one of our customers is participating and wanted to help support them. Looks like it should be a fun outing so bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the afternoon listening to music including didgeridoo playing.

For more information visit www.californiasymphony.org

For didgeridooo and didgeridoo gear visit www.laoutback.com

LA Outback at Didgeridoo Jam at the Neighborhood Cup in Orange County, California

2008-08-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

LA Outback was proud to join in with Karen Greeley to co-host the latest didgeridoo jam at The Neighborhood Cup coffee house in Aliso Viejo, California.

The didjeridu jam session was the third event of a monthly meeting of didj players at every skill level, getting together to play, visit and share pointers on playing the didgeridoo. The session was held on July 26th, 2008 and will hopefully be an ongoing monthly event there as long as The Neighborhood Cup coffee house is willing to have it there.

Karen was kind enough to invite LA Outback down to help out with some beginner players that were going to be attending. Both Barry and I were very excited to participate and see some familiar faces.

We've set up a gallery of his images in Flickr to share with those interested in checking out the afternoon of good coffee and didgeridoo vibes.

Check out the Didgeridoo Jam gallery in Flicker
Visit www.laoutback.com to see our selection of Australian Aboriginal didgeridoos

100,000 Catholics Gather for Youth Event in Sydney

2008-07-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

News from the Associated Press for July 15, 2008

Okay, I know this on the surface doesn't appear to have anything to do with didgeridoo, and I'm in no way endorsing the Catholic relegion, but when I read into the article I noticed a quote from Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Rudd addressed the crowd by acknowledged the Aborigines as Australia's original owners and read welcomes to pilgrims in various languages, including Italian, French, Korean, the Philippines' Tagalog and Bahasa Indonesia. This is a continuing extension of good will after his "Sorry Day" speach earlier this year in which he acknowledged the wrong doings of the Australian government in their handling of the countries indigenous people.

Aborigines in traditional clothing and white body paint danced and chanted to the strains of a didgeridoo. I'm trying to find out who the didj player was just out of curiosity so if any one knows pass the word on.

DidgHead Radio Festival - Instow, Devon in the UK

2008-07-09T12:11:00.000-07:00

DidgHead Radio Festival 2008

1st - 3rd August 2008
Tapeley Park, Instow, Devon
United Kingdom

Just ran across this didgeridoo festival site online and wanted to make a post about it. For those of you over in the UK or Europe there's still time to pick up your favorite didgeridoo and make the trek.

Here's a brief excerpt from their site:

"The aim of the festival, past and present, is to bring to the public the best of new UK and World didgeridoo music in all its forms.

The festival seeks to display didgeridoo music and didgeridoo playing styles ranging from its origins as a ceremonial instrument in Northern Australia, to its inclusion into almost every musical genre and context."

Looks like they are going to have some pretty cool players this year including Frank Heinkel, Mike Edwards, Kev Howard, Dubravko Lapaine and many more.

Visit the official DidjHead Radio Festival site for more information at www.anticfestivals.co.uk

Didgeridoo Player Ron Crose, From Austin Texas

2008-07-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

As a resource for didgeridoo sales here in the US, we always get customers asking how they can connect with other players, or find didgeridoo instructors in their area. I've begin to seek out players online with websites to collect them here on this blog to make it easy for people to one another. Here's my first entry.

Ron Crose from Austin Texas

Ron has earned respect among both the didgeridoo and world music communities. He has a true gift of playing the didj and has a tremendious passion for sharing the traditions of the didjeridu.

He has performed in numerous music festivals, taught at elementary schools, shared the stage or studio with many musicians, and loves to share his knowledge by holding workshops, classes.

He offers group classes, workshops, and private lessons which are offered throughout the year in the Austin, Texas area and are to be announced.

To visit Ron Crose's website click here

Ryka Demonstrates Didgeridoo Animal Sounds

2008-07-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

For those of you out there wishing to learn how to create those unique animal sounds on your didgeridoo we just posted this great video on Youtube to give you some ideas. Ryka demonstrates Bookaburra, Dingo, Kangaroo, Crocodile, Boomerang and more. This is should give you some basic ideas that you can apply to your didgeridoo to accent your basic drone. Remember it's all about your own unique ideas and playing style so just have fun and let your mind and mouth create some great new sounds.

Happy didjin'
www.laoutback.com

Didgeridoo Playing Could Improve Sleep Apnea

2008-06-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

Sleep Study featuring apnea sufferers the didgeridoo.
Courtesy of radiologist "Not Totally Rad's" Blog

This clinical trial by Puhan et al was conducted in Switzerland, far from this ancient instrument's origin in Australia. Somehow the authors were able to convince 25 Swiss patients with sleep apnea to play the didgeridoo. Fourteen of these 25 played the instrument for 4 months, while the 11 controls were placed on a waiting list. The bottom line:

Regular playing of a didgeridoo reduces daytime sleepiness and snoring in people with moderate obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and also improves the sleep quality of partners

Severity of disease, expressed by the apnoea-hypopnoea index, is also substantially reduced after four months of didgeridoo playing

As a radiologist, I spend most of my work days up to my clavicles in high-tech equipment. I therefore relish all the more avocations, such as folk music and hiking, that I can enjoy with low tech gear far from the power grid. Therefore, it's a pleasing thought that a $94 plastic didgeridoo might replace a $1500 CPAP machine in some patients.

On another note, perhaps Switzerland is not such an unlikely place for this particular clinical trial at all. If anything, people who have already been playing alphorns for the past 1,800 years should be naturals at the didgeridoo.

For more information on didgeridoos contact www.laoutback.com

Pablo Cunqueiro Takes An LA Outback Didgeridoo On A Global Walkabout

2008-06-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

LA Outback's employee, Pablo Cunqueiro recently traveled from Egypt to Italy with family including his brother Fernando (in photo). He knew while he was away he would definitely want to do some didgeridoo playing. Carrying around a heavy eucalyptus didj would have been too cumbersome so he asked about taking one of our Modern Didgeridoos.

We all thought it would be cool for him to take the style called "Walkabout", which only seemed appropriate, and take some photos along the way to document it's travels, or walkabout.

We've set up a gallery of his images in Flickr to share with those interested in seeing Pablo and the didj on their journey. See Pablo travel from the pyramids of Luxor to the canals of Venice with his trusty didj in tow.

Check out the Walkabout Didgeridoo gallery in Flicker
Visit www.laoutback.com to see our didjs including the Walkabout

Didj 'n Beat Fest: Didgeridoo Festival in Austria coming August 23, 2008

2008-06-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

Greetings all out in the didgeridoo world! I just ran across information for another International Didgeridoo Festival and I wanted to let everyone know about it.

This fest is located in Schlossberg, Austria and is coming late summer. The Didgeridoo Festival has been going on since 2000 and judging from the photos on their site, it looks like a pretty wild time. Unfortunately both the offical site and their Myspace pages are written in German so I can't tell you a whole lot about them, but you can at least get an idea of the vibe they have built for you to enjoy.

So if you plan on being in Europe come August 23rd, make sure to pack your didgeridoo and join them in the festivities.

For more information visit wither the official webpage www.didgeridoo-festival.at
Or check out their Myspace Page www.myspace.com/didgeridoo_festival
For information on US didgeridoo festivals visit our site www.laoutback.com

Didgeridoo CD: Stephen Kent's New Work "Living Labyrinths"

2008-06-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

Living Labyrinths is an improvised Solstice journey, a song of the moment with original real time processing designed and conceived for solo didjeridu by Gregory T. Kuhn and performed live by Stephen Kent, solo, on Didjeridu, Percussion and Processing. Living Labyrinths is the product of a series of unplanned conditions all lining up synchronously on the evening of the Summer Solstice, 2005 in Oakland, California’s Chapel of the Chimes - a mausoleum, designed by a series of luminary architects including Julia Morgan, that houses the remains of over 300,000 people.

The disc includes some amazing atmospheres that accompany Stephen's dynamic didgeridoo playing. There are some really unusual sounds that flow through out which make for nice surprises and the pieces develop. For those looking for more of Stephen's unique solo style, this disc has a number of pieces that you'll love as well.

To hear an MP3 sample or to purchase Stephen Kent's Living Labyrinths visit www.laoutback.com

Mike Jackson Plays "Steam Train" Didgeridoo Solo

2008-06-14T08:05:00.001-07:00

Here is the second solo didgeridoo piece that Mike Jackson played while visiting LA Outback. This piece is titled Steam Train which was named by some friends of his in Europe for it's fast paced, highly rhythmic playing style.

Mike is a pretty amazing didgeridoo player and we're thrilled to be able to showcase this video which was shot back in the LA Outback tiki hut. He's played didj all over Australia at various festivals and clubs, but mid 2008 was his first time ever to the USA. His visit here included stops in Seattle and Denver as well where he performed, gave lectures and workshops. We're hoping to get Mike and his band Didgeridoo Dingo back in 2009 for the Australia Fair LA festival we'll be throwing here in Los Angeles.

To purchase Mike's didgeridoo solo CD visit www.laoutback.com

Karl Kalbaugh on Myspace: Electronic Music Composer with Didgeridoo

2008-06-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to point everyone to a new Myspace page with some great compositions featuring didgeridoo. The space is owned by Karl Kalbaugh who lives on the Eastern seaboard of the US and has been composing and playing didj for well over a decade.

Karl released his debut recording "Terra Nova" back in 2000, a self produced work featuring 10 cuts written and arranged in Karl's studio. A piece from the album called "Nocturne" is currently represented in his playlist but it appears he'll be rotating his works to keep the set fresh, so keep checking in to see what new works might be represented. Karl's site also features some of the didjs he's crafted from native hardwoods.

Karl's music incorporates beautiful piano melodies with grand washes of strings, didgeridoo and percussion. His work accented by is very cinematic and inspire great landscapes of far off lands. My favorites are "History" and "Outbound".

Check out Karl's work at www.myspace.com/karlkalbaugh
For more didj music visit www.laoutback.com

Mike Jackson Plays Didgeridoo Solo "Control Freak"

2008-06-13T10:08:00.001-07:00

Mike Jackson visited us here at LA Outback a week ago for a weekend didj series including performance, lecture and workshop. Mike is an accomplished and well respected didgeridoo player from the Blue Mountains just west of Sydney and has been playing didgeridoo for over 10 years. When he's not playing didgeridu solo, he's performing with his band or working as an archaeologist in search of ancient Aboriginal sites near his home.

For those who were unable to attend the events LA Outback hosted for Mike, we will be posting them on Youtube and sharing them with you here on our blog. This will include excerpts from the performance and his solo presentations of "Control Freak" and "Steam Train".

For more information on didgeridoo related happenings, check out the events page at www.laoutback.com for more information or stay tuned to our blog.

Jammin Tree Didgeridoo Festival in Central California: August 15, 16, 17 2008

2008-06-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

Jammin Tree Didj Fest

The 8th annual JT Didgefest is an International gathering of the didgeridoo community. Didgeridoo players and performers, hand drummers, and anyone interested in indigenous music from around the world are encouraged to attend. Concerts, lessons and workshops are scheduled throughout all the days. Vendors will also be on hand offering some of the best instruments and handcrafted wares available.

August 15, 16 & 17th 2008

Didgeridoo Festival Headquarters
49522 Road 426
Oakhurst, CA. 93644

Visit the official JT Didgeridoo Festival Site

Spirit Alive by Didgeridoo (yidaki) player Kristian Benton

2008-05-29T17:28:00.001-07:00

This is a cool animated video our buddy Kristian Benton that I just ran across on Youtube. Kristian created this work to promote a cut from his latest didgeridoo CD Spirit Alive. The song is a beautiful melody for didgeridoo, guitar and vocals and the video incorporates images of Aboriginal paintings, the natural surroundings near his home and other Australian icons.

Kristian is such a talented guy not only as a musician, but also a crafter of fine highly sought after didgeridoos (also known as yidaki). We're always happy to do what we can to support him in anyway we can and had the pleasure of meeting up with Kristian Benton and his wife while visiting Bellingen, Australia back in 2006.

To pick up a copy of the Kristian Benton CD Spirit Alive check out www.laoutback.com as well as many other didgeridoo CDs covering numerous genres.

A Version of Didgeridoo History: By Ed Drury

2008-05-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

Read an interesting study on the history of the didgeridoo and it's slow introduction to modern culture. Written by Ed Drury, a multi instrumentalist, composer, teacher, instrument maker and author living in Portland, Oregon. Here is just a quick introduction to the article but visit our website to read the complete article.

"When I talk about the history of the didgeridoo, I'm talking about the awareness of non-Aboriginal people of an instrument. The greater history is really only known by a relatively small number of people - the traditional owners. The traditional owners history is far older and can not be told by outsiders. It perhaps can be told to outsiders, but not by them. This is because the culture the didgeridoo comes from has its own way of keeping history and of passing on information. Our way is different, and in that different way I can only speak of what has been reported about the instrument since knowledge of it spread beyond the safe keeping of the traditional owners.

Information about the didgeridoo came to the world in stages or "waves."

These waves were: discovery, anthropological studies, appropriation by contemporary musicians, instrument sales and finally, internet discussion lists and web pages. With each wave came different aspects or "spins" on the information which has taken on a life of its own."

Visit www.laoutback.com for the complete article

Visit Ed Drury's website for more information on his history, music and studies.

Ash Dargan Tour Schedule: Didgeridoo Concerts for Summer 2008

2008-05-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

Ash Dargan is an indigenous Australian didgeridoo player and recording artist. His music is a great combination of contemporary world beats and traditional didgeridoo playing styles. His live performances are very diverse and engaging including his presentation of "Territory", a multi media journey into the mythological world of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia

If you want to catch this master didgeridoo performer live here are Ash Dargan's live dates for summer 2008.

June 24, 2008
Washington, DC
"Pacific Night", A Gala hosted by The Australian Enbassy at The National Geographic Society
ASH DARGAN's "TERRITORY: Journeys into Aboriginal Dreamtime"
Embassy of Australia
1601 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington DC 20036
PH: 202.797.3383
ian.whitney@dfat.giv.au

June 26 - June 30, 2008
Pennsylvania
Kennett Square/West Chester County area
To schedule or request individual or small group workshops and lessons with ASH DARGAN
Contact: Jessie
PHONE: 610.444.6333 jessiecocks@comcast.net

July 12th, 2008
Nederland, CO - West of Boulder, CO
Benefit Concert to support Grandmother Moon and Shooting Star Lodges
7:30pm
Levels: $45/$55/$65
Registration: Marie at 303-258-9263
or e-mail: grandmothermoonlodge@earthlink.net

July or August, 2008
Ft. Collins, CO
Date TBA
IN NATURE , new live solo performance
Friday Evening “After Hours” Courtyard Concerts
Ft Collins Museum, 5-7 p.m.
2—Mathews St. ( 2 blocks from Old Town, In Library Square)
Info and tickets: kdoyle@fcgov.com or call 970.221.9768

For other exciting didgeridoo related events and performances visit www.laoutback.com

Didgeridoo Player Xavier Rudd: North American Show Dates 2008

2008-05-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Just got word of Xavier Rudd's upcoming US show dates for summer 2008. If you've never seen this amazing didgeridoo player live then you are really missing out. His style mixes contemporary didjeridu playing with very contemporary pop/rock melodies and powerful, thought provoking lyrics.

Xavier really is a one man band as he plays percussion, beat box, guitar and effects all while playing didgeridoo. Don't miss out if you are in one of the areas where he'll be performing. Check back often as we'll be posting more dates as they become available.

08/29/08 Aspen, CO • Jazz Aspen Labor Day Festival

Tickets & Information

09/01/08 Seattle, WA • Bumbershoot Festival
Tickets & Information

09/28/08 Austin, TX • Austin City Limits Festival • Zilker Park
Tickets & Information

Awesome Didjeridu CD: Ondrej Smeykal Didgeridoo Solo 2

2008-05-21T10:17:00.001-07:00

Didgeridoo Solo II

by Ondrej Smeykal

The most anticipated new CD to hit the didgeridoo scene in many years! I'm writing this as I have my first listen and I couldn't be more pleased. Ondrej has been playing the didgeridoo for over ten years. His first CD wowed the didge community, and this one's gonna create an epic fan base for Ondrej. No one else plays didgeridoo like this! And if this CD doesn't stagger your sonic imagination then your probably dead. The four-fold cover is a didgipack made from recycled paper with artwork stone-printed by hand. Ondrej has also autographed each copy we have in gold leaf ink.

This CD spent weeks in my player as I couldn't get enough of it. To find our more about Ondrej visit his site www.smeykal.com/eng

To purchase both Ondrej's discs Didgeridoo Solo, and Didgeridoo Solo II visit www.laoutback.com for more info.

Barunga Didjeridu & Aboriginal Cultural Festival: June 6 - 9 2008 in Katherine, NT Australia

2008-05-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hear the stories and learn the culture of the Indigenous people.

The annual Barunga Festival is held in this remote Aboriginal community over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend and is one of the major and longest-running Indigenous community festivals in the Northern Territory. The festival showcases contemporary indigenous musicians, including didgeridoo players, from the Territory in a battle-of-the-bands event on the Saturday night and a full concert on the Sunday with some of the Territory’s top indigenous bands. There’s also a sports program that runs throughout the weekend and attracts participants from remote communities throughout the Territory.

Cultural activities include traditional didjeridu workshops and performances, traditional dance, arts and crafts demonstrations and exhibitions, bush tucker tastings and spear throwing are all regular elements of the festival. You can purchase art direct from the local artists.

Visitors can camp in the community during the alcohol-free festival and interact with residents who will share their stories and culture.

June 6 - 9 2008

Katherine, Northern Territory,

Australia

Visit the Barunga Festival site for further details

Also visit www.laoutback.com for more didgeridoo event info.

Didgeridoo Featured in Future Guitar Hero Franchise?

2008-05-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

File this one securely in the "Rumor Mill" category. I just ran across a small blurb in an online Music Industry journal that the computer gaming company Activision is working on a new expansion package for their acclaimed Guitar Hero franchise. According to this article Activision is considering including a few wind instruments to the line up including, are you ready, didgeridoo. If true, the game should be ready by early 2009.

We'll have to wait and see if this one is true or not. If it actually comes to be, this could be very cool combo for us didjeridu players who also happen to be gamers.

Ganga Giri Live Didjeridu Performance

2008-05-15T13:08:00.001-07:00

Check out our buddy Ganga Giri, electronic didgeridoo wizard, performing a killer show at one of his recent live gigs!

For more information on Ganga Giri visit his site www.gangagiri.com

To purchase Ganga Giri CDs visit www.laoutback.com

World Music Festival: Featuring Didgeridoo Performances by Ash Dargan & Mike Jackson

2008-05-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

You are all invited to attend the 2008 Colorado World Music Gathering held near Dacono. This year’s event will be a one day outing. All are welcomed, from the curious to the beginner to the professional. At this year’s gathering we are including the didgeridoo, ethnic flute and drum, tribal & fire dance communities. All pertinent info is now posted on the Yahoo Group (link in right column). Volunteers are welcome. Please use the Yahoo Group page as your primary vehicle for event communications. One point of reference will reduce confusion, increase response time and prevent info from getting lost.

Saturday, June 7, 2008
12:00 PM to Midnight

To find out more about Ash Dargan please visit his home page.

For more didgeridu events in the US check out the LA Outback Events page.

Didgeridoo Tribe Online Community

2008-05-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a great resource for all you didgeridoo players out there looking to connect with others. Check out the Didgeridoo Tribe which is a cool site featuring over a hundred players from all around the United States. Create an account, log in, post messages and find out what other didjeridu players are up to. You may even find other didjers in your local area to jam with.

Go to www.didgeridootribe.com for more info and account creation.

LA Outback's Didgeridoo Myspace Page

2008-05-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

Check out LA Outback’s MySpace space we also hope to develop over time as a hub to bring fellow didjers closer together.

Our Myspace didgeridoo page, combined with LA Outback's Didgeridoo blog, when fully underway, will hopefully be your way to connect. You'll be able track down other didj payers in your area, find a didjeridu instructor or find out about the latest didj happenings. We are always getting didjeridu players asking us if we know how to connect them with other didjers and with the broad scope of Myspace and the blogging community, this should be the perfect way to do it!

And if you have a MySpace site, let's take the time to add each other as friends!

New Solo Didgeridoo CD by Jake Duncan

2008-05-09T13:57:00.000-07:00

Sound Trigger's Memory is the title of this new CD by Jake Duncan in Oregon. At only 18 years old, Jake delivers solo didgeridoo riffs with confident yet soulful echoes of Ondrej Smekal and Tyler Spencer. Not an easy thing to do, but his raw talent and a professional approach to the recording and mastering allows this freshman effort to truly shine.

Jake tells us, "I have been playing didjeridu since I was 11 years old. I feel deeply privileged to have met some amazing people and didge players through this instrument and wish to thank them for being so open to sharing with me their techniques, advice, friendship, and support." Congrats, Jake, and I love the title as well.

Listen to and buy the Jake Duncan CD Sound Triggers Memory here!

Recent Didgeridoo Happenings for May 2008

2008-05-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

May is shaping up to be a great month for didgeridoo players. First, there are so many performances; from Ganga Giri to Tyler Spencer to Stephen Kent all over the west coast. Plus, Mike Jackson is flying in from Sydney to perfom a concert and advanced playing workshop right here at L.A.Outback. All this month! Visit our Calendar Page for full details on these events and more.

Tjupurru from Brisbane, Australia, blew into L.A. last week for gigs at The House of Blues and Temple Bar, as well as a guest spot on renowned radio stations KCRW and Indy106. Tjupurru plays the Didjeribone with electronic effects and is a protege of Charlie McMahon, the instrument's inventor. Tjupurru is a helluva nice fella with a big personality and he really grooves on stage which gets everyone up and dancing. Watch a high quality video of his KCRW gig.

Lastly, I've just put a phat pile of new didgeridoos on the site so have a look. There's some truly rare ones as well. We currently have nearly 300 eucalyptus didgeridoos in stock so let us know if you're looking for something not listed on our website. And if you live here in southern California stop by and try 'em all!

Good vibrations,

Barry

Tree Man Gathering: Didgeridoo and Drum Festival; July 11th-13th, 2008

2008-05-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

I just ran across the website for a brand new didgeridoo festival being held on the east coast. Check out the official Tree Man Gathering website. If you enjoy the primal sounds of didgeridoo, drums, and other indigenous world music instruments, then this festival is for you!

Their first annual gathering will be held July 11th, 12th, and 13th, 2008. Festivities will be located at the stunningly beautiful Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca, New York. You will have the opportunity to meet other didgeridoo and drum enthusiasts, participate in workshops, listen to concerts in a modern pavilion, browse arts and crafts, and enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing.

For additional didgeridoo events check out LA Outback's events page.

FREE Didgeridoo Class: Saturday, May 24, 2008

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Learn all of the basic playing techniques including animal sounds, creating rhythms and circular breathing. This class is for all ages and it's heaps of fun. If you don't have a didgeridoo then you can borrow one from us, no worries. Length of class is about 1 hour. All ages welcome, in fact, bring along all your family and friends! A happy pup named "Dingo" will greet you at the door. Stay for a bit after the class and check out all the new didgeridoos and gear.

Saturday, May 24, 2008
3:00 to 4:00 PM

Classes are held at L.A.Outback's canyon home located up on "Dingo Mountain" in Studio City, CA.

Visit www.laoutback.com for more info.

Deadly Didgeridoo Duet!

2008-05-07T15:36:00.001-07:00

Check out this video featuring Jeremy Donovan and Ryka Ali as they improvise a 7 minute didgeridoo duet on LA Outback!

13th Annual In-Didj-In-Us Didgeridoo Gathering: August 8, 9, 10, 2008

2008-05-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

A 3-day campout with workshops, jams, performances, crafting, vending, sharing, and as much fun as you can shake your stick at. Hosted on private land. Totally free. Vegetarian meals provided. Attendance is limited to about 300 people, so reservations are accepted and appreciated. No booze and no dogs help keep the vibe safe and mellow. Totally volunteer and donation supported so bring your own ideas, props, towels, toys, camping gear, instruments, etc.

August 8, 9, 10, 2008
This is the oldest and most gracious gathering of didgeridoo players and beautiful spirits in the U.S.

Hosted by Chad Butler and his family in Oregon. It's all about community.
Where: Private land in Scio, Oregon
Admission: Free, but please reserve ahead.
Info: www.BhumSiva.com

For information on additional didgeridoo festivals visit LA Outback's events page.

Mike Jackson Concert & Workshop at L.A.Outback: Saturday, May 31 & Sunday, June 1

2008-05-07T13:51:00.000-07:00

This will be Mike's first trip to the States and we're stoked to host his concert and workshop right here at LA Outback's canyon home in the hills above Studio City, CA. Mike is arguably one of the most innovative and accomplished didgeridoo players in the world. His mastery of the instrument allows him to explore tone, texture and rhythm at speeds and in ways that are totally unique. To hear him play is to experience a connection to Australia's myriad untouched lands where the spirit and heart can still reside with a certain degree of peace.

Seating is very limited: 20 people for the concert and 15 people for the workshop, so reserve today or visit our Calendar Page for full details and online reservations.

Concert: Saturday, May 31
6:30 PM Reception
7:00 PM Mike's Rock Art Digital Slde Show
Intermission
8:00 PM Concert

Advanced Playing Workshop: Sunday, June 1
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Not for beginners, this workshop is for those that are ready to discover the secrets of speed, structure, and articulation. Limited to 15 people.

G'Day Didgeridoo Folk

2008-05-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings all,

This is Barry over at LA Outback and I want to welcome you all to my new didgerdioo blog. Here I'll be commenting on all the cool stuff I've sussed out on the web pertaining to this amazing musical instrument. I'll be hoping to post everything from the latest didgeridoo events, CD reviews, festivals and also special offers at our online shop.

I'm hoping that this little spot on the internet can become a hub to keep everyone informed as to what is going on out there in the didgeridoo world and bring everyone in the community one step closer together.

Peace and enjoy!

Barry

"Walk softly and carry a loud stick"