Chocolate Strings formed in May 2006 for a charity benefit for West End Community House. They began their life as a 3-piece with acoustic guitar, vocals and percussion playing chilled out acoustic sets in small venues such as The Forest in West End. Since then they have expanded to include the funky bass skills of Dave Gofton and the effects-laden epic reggae lead guitar stylings of Orlando the “Wailin’ Venezualanâ€. They have also recently included the sublime lyrical rhymes of the one MC P-Ta Potta, adding a whole new fresh and funky flavour to any track they lay down. Aight.They have been described as one of Brisbane’s finest purveyors of grooved out dub music, playing a Polynesian influenced blend of reggae, dub and soul with a twist of funk. Singer Ofa Fanaika (whose name translates as “love†from her native Tongan) has previously performed as a solo artist and has also appeared with Gorgonzola, Morganics, Diva Station and Bertha Control to name a few. Her distinctive deep soulful voice and reggae flavours always inspire an amazing crowd response – she has been compared favourably to such artists as Tracy Chapman and Nina Simone. Percussionist Kasper Skou has performed extensively with a wide variety of roots musicians such as Mick Hart and Carus and the True Believers. He was also one half of Dom and Kasper, playing gigs up and down the east and west coasts. As percussionist for Mick Hart, he has played throughout Australia and Europe, including a support spot for Taj Mahal. Guitarist Al Skinner has used his music to promote social change and environmental awareness, and this passion is shared by the whole band. .
They have played at venues such as The Troubadour, The Zoo, The Step Inn, The Rails in Byron Bay, The Forest, Ric's, Tongue 'n' Groove and Uber as well as art openings, parties, charity functions etc. They have shared the stage with artists like Dubmarine, The Lowdown, Fyah Walk, Grassrooots Street Orchestra, Toby, Juzzie Smith, Heavyweight Champion, Mojo Webb, Dakuta, Matt Nelson, Miltonia, Dom Cooley, Girl With Cake and 8ball Aitken. They have also supported Alf from home and away. Fuck yeah.For bookings and management contact:
Emily Jones
[email protected]
