Na-kalamandjarda by Ripple Effect Band

“Na-Kalamandjarda” is a heartfelt anthem that pays homage to Country, the group are also celebrating the beginning of their Northern Territory tour.

This soul-stirring track is a testament to Ripple Effect Band's unique ability to blend rock music with vulnerable storytelling. Melding soulful melodies and rich instrumentation, “Na-Kalamandjarda” weaves a tapestry of emotion and resilience, urging listeners to embrace harmony with the land and nurture its beauty for future generations.

Band member Rona Lawrence says on writing “Na-kalamandjarda”:
“We went camping on Country and hunting at Na-kalamandjarda. When we came home, that night, I woke up and had the song in my mind, it came up into my mind. I couldn’t sleep and I didn’t have a pen and paper, so I texted Jodie all the lyrics of the song. It was 1am in the morning.

When Jodie woke up, she found on her phone the longest text from me. She called me laughing but also so excited. I walked around the corner to her house and that morning we sat together with a guitar and made this song. I wanted to sing about my Country. I wanted to share its beauty. I wanted everyone to feel like they belonged to Country somewhere. To think about how important Country is for us and how we have to look after it. Recognising the past and the ancestors, and thinking of the future for our children.”

“Na-kalamandjarda” is sung between English and Na-Kara, an endangered language spoken by less than 55 people. Reflecting on this reality and the importance of music in strengthening language for future generations, the song’s music video transports viewers to the heart of Na-kara country, weaving in scenes from other locations across Australia to foster a universal connection among viewers and encourage pride in one's country.

Ripple Effect Band are from Maningrida in the Northern Territory of Australia. As the first women in thier community to form a band they have a distinctive sound, beautiful vocals sung in 5 Aboriginal languages with a strong reggae rock backing. Singing songs about life in the top end of Australia, they have a passion about culture and Country and will take you on a journey through Arnhem Land.