Mark Simeon Ferguson’s Where Emus Roam the Streets is the first jazz release from the 2022 ABC Composer Commissions Fund, created to support new Australian music from emerging and diverse voices. Where Emus Roam the Streets is a lyrical contemporary jazz album inspired by the dramatic vistas, ‘ghost towns’ and extraordinary people of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges on Adnymathanha country. Mark’s connection to the area is through his Aunt Jan and Uncle Chris Ferguson who are deeply connected to the community having lived in Beltana for decades. Through them he met senior Adnymathanha man
Terrence Coulthard — whose ‘Welcome Song’ features on the album.

In preparation for this project, Mark spent days driving, running, walking and sitting in the Northern part of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges between Parachilna and Iga Warta. Where Emus Roam the Streets was inspired by these experiences, alongside extensive research and conversations with members of the community. The album’s nine new pieces explore the beauty and hardship of Adnymathanha country and reflect on the lives of its people, the collision of cultures, and Mark’s own experiences.

The ensemble features young women all starting to hit their stride on the Australian jazz scene: drummer Kyrie Anderson, bassist Bonnie Aué, pianist Ciara Ferguson (heard here on vibraphone) and trombonist Jasmine Ferguson.

All tracks composed by Mark Simeon Ferguson except

For Welcome Song, composed by Terrence Coulthard, arr. Ferguson.

AVAILABLE AUGUST 26, 2022. LINKS UP SOON

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