Meet the desert kids making classic hard rock cool again

From the remote desert community of Akaye, also known as Mulga Bore, a young Indigenous band is breathing new life into classic hard rock. Mulga Bore Hard Rock, a family affair comprised of cousins in their teens and early 20s, delivers loud, unapologetic rock 'n' roll. Their music is rooted in powerful riffs, hard-hitting rhythms, and a deep admiration for legendary acts like AC/DC. What sets them apart is the rare perspective of young Indigenous musicians sharing their experiences of growing up in one of Australia's most isolated regions. "I started playing with my uncles back in Mulga Bore," shares bassist Kirklen "Desert Demon" Bird. "It's been a long time. I was playing with them when I was little, maybe 9 or 10. They don't really play rock, they play country and a bit of blues." Bird credits AC/DC and Angus Young for igniting his passion for the genre, noting, "Their sound is just powerful." The band's debut album, 'Sweet Home Mulga Bore,' features the title track which originated as a country song by Bird's uncles. "When we're away on tours and stuff, away from home, playing that song is giving us the strength to keep going," Bird explains. This connection to their homeland is a constant source of motivation, even as they venture further afield. The band enjoys a proud reception from their home audience, with Bird stating, "It has given us pride showing our younger cousins what we can do with our music." This intergenerational influence is evident as younger relatives now watch and learn from them, mirroring Bird's own childhood experiences of watching his uncles play. "It's always good to see the uncles and aunties coming in with a big smile on their face," Bird adds, highlighting the strong family and community bonds that underpin their musical journey.

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I started playing with my uncles back in Mulga Bore. It's been a long time. I was playing with them when I was little, maybe 9 or 10. They don't really play rock, they play country and a bit of blues.