KEE’AHN — FOR ME, FOR YOU SHOW REVIEW

“Kee’ahn lifted us all with a calm spell of melodies and memories that flowed like smooth water over a riverbed of soulful R’n’B grooves.”

Kee’ahn — a proud Yalanji, Jirrbal, and Badu Islander artist — took a leap of faith in 2019, leaving their North Queensland home to chase a dream in the Eastern Kulin Nation (Melbourne, Australia).

We first saw Kee’ahn years ago at WOMAD, and last night — Thursday 30th October 2025 — marked the beginning of their first headlining tour, launching the long-awaited debut EP for me, for you. First stop: Gadigal Wangal Nura, supported by Cooee and Malaika Mfalme.

The Vanguard in Newtown filled with a diverse crowd, all drawn in by Kee’ahn’s calm spell — melodies and memories flowing like smooth water over a riverbed of soulful R’n’B grooves that kept everyone swaying and uplifted.

Their touring band features Davin Ojala on bass and Izzy Adjei on drums and backing vocals. Davin was the perfect ride-or-die, creating moments of real magic while supporting Kee’ahn’s every move. And who doesn’t love a drummer that sings? Izzy’s playing was precise, her choices full of taste, and her harmonies wrapped beautifully around Kee’ahn’s voice. Everyone on stage was there to serve the music — nothing more, nothing less.

Most of the setlist came from the five-track EP, with a few early favourites and a stunning Angie Stone × Gloria Gaynor mash-up that reimagined both artists through Kee’ahn’s lush, cinematic lens. The room was floored.

A special shout-out to Dan, The Vanguard’s sound engineer, whose mix and lighting work brought out the nuance and depth of Kee’ahn’s songs — enhancing every shimmer, breath, and chord.

With a name drawn from the Wik language, meaning to dance, to play, Kee’ahn honours both that meaning and their ancestors through music that weaves the lushness of the Daintree rainforest with lyrics of heartbreak, healing, and homecoming.

It’s clear Kee’ahn has stepped into a powerful place within themself — and on the stage. We see you. And we’re excited for what comes next.

Kee’ahn continues touring up the east coast — Turrbal + Yaggera Country (Brisbane), Wulgurukaba Country (Townsville), and Wurundjeri Country (Melbourne) — so go bask in the magic and melodies.

Tickets and more info: https://www.keeahn.com/