7 YEARS OF ISU TAKI ft: Rodrigo Gallardo (Chile)

Seven years of celebrating our Latin American heritage and the cultures, peoples and traditions that came before us. A living legacy that continues to evolve, inspire and bring us together. From the lands we come from to the dancefloors we create in Melbourne. 

What a journey it has been, so many people involved, so many smiles on the dancefloor, so many friendships made and such a beautiful community built along the way.

For this celebration we are bringing back to Melbourne Rodrigo Gallardo directly from Chile. Rodrigo was the very first artist we toured as ISU TAKI back in 2023. A sold-out tour  that paved our path to continue bringing magic from Latin-America and beyond right to your doorstep here in Naarm. After more than  three years, we are lucky enough to welcome him back in Melbourne for our 7th anniversary.

𝐑𝐎𝐃𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐎 𝐆𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐎 (𝐂𝐋)

Rodrigo Gallardo is a Chilean composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer.

He began his journey in the world of music at a very young age, playing instruments such as the charango and the zampoña. His career includes being one of the founders of 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐳𝐚, a band with which he created compositions influenced by folklore and electronic music for almost ten years. In 2016, he began releasing solo material and, with six albums to his name, has become a leading figure in the organic electronic music movement worldwide. 

Andean music with Latin American roots is the origin of Rodrigo's sound. His work is nourished by the modernity of samples, electronic rhythms, and deep bass lines that invite us on a journey through song, reeds, charangos, and guitars, accompanied by lyrics that seek collective consciousness and ancestral connection.

With his live show, Rodrigo Gallardo has performed on different stages in Latin America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In recent years, he has participated in renowned events such as Fusion (Germany), Cercle (France), Ostrava (Czech Republic), Dreamersland (Poland), Envision (Costa Rica) y Amanita (Argentina), among others.

𝐋𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐀

With an identity deeply rooted in Chilean carnival and Andean folklore, Lavandita has been making waves in Naarm’s live music scene with their vibrant and energetic performances that incorporate traditional dancers.

We are honoured to have them set the tone for the night. Expect a joyful mix of cumbia, Andean music, cueca and more — and, of course, plenty of jumping, dancing and good vibes.

𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏

Based in Melbourne, Benjamin Last (Temple Step) is a music producer, DJ and sound healer who for more than 30 years has fused tribal-ethno-electronic beats, percussion, synths and bass to ignite dance floors and awaken hearts through ecstatic dance, live performance and sound healing.

His music treats sound as a sacred, alchemical tool, blending global cultures and ancient vibes into multi-genre fusions that invite audiences into transformative, creative expression.

He has collaborated with artists such as Dr Joe Dispenza, Hang Massive, Liquid Bloom, Dub FX and Desert Dwellers, performed at festivals including Texas Eclipse and Rainbow Serpent, and co-founded Motiv Music, his internationally acclaimed production company.

𝐂𝐔𝐄𝐑𝐏𝐎 𝐍𝐄𝐆𝐑𝐎

DJ, Cultural promoter and representing ISU TAKI on this celebration. influenced by world and electronic music, Originally from Colombia and now based in Melbourne.

Known for his adaptability behind the decks, Cuerpo Negro tailors each performance to the unique energy of the crowd, venue, and occasion. Seamlessly moving between genres , he crafts dynamic sets that resonate across diverse dancefloors, from intimate settings to peak-time club environments. His approach balances musicality with impact, delivering engaging, fluid journeys that connect deeply with audiences while maintaining a strong, dancefloor-driven edge.

presented by:

𝐈𝐒𝐔 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐈 

ISU TAKI is a platform that began as a response to the lack of representation of emerging movements of underground dancefloors across Abya Yala (Latin America). These movements have in common the vision of re-vindication of the diversity of folkloric and traditional music by incorporating modern electronic beats to traditional melodies. ISU TAKI has been generating a space for new music genres such as folktronica, Andes grooves, Andes step, Afrofuturism, tropical bass, digital cumbia, Afrobeats, and more. As a result, a vibrant community has grown around it. ISU TAKI has organised events since 2019 across Naarm (Melbourne) and now extended to Meanjin (Brisbane), while actively collaborating with other collectives in NSW and QLD.

Art by the amazing artist @𝐣𝐨𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐭𝐚

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This event takes place on the stolen land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. ISU TAKI respectfully acknowledges elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge ancient knowledge not only from the Kulin Nation, but all across both continents: Australia and Abya Yala. Always was, always will be.

VENUE INFO

Shows are Standing unless clearly stated. Check Ticket Type when purchasing.

Howler Bar & Grill
 The kitchen will be serving a full menu from 5pm (Tues - Fri) and 2pm (Sat - Sun) till late including vegan and vegetarian options.
 You can view the delicious offerings available by clicking here.

Booking are not essential but recommended here.

Accessibility
 Howler is Accessible.
 Both Garden and Theatre are 100% accessible for patrons including a central restroom and easy curbside access for car services. 

This venue accepts companion cards. Simply purchase your ticket and contact Moshtix to arrange access for your Companion. 

Parking
 A park and ride, council operated carpark is located immediately outside of Howler's doors.

Public Transport
Howler is conveniently located just a two minute walk from both the Route 19 Coburg tram (stop 21), and Jewel train station on the Upfield line.

Bicycle
We adjoin the Upfield Bike Path and have many designated bike parks on site.