Doomadgee Mission Community Boys Release Debut EP, "Yugurlda People"

The Doomadgee Mission Community (DMC) Boys, a six-piece band from Doomadgee on Gangalidda Country in remote Queensland, have released their debut EP in February. The band integrates stories of the Gangalidda people, performing songs in both traditional language and English.

Band Formation and Development

Lead singer Elijah Douglas initiated the band's journey. A lyric, "Dangga yingga baruwa dila wirdi" (Pelican, a man in The Dreaming), became the opening line of their first single, "Pelican." The majority of the band members, including Elijah Douglas (lead vocals), Jeffrey Dumaji (bass), Ashley Dumaji (drums/backing vocals), and Ronald Bismarck (drums/vocals), were childhood friends.

Aside from lead guitarist Tommy Lee Jack, most members learned their instruments from scratch over two years at the Doomadgee Youth Hub's community recording studio. Musician Dale Mallett, from The Floating Bridges and Mufassa & the Pride, mentored the group since 2019, guiding their musical development through workshops.

Debut EP and Community Reception

The band's debut EP is titled "Yugurlda People," the traditional name for the Gangalidda people. It features five songs and was recorded in the Doomadgee studio, with final mixing completed on the Sunshine Coast.

The Doomadgee community, with fewer than 1,500 residents, has expressed strong support for the band, greeting them with celebrations upon their return from recording.

Future Plans and Musical Style

The DMC Boys have already performed in neighboring communities like Burketown. They are currently developing new music for an upcoming EP and album, expected to be released this year. They also plan to visit Mornington Island to mentor young musicians.

The band's musical style combines Indigenous rock with reggae elements. Their aim is to represent Doomadgee, share their culture, and encourage local youth to pursue their interests.