Merdeka (freedom) is a captivating and moving compilation, made up of songs donated by artists from seventeen countries around the world. They have come together to show their solidarity and support for the West Papuan people in their ongoing struggle for freedom from Indonesian rule.

Spanning style and genre - including bossa nova, Balkan gypsy beats, folk, west Pacific melodies, African roots, ambient electronica, world fusion and ethnic Sami music - this collection of songs will take you on an evocative journey like no other, exploring the global music scene in depth.

Featuring exclusive, previously unreleased songs from the likes of Shukar Collective (Romania), Modeste Hugues Randriamahitasoa (Madagascar), Dominic Kakolobango (Zambia), Tribali (Malta), Amycanbe (Italy), Vajas (Norway) and Ohayo Samba (Brazil / Japan), Merdeka promises to open your senses and move your mind in unforgettable fashion. Add to this extremely rare recordings of tribal chanting from the remote central highland region of West Papua, and you are left with a truly unique collection of songs.

The west Pacific island of New Guinea is one the of the most remarkable places on earth, swathed in tropical rainforests and mangroves, and inhabited predominantly by tribal communities, whose way of life has remained largely unchanged since the Stone Age. Yet, this paradise has descended into a scene reminiscent of hell, with over 400,000 native West Papuans having been ruthlessly slaughtered by Indonesian army and militia since Indonesia's illegal occupation in 1963.

All proceeds from the compilation are going directly to refugee support schemes

To purchase a copy follow this link dancingturtle.co.uk/shop/merdeka.php