FORMA is quickly shaping up as one of Sydney’s essential summer destinations. The inaugural open-air series from Finely Tuned has added another standout evening to its debut programme, with contemporary soul heavyweights Jordan Rakei and Don West set to share the stage at Tumbalong Park on Sunday 6 December.
It’s a pairing that bridges two generations of modern soul. Sydney’s own Don West arrives riding the momentum of his debut album Give Me All Your Love, a record that has propelled him from local favourite to international touring artist. Over the past year, he’s sold out headline runs across Australia, Europe and North America, while back-to-back nights at London’s iconic KOKO confirmed his growing global profile. Blending classic soul and blues with an easy coastal warmth, West has become one of Australia’s most exciting emerging voices.
Sharing the bill is Jordan Rakei, whose reputation as one of contemporary soul’s most accomplished musicians continues to grow with every release. Across six acclaimed albums, the New Zealand-born, Australian-raised artist has effortlessly woven together neo-soul, jazz, R&B and electronic textures while collaborating with artists including Loyle Carner, Tom Misch, Nubya Garcia and Ezra Collective’s Femi Koleoso. The performance also arrives just weeks after the release of his seventh studio album, Safe Place to Be Wild, giving Sydney audiences an early opportunity to experience the new material live.
The supporting lineup is equally compelling. Arnhem Land outfit Drifting Clouds bring their singular blend of synth-pop, ’80s rock and ancient Songlines, performed in frontman Terry Guyula’s first language, Liyawulma’mirr-Djambarrpuyngu. Following the breakout success of Bawuypawuy, the band have rapidly become one of Australia’s most exciting new acts, earning recognition from triple j Unearthed, the National Indigenous Music Awards and high-profile support slots alongside King Stingray and Cut Copy.
Opening the afternoon are Sydney folk-rock outfit Father’s Favourite, whose vintage-inspired harmonies and blend of blues, country and classic rock provide an ideal soundtrack for an evening beneath the city skyline.
FORMA
26 November – 6 December 2026: Tumbalong Park, Sydney/Gadigal Land
DATES & LINEUP
Thursday 26 November: Free Family Event (more info to come)
Friday 27 November: Kool & The Gang + Sister Sledge ft. Sledgendary (supported by Wrong Way Up)
Saturday 28 November: Anjunadeep Open Air Sydney*
Sunday 29 November: Lime Cordiale & Pacific Avenue (supported by Pamela & Lola Scott)
Thursday 3 December: The Veronicas + Peach PRC (supported by Cat & Calmell)
Friday 4 December: SIX60 (supported by SUB-TRIBE)
Saturday 5 December: Hoodoo Gurus (supported by RATCAT & THE STEMS)
Sunday 6 December: Don West + Jordan Rakei (supported by Drifting Clouds & Father’s Favourite) ADDED
Sunday 6 December (morning): Free Family Event (more info to come)
*Strictly 18+
TICKETS
Presale available from 12pm AEST Thursday 30 July
Tickets on sale to the general public from 12pm AEST 31 July
