A Raw Glimpse of Mad Collective Connection Live at Nimbin MardiGrass
At Mad Collective Connection, we believe reggae is about truth, unity, and real vibes—not perfection. That’s why we’re sharing this raw, unfiltered moment from our performance at the MardiGrass Festival in Nimbin’s Main Hall.
Pro-grade cameras and studio microphones were not used to record this video. It was shot by a fan in the crowd, surrounded by the energy, the love, and the unmistakable spirit of Nimbin. The sound isn’t perfect, and the lighting is basic—but what is captured here is real roots reggae in action.
A Different Line-Up, Same Conscious Vibe
Our regular bass player Abi couldn’t make the gig—he was in the Northern Territory, continuing his work with the Aboriginal community. But the music must play on, and in stepped Skye, a talented young musician who held down the bass with heart and soul.
Skye had only just joined us for this special gig—and would you believe it, he turned 19 the very next day. A big shout out to Skye! You stepped up with courage, love, and a deep feel for the riddim. The whole band—and the whole Nimbin crowd—felt your spirit.
Why We’re Sharing This
Nimbin MardiGrass isn’t your average music festival—it’s a bold, grassroots celebration of counterculture, cannabis law reform, and creative freedom. Every year, this quirky little town in the Northern Rivers comes alive with protest parades, open-air jam sessions, street art, and a wild mix of activists, artists, and free spirits.
For us, playing at MardiGrass isn’t just a gig—it’s a spiritual connection to the heart of a movement that stands for truth, justice, and the healing power of plant medicine.
A moment in that continuing story is captured in this video.
It’s not polished or staged—but it’s real.
You’ll see:
A connection between people, sound, and purpose
Mystic and Dom vibing hard with Skye on bass
The warmth and spirit of Nimbin’s iconic hall
From Humble Halls to Higher Heights
We’re working on capturing high-quality live footage to better represent our full sound and energy. But we also believe moments like this matter—the grassroots performances, the youth stepping in, the fans capturing it all on their phones.
Thanks to Skye for bringing the bass, and Nimbin for always bringing the love.
One Love. One Movement.
One Love, One Journey
Every gig, every show, and every fan interaction is a step on our journey. While the sound might not always be perfect, the energy and love we feel from you all make every moment worthwhile.
Nimbin MardiGrass 2025 was a reminder of the power that community, music, and movement can bring to a cause.
Whether you were in the crowd, just discovering Nimbin MardiGrass over the internet, or were part of Michael Balderstone’s wonderful team that pulled the event together, we want to thank everyone that contributed to this amazing experience.
We’re were hyped by the energy of MardiGrass and we’re looking forward to our next big event. Stay tuned to Reggae Groove, and keep sharing the love.
