alepmepaye is a project by Arrernte artist Kynan Barnes Ampetyane. Weaving through the realms of folk and the subdued spectrums of rock, alepmepaye emerges from the arid country of the Central Desert. Through intimate songwriting and restrained arrangements where voice and melody carry the emotional centre, alepmepaye walks openly into the comfort of an old home.
Alepmepe Ilyeke is a traditional Arrernte name bestowed upon Kynan by his atyeme (mother’s father). The name gives reference to an old man from the Dreaming who travels across his country, Arnapipe. The alepmepaye project is grounded in this connection to family, culture and Country while navigating the internal and external experience of our shared humanity.
Journeying through introspection, story and vulnerability, alepmepaye creates soundtracks shaped by heartfelt melodies and raw compositions that evoke warmth and nostalgia. The music welcomes grief and pain into the fold, reflecting the ebb and flow of our collective mortality through thoughtful musical expression.
Through the tension and release of sorrow and joy, alepmepaye invites listeners into a contemplative space where emotions intertwine, balancing the opposing forces that shape our shared humanity.