Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu (Saltwater Band, formerly of the Aboriginal rock/roots band Yothu Yindi) is the first indigenous Australian solo artist to breakthrough to the mainstream, striking a chord with audiences and critics alike with his debut album Gurrumul. Born blind, acutely shy and playing a right hand-strung guitar left-handed in addition to drums, keyboards and the didgeridoo, Yunupingu sings (in his native language and in English) of his home, the Gumatj nation, its history, and his own personal strife. Nonetheless, it is the pristine quality of his vocals and impassioned delivery that attracted all the acclaim, won Australian Record Industry Association awards, and led to his opening set for Elton John. This stunning collection of 12 songs features understated arrangements with double bass, melodic acoustic guitar and occasional touches of a string quartet to showcase Yunupingu’s voice. Quite simply, Yunupingu is a musical genius, and this is one of the best musical discoveries in recent memory. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Kev Carmody, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, Paul Kelly, Geoffrey Oryema, Archie Roach, Yothu Yindi