The first time I played this album I was surprised I never heard of Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu. His voice sounds universally familiar. Even when he sings in his native language, it’s deeply personal and yet he transcends all cultural and geographical boundaries.
Gurrumul was born in 1970 on the Elcho Island, a few hundred miles off the Northwestern shores of Australia. But he is only Australian by location. In his heart and through his songs he is a folk singer for the Gumatj nation. With a little luck and a lot of talent he was introduced to the rest of the world in with his debut album, Gurrumul.
“A remarkable breakout album,” Stated the BBC. “Listen and you will surrender to the greatest voice this continent has ever recorded,” Raved the Sydney Morning Herald.
Gurrumul has a unique ability to draw in and transport the listener. On “Marrandil” he paints a pastoral setting with a voice overwhelmed with emotion as he describes a sunset on the water and reflects about his ancestors, his country and his place in the landscape.
I’m usually partial to the female voices of Billy Holiday, Norah Jones and Enya when it comes to quiet songs, but Gurrumul’s voice is achingly beautiful. His voice has the ability to soothe and ease. He makes Placido Domingo sound like Bob Dylan.
The Sydney Morning Herald uses words like “emotional bridge” and “wellspring so deep” to describe Gurrumul’s musical style. Whatever the description he has the ability to swim in deeper currents not afforded to most musicians. Is it because he was born in a remote place? Is it because he is blind? Whatever his circumstance, Gurrumul is a remarkable musician.
On his website gurrumul.com it states his current European and American tour is on hold while he recovers from an illness. I wish him a speedy recovery.
Dave
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