Despite making up only a small percentage of the country’s total population, the aboriginal tribes of Australia are incredibly diverse and speak over 200 distinct languages. This recording features songs by aboriginal tribes from Western Australia, North Queensland, and the Torres Strait. Didjeridu player Albert (no last name given in liner notes), who uses a five foot didjeridu made from a hollowed out telegraph pole, can be heard on a number of tracks. Many of the songs on the recording have been passed from tribe to tribe, which has made the lyrics difficult to translate. Nevertheless, the songs’ meaning is still understood within the framework of ceremonial music. The liner notes feature photographs, musical transcription, and lyrics in the native languages and in English (where translation is possible).

Track Listing