Djarimirri: Child of the Rainbow

The 2017 death of Aboriginal musician Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu at the age of 46 was a loss felt not only in Australia, but around the world. With his angelic voice the blind vocalist had touched many hearts, from his early days with groups Yothu Yindi and Saltwater Band to his more recent bestselling solo albums. His contribution to world music was profound.

Thankfully, Dr G left behind one final musical statement, a glorious masterpiece that brings together traditional Yolngu songs from his Elcho Island home - off the Arnhem Land coast - with modern Western orchestral arrangements, reminiscent of Philip Glass, Steve Reich and Michael Nyman compositions. Completed just before his death, Djarimirri's four- year creation was lovingly overseen by Gurrumul's longtime producer, bassist and manager Michael Hohnen, with orchestrations arranged by trusted collaborator and composer Erkki Veltheim.

Somewhat of a departure from his usual stripped-back setting of guitar- bass-vocals, the occasionally epic backings of Djarimirri are handled sensitively, with Dr G's remarkable vocals weaving through the orchestral themes. Designed to be heard more as a complete work than as individual tracks, nevertheless the energised ‘Galiku’ and more delicate ‘Marrayarr’ are standout tracks. It's a fitting tribute to Gurrumul's legacy that his final studio album is just as groundbreaking as his solo debut, allowing the sadness of his passing to be balanced by the indelible memory of a rare voice infused by the depth of Yolngu culture.