From the premier aboriginal worldbeat group in existence comes this semi-sophomore album, following on the success of their first major-label release (as the first album was essentially a demo tape). The music ranges from jumpy worldbeat with almost a tinge of soukous to traditional voice-and-clapstick performances of bungguls and brolgas. In general it's a catchy, if simple, sound with either a general positive message or a political one. The music is not to be listened to for its ethnic authenticity by any means, but then again that's not the point of
Yothu Yindi. The music should be listened to for what it is, not what it isn't. What it is is a catchy collection of political songs mixing synths, vocals, and guitars with the occasional didjeridoo and clapstick set. As such, it's a wholly listenable affair and should be heard by those interested in fusionistic musics. Purists need not apply. ~ Adam Greenberg