VA - Tribal Music of Australia (1949)

This 1949 field recording features songs from several aboriginal tribes in Australia, most of which feature the didjeridu (didgeridoo), a wind instrument which produces a low, droning sound, and rhythm sticks. Each song is led by a "Songman," who either inherited the song or composed it himself. In aboriginal Australian culture, it is not permissible to sing or perform a song without the consent of the tribe's "Songman." The liner notes explain song meanings and contexts, and provide translations and descriptions of the dances that accompany the music. (folkways)