Reviewed by Tony Cummings

If you've never heard of Gurrumul you either live in an igloo, are utterly committed to/interested in only one genre of music be it hardcore or country or only listen to music made by Christian artists (which isn't such a bad thing in that it ensures you limit your exposure to art that is debased or banal but means you miss out on enjoying some magnificent music). If you fall into either of those last two categories (I think I can assume Eskimos won't get to read this review) let me advise that Gurrumul is the first Aboriginal singer to gain international acclaim. He has performed in many of the biggest auditoriums in the world, appeared on TV and even sung at Buckingham Palace and the White House. Critics have called his voice one of the most beautiful they've ever heard and once one encounters his achingly lovely high tenor-cum-falsetto it is impossible to forget. Gurrumul was brought up in the church and on this album goes back to his roots to deliver songs of faith which exude beauty and sincerity. "Jesu" has been released as a single and whether he's performing "Amazing Grace", "Baptism" or "Trinity" or singing in his native language ("Yo Djamarrkuli" or "Walu") the effect of that captivating voice over simple acoustic and vocal harmony accompaniments is truly transcendent. In short, 'The Gospel Album' is a masterpiece.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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