- Lady Blue, the latest single from this long-awaited release from Brisbane based singer-songwriter Emily Wurramara, refers to her Grandmother’s affectionate name for the sea, summoned up by the many dreaming stories she would listen to growing up with family surrounded by the allure of the water, camping and fishing. In that way it's very emblematic of her new record.
The promise of this beautifully sincere story-teller’s full debut was confidently telescoped in the release of her Black Smoke EP a year ago. Sung in both English and Anindilyakwa (annen-dilly-yark-wah), these songs reflect her whole background, growing up in the two worlds of the city and the islands, both having paved the way for this inspiring work. There are a further five original compositions on each of which David Bridie (of Not Drowning, Waving and My Friend the Chocolate Cake) has once again contributed his subtle production with a serenity that continues the delicacy and unobtrusiveness of her Black Smoke EP.
Collaboration is a hallmark of her style, Emily has gathered in some recorded ambience from family members of Bickerton Island (just off Groote Eylandt) that includes Uncle Enoch on Tap Sticks (at just twelve years of age, the second song she ever wrote for guitar), her Great-grandmother Gayangwa Lalara on Carry me Home (written for her mother at just fourteen years old) and a chorus of children from Groote on Milyakburra (mil-yhuk-boorah) which is the name in language of the Bickerton Island community. Musical support comes from a variety of sources including emerging artists and soul sisters Alice Skye (on vocals and piano) and Saraima Navara (on background vocals) are joined by Benny Walker (Guitar) and from 'The Cake' cellist Helen Mountfort, Amy Chapman (on bass) and David Bridie on keys and melodica.
On the arrival of this full strength album, Emily can expect many more awards and nominations to come her way, adding to the past accolades of her Black Smoke EP. With the assistance of artist development from BEMAC in Brisbane and mentorship from Shellie Morris and many artists in the Wantok Music family, Emily’s lilting but simple melodic vocals are backed by her surprising maturity as a song writer and story teller for her island culture and family. All together it means Milyakburra is the continuation of an exquisite journey for us all to experience.
- Rick Heritage.