Eastside Radio’s Album of the Week is Tjukurpa: The Story by Frank Yamma, released through Wantok Music.

Frank Yamma is one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous songwriters with an ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries. An initiated Pitjantjatjara man, Frank sings in his native language and English. His mighty songs, magical guitar playing and deeply evocative voice tell stories of country, protection, heartache, travel and love. Although he’s lived in Adelaide for many years, Frank’s spirit belongs to the heart of Australia. Uluru. Docker River. Ernabella. Central Australia. As Frank says, “wherever the Pitjantjatjara mob come from”.

His albums, Countryman (2010) and Uncle (2014) released after a ten-year hiatus gained Yamma widespread critical acclaim and recognition leading to an opportunity to perform nationally and internationally. Frank’s touring highlights include WOMADelaide, Byron Bay Bluesfest and Sydney Festival. In 2014, Yamma was included in the official showcase for WOMEX, a spot which is rare and coveted amongst artists from Australia as well as internationally.

Frank Yamma released his debut vinyl record, Tjukurpa: The Story this February. The record is accompanied with a digital release of The Kulila Project, a compilation which features contributions from long time collaborators David Bridie and Phil Wales as well as remixes from CORIN, James Henry and EA Wave’s Jinku, Hiribae & Ukweli.