Traditional Songs of the Western Torres Straits, South Pacific

produced by Wolfgang Laade, 1925-2013 (Folkways Records, 1977), 29 mins

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Field of Interest: World Music
Description: One might plausibly assert that the Melanesians of the western Torres Strait have moved along with the world, turning to new cultural practices and losing interest in the traditions perceived as old and outdated once Western ideas and technologies reached the islands’ shores. The liner notes explain that most of the songs and dances on this recording are documentations of a now extinct tradition that largely disappeared around the turn of the twentieth century, in fact asserting that this recording may have been the last time many of the songs were ever performed. This aside, the legends and folk tales woven into chants and drumming provide a compelling look into the past.
Content Type: Music recording
Duration: 29 mins
Format: Audio
Sub Genre: Traditional, Song
Label: Folkways Records
Producer: Wolfgang Laade, 1925-2013
Release Date: 1977
Subject: World Music, Music & Performing Arts, Australia and the Pacific Islands, Australia e Ilhas do Pacífico, Australia e Islas del Pacífico, Australia
Keywords and Translated Subjects: Australia e Ilhas do Pacífico, Australia e Islas del Pacífico