MURUNDAK

Australia, 2011, 82 minutes, Colour.
Directed by Natasha Gadd, Rhys Graham.

Murundak means ‘alive’ in the Woirurrung language.

Murundak was also the title of a travelling concert in 2006 by the Black Arm Band. The band’s name derives from the Prime Minister, John Howard’s statement about not having a black armband view of history,

The band continues to tour Australia and this documentary film captures performances at various venues around the Australian states. The film offers opportunity for many of the members to perform individually. The band comprises:

• Archie Roach
• Bart Willoughby
• Dan Sultan
• Dave Arden
• Emma Donovan
• Gapanbulu Yunupingu
• Jimmy Little
• Joe Geia
• Kutcha Edwards
• Lou Bennett
• Mark Atkins
• Peter Rotumah
• Rachael Maza Long
• Ruby Hunter
• Shane Howard
• Shellie Morris
• Stephen Pigram
• Ursula Yovich
Their songs are protest songs from the past and from more recent times. Many have made their mark on Australian consciousness.

But, the film is not simply a selection of songs excitingly performed.

Murundak also narrates the history of indigenous Australia since 1788. There is voiceover information and commentary. There is historical footage (including John Howard’s speech and Kevin Rudd’s apology). There is a glimpse of Burnum Burnum on the coast of Kent taking possession of Britain on behalf of the aboriginal people – tongue in cheek but telling.

Many questions are raised, many of them the main ones like the Stolen Generation and the repercussions. However, one important question comes to the fore (also in the context of missions): when and how was the link broken for 19th and 20th century aborigines between them and their millennia-old heritage?

The performers speak genially and articulately. They value the songs. In recounting their history and life stories, the audience is impressed and moved – one would like to single out various singers but, then, looking at the list, they all offer a great deal that is worthwhile.

The release of Murundak coincided with the release of the feature film, based on oral stories of the Kimberleys, Mad Bastards, featuring the music of Stephen Pigram, one of the Black Arm Band. Both films should be on the Australian, must-see list.