Search - Coolangubra :: Coolangubra

One of Australia's most distinctive contemporary music ensembles returns with its second United States release. The eponymous Coolangubra picks up where last year's Storm Coming left off; the trio again creates an atmospheric mood through the subtle interplay of acoustic instruments, occasional natural or found sounds, and the odd kitchen utensil or toy instrument.The group, Coolangubra, takes its name from a small, beautiful, but unprotected forest in southeastern Australia, where the three members of the ensemble have been deeply involved in the environmental movement. But Coolangubra is not heavy-handed. In fact, the trio's combination of acoustic guitar, violin or electric viola, and percussion from around the world, produces a sound that is immediately appealing and organic - and somehow distinctly Australian.Coolangubra has gathered critical and popular acclaim in both jazz and contemporary music circles in Australia, but their music is not easily pinned down. There are strong elements of folk, bluegrass, non-Western, and chamber music, as well as hints of ambient electronics and minimalism in some pieces. The result is a fertile blend of emotion and energy, making Coolangubra one of the most important musical exports ever to head north from down under.