TRACK 4 (Rei74-01-s19) Song iv: Nginimb-andja [108] (Two items)

In this song, a Walakandha expresses suspicion about an approaching stranger. One of the duties of the Walakandha dead is to protect their living descendents, and they are notoriously hostile to outsiders who have not been properly introduced to them or their country. Interlopers are likely to be physically or sexually assaulted, or to have unfortunate accidents visited upon them.

Edward Nemarluk, John Chula and Tommy Moyle dancing as suspicious Walakandha, Wadeye 1988 (see Marett, 2005, p 99). (Photo by Mark Crocombe)

In this track two items are dovetailed, that is, the didjeridu begins item 2 before the stick beating for item 1 has been completed. The non-final instrumental sections have the same form as in ‘Walakandha No. 6’ (track 2).

Song structure summary

Item 1

VOCAL SECTIONS 1-4

Melodic section 1

Text phrase 1

Rhythmic mode 1 (without clapsticks)

A yene, yene

Melodic section 2

Text phrase 2

Rhythmic mode 1 (without clapsticks)

A

Who are these strangers who keep staring at me and don't recognise me?

INSTRUMENTAL SECTIONS 1 - 3 (non-final)

Rhythmic mode 5*

INSTRUMENTAL SECTION 4 (final)

Rhythmic mode 5b (fast doubled)

Item 2

VOCAL SECTIONS 1-3

Melodic section 1

Text phrase 1

Rhythmic mode 1 (without clapsticks)

Aa Yene, yene

Melodic section 2

Text phrase 2

Rhythmic mode 1 (without clapsticks)

Aa

Who are these strangers who keep staring at me

and don't recognise me?

INSTRUMENTAL SECTIONS 1-2 (non-final)

Rhythmic mode 5*

INSTRUMENTAL SECTION 3 (final)

Rhythmic mode 5b (fast doubled)