A version of Amazing Grace by one of Australia's most recognisable Indigenous artists, the late Yolŋu musician Gurrumul, has hit streaming services on Friday ahead of the November 8 release of Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions.

A reworking of some of the multi-instrumentalist's most beloved tracks, Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions juxtaposes minimalism with rich, cascading orchestration, inviting listeners into a meditative state that deepens the impact of one of the nation's most iconic voices.

This technique is especially obvious on Amazing Grace, which is arranged with elegance and total restraint.

Sung entirely in Yolŋu language, Gurrumul's rendition of perhaps the world's most well-known hymn is fitting to the spirituality that shaped his life.

From a young age, Gurrumul attended a local church where he was influenced by both traditional Yolŋu songs and Christian hymns. These became the two major pillars of his musical style that blended Indigenous melodies with gospel influences.

Collaborating with artists such as Sting, Gary Barlow, Sarah Blasko, Missy Higgins, Delta Goodrem and more, Gurrumul also worked with Australian legend Paul Kelly on a previous rendition of Amazing Grace in 2015, which appeared on The Gospel Album.

Kelly shared his experience of working with Gurrumul on the earlier version of the track.

"It was hard for me to match that matchless voice, like a park footballer trying to hold his own at the MCG on AFL grand final day," Kelly reminisced.

"But I loved the challenge and persevered.... G was right there with me, in my headphones, in my head, singing with me and around me, a spirit guide singing me home."

The orchestral recordings on Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions were produced by Michael Hohnen, arranged by Erkki Veltheim and recorded in Prague by the Prague Metropolitan Orchestra conducted by Jan Chalupecký.

Each piece showcases variation, restraint, and a strong sense of purpose, with the orchestra enhancing the distinctive emotional richness of the performances.

Gurrumul's power to blend cultures through his art has forever changed the possibilities for creators, with Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions providing an opportunity to pause and look back.

One of the most famous Indigenous performers in modern history, the cultural and musical legacy left behind by Gurrumul will be felt far beyond his upcoming album release.

Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions Tracklist

1. Banbirrngu

2. Baru

3. Amazing Grace 4. Bapa

5. Wiyathul

6. Djilawurr

7. Djarrimirri

8. Gurrumul History 9. Wukun

10. Gathu Mawula

Amazing Grace is available for streaming now at all platforms with Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions available for preorder and presave now on digital, vinyl and CD formats.

Banbirrngu - The Orchestral Sessions will be released in full on 8 November 2024.

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