:: Sensual Being

Archie Roach

In Archie’s own words, his songs are just “three chords and the truth”, a claim that is neither clichéd nor inaccurate in this instance. We, as the listener, are invited to look at the world through his eyes as he reminds us that we are all sensual beings. Roach has chosen to explore what the essence of life is here: love, our connections with other people, the sensual and the spiritual, while existing in this world as children of our land. This approach is so utterly refreshing, and illuminates the soullessness of much of the current musical landscape. Sensual Being is the second extensive collaboration between Archie and Paul Kelly, the first in 12 years. Kelly’s approach to recording Roach focuses on keeping the instrumentation to a minimum, so that Roach’s marvellously resonant voice is allowed the space to soar. Producer Richard Pleasance, to a different effect, also assists him – this is where the blues come in. In the end, the instrumentation and production provide a varied backdrop for Roach’s insightful storytelling talent. Ultimately, this album is uplifting in its authenticity and you can dance to it. It’s a powerful contribution to Australian music.