Redgum – Virgin Ground (VG+/VG)

Virgin Ground is the fourth album by Australian folk-rock band Redgum. It is a collection of powerful, socially conscious anthems that are as relevant now as when they were released in the mid-1980s. The album tackles a range of topics, from the plight of Indigenous Australians and the struggles of refugees, to the destruction of the environment and the growing gap between rich and poor.

The album opens with “The Diamantina Drover”, a rousing song about the hardships of life on the land. The song is driven by a driving acoustic guitar and fiddle, while singer John Schumann’s powerful vocals bring the story to life. Other highlights include “Streets of Gold”, a ballad about the gap between the haves and have-nots, and “Khe Sanh”, a tribute to the soldiers of the Vietnam War.

The music on Virgin Ground is deeply affecting, with soaring choruses and passionate performances from the band. The songwriting is honest and thought-provoking, with Schumann’s lyrics often tackling difficult subjects. The band’s passionate performances are enhanced by their use of traditional folk instruments, such as mandolin, fiddle and banjo, as well as more contemporary elements, like electric guitar and synthesizer.

Virgin Ground is an important and timeless album. It is a powerful reminder of the social and political issues that are still relevant today. Redgum’s music is a rallying cry for change, and this album is a testament to the power of music to create social change. It is an essential listen for anyone interested in folk-rock, political music or Australian music in general.

Please note: this description is AI generated and may not always be 100% accurate.