[Sound recording] Somewhere in Palestine

Recording of the song titled 'Somewhere in Palestine', created as part of the Music and the First World War project. Music and lyrics written by Warrant Officer Peter Wallace. Produced by Chris Latham, with Andrew Goodwin as vocalist and Alan Hicks on piano. This recording was made at Wesley Music Centre, Canberra, on 8 May 2016. The work is performed in the spirit of the time with some changes made for the modern ear.

Chris Latham, producer of this recording, notes: 'This song has been written in a major key and has the sad sentiment of a mother who has lost all her children. There is dignity about the song and it is perfect. This song uses a memorable rhythmic device, known as a hook, and has a lilting 6/8 time signature. The inversion of rhythm is interesting in places where you don’t expect it. This isn’t a professional song and is for everyone to sing. It sits well in the voice and has an aftermath story. There is a strong genre of grave evocation. The lyrics discuss the idea that it would be beautiful where the son is buried and puts this into a song for those who are unable to travel there. This song is the opposite of propaganda. It isn’t comforting but it is soothing like a balm for a grievous wound. It is the language of shared grief.'