Bumpy

Funny thing, for an artist called Bumpy, her music is so damn smooth. Maybe it’s the breathtakingly silky vocal. Perhaps it’s the Christmas pudding-like assortment of musical ingredients all competing but never overtaking. Make yourself at home, nestle into the couch and soak it in.

The moniker of the Naarm-based Noongar woman Amy Dowd, Bumpy encompasses R&B and neo-soul with warmth and exuberance supported by a top-tier band. Following a significant stint fronting neo-soul outfit Squid Nebula, Dowd branched out with a solo project. Following a first single, “Falling” in 2020, a global pandemic “Morning Sun EP” released in 2023. Receiving well-deserved awards at the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAS), Music Victoria Awards, and the Archie Roach Foundation Award For Emerging Talent, it’s best to jump on the bandwagon now!

The track “Hide & Seek” is a slow-burn classic, starting with some wicked keys before it lurches into a swampy groove. There are a couple of musical surprises to keep you guessing, including a third-quarter funk guitar breakdown. “Come and see what could be in store.” sounds like a promise on the wind. 

Nestled between greenery and a 6 six-piece band, Bumpy (Amy Dowd) commands attention with a cool breeziness. Filmed at FABRIK studios on Wurundjeri land, the music saturates every corner of the space. Let it steep like tea, and take in the flavours. This one is definitely worth a revisit.

CREDITS

Director, Camera Op, Lights, Edit, Words PETER HUME, Producer, Photos JAMES MORRIS, Online Editor LARISSA JANE HUME, Audio JAMES FREEMAN Mix ISAAC BARTER, Production Assistant, BTS Photos OLIVER JANSSON Location FABRIK.