: Though more broadly categorized as stringband legends, they represent the generational passing of PNG guitar styles that helped cement techniques like Edelovi into the national consciousness.
: A typical stringband features multiple acoustic guitars, ukuleles, and sometimes a "bush bass" (a large, single-stringed resonator made from a tea chest or wood box). png local style guitar - edelovi
The guitar was introduced to PNG largely by Australian and American soldiers during World War II and through missionary influence. From these roots, PNG developed its own "lokal" guitar culture: : Though more broadly categorized as stringband legends,
: Unlike Western standard tuning, Edelovi players often use open tunings —where the guitar is tuned to a major chord—allowing for the frequent use of open strings and resonant, ringing drones. From these roots, PNG developed its own "lokal"
: The style is known for a "busy" rhythmic feel. Lead players use rapid fingerpicking patterns on the higher strings to create a bright, shimmering melody that sits on top of a dense backing ensemble of guitars and ukuleles.