Alash
Tuvan torchbearers of the throat singers style unique to Central Asia, are joined by Baltimore musicians to celebrate a new recording.
The performers in Alash are masters of Tuvan throat singing, known as xöömei, which is a remarkable technique for singing multiple pitches at the same time. The best way to experience this vocal wizardy is to hear it live. What distinguishes Alash from earlier generations of Tuvan performers is the subtle infusion of modern influences in their traditional music. One can find complex harmonies and contemporary song forms in Alash's music, but its overall sound and spirit is decidedly Tuvan.
Alash has been to Baltimore before, participating in the EMBODY series, produced by former Creative Alliance resident artist Sho’dekeh. To help celebrate Alash’s new recording, the second set of this show will include guest performers who will interpret Tuvan traditional music alongside Alash.
Alash will be on tour in the United States (including a month residency at Dollywood!), but given their connection to Baltimore artists and the Baltimore creative community, they have decided to select this show as their WORLD album release party for their brand new record ACHAI- a collection of new music dedicated to Kongar-ol Ondar, one of the cultural patriarchs of xöömei, mentor and teacher to Alash who recently passed away.
For the second set of the show, Alash will be joined individually by: Evelyn Petcher & Lonnie Jordanof Classical Revolution, Wendel Patrick and Jasmine Pope of Baltimore Boom Bap Society, Alana Kolb& Shodekeh of EMBODY.
[after the performance ended] “audience members picked their jaws up off the floor.” - Washington Post
