Lowak Shoppala’
Azica, 2021
8/10
The composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate brings us a fascinating body of work here, where he expresses Chickasaw identity through modern classical music and theatre. It features the Chickasaw Nation Children’s Chorus and Nashville String Machine, among many others, to convey the genuine and spirit of Tate’s rich heritage.
Act I starts the listen with the calm storytelling of “Fire And Light”, where soft instrumentation complements the talking that, halfway through, welcomes gentle chanting, and “Double Header” continues this approach with firm drumming, lively percussion and an authentic call and response from the Chickasaw voices.
The Clans portion of this act also brings in eloquent narration that gets a bit more intense with “Foshi (Bird)”, as well as the cinematic, atmospheric “Acho’ chaba’ (Alligator)”, and the dreamy strings of “Fani’ (Squirrel)”. “Minko (Chief)” exits the act, and displays sublime singing alongside vivid storytelling that builds into a cathartic, even ebullient finish.
Act II leads with “Entr’ acte”, which branches off from Act I with a similar vocal quality amid a triumphant spirit before settling into the calm, stirring “Removal”, where faint singing adds much to the surreal landscape. “Finale: Fire And Light” exits the listen initially with just narration, before a powerful conclusion armed with glowing voices from the Children’s Chorus leaves an indelible mark.
Also in attendance are Richard Ray Whitman, Lynn Moroney, and Wes Studi (narration), Stephen Clark (baritone), and Chelsea Owen and Meghan Vera Starling (soprano), and together with Tate’s vision they deliver a rich, absorbing and highly cultured adventure that’s both inspiring and enlightening.
Travels well with: Verona Quartet- Diffusion; Catalyst Quartet- Uncovered Volume 1