Clan/Destine were the winners of the 2001 NAMMY (Native American Music Award) for best Pop/Rock Recording for their album Deeply Rooted. Proving without a reasonable doubt that Clan/Destine has proven their worth as solid musicians. In honor of this award BANDWIDTH is proud to present a double CD review of Clan/Destine's recent albums, the rock oriented Deeply Rooted and the spiritual and heavily Native Americn influenced Amajacoustic.
Released in 1999, Deeply Rooted has a late 70's rock feel, slow, and reflective. But what defines the album is the mix of Native American ethnic music, Spanish Guitar, and West Indian beats. Clan/Destine brings an edgy change to the traditional rock music disseminated for mass culture. The first track on Deeply Rooted, Jaucqamundo has the mix of Aboriginal American music with a Southwestern Spanish guitar that is romantic and relaxing.
Clan/Destine are not only true to expressing their native beliefs, but are also dedicated to a rock style that seems to have been lost since the angst ridden rock 80's and 90's became the music of choice for mainstream America. Songs like Quest and Birrigubba are reminiscent of the rock sound of groups like the Eagles and Credence Clearwater Revival, songs that not only make you appreciate song and want to rock, but also are deeply introspective and spiritually renewing.
Gooch and Osceola came out of nowhere with a totally different sound all-together from the remainder of the album. Gooch (Just like Trees) had a real funky rhythm, blues, and jazz feel, while Osceola has definite country folk music undertones. My personal favorite track on the album was 7-Miles; it to me represents the full potential of Clan/Destine's musical ability. I like the use of a speaking word narrator; the song's melody was spooky it was spiritual. Though the lyrics are brief and elusive, the emotions conveyed throughout the song were of peace and contentment.
Deeply Rooted is suited for the long ignored mature rock fan. It is a good CD and the tracks are solid. Deeply Rooted was worthy of its NAMMY Award.
Amajacoustic is my personal favorite of the two CDs. I particularly enjoyed the mixing of the various Native American ethnic tunes, using traditional instruments to create a solid instrumental LP. Clan/Destine once again proves their worth as diverse musicians.
There are nine tracks on this CD each more beautiful than the next. I particularly like the first track Hummingbird, the use of the flute was haunting. I also enjoyed the use of various ethnic male chanting choruses, a good example of this is the brief but deeply spiritual Time Together. Though I could not understand what they were saying in words the feel of the song as it sung relays to the listener that a bonding of kindred is taking place.
Rez Dawgs was a cool funky blend of traditional native instruments with a bit of a funky Spanish beat. Blue Flute is just damn good track. I like the mixture of chanting and the strumming blues guitar. It is just a great mix of sound and cultures. Another interesting track was Wah-Kuh "gift" which sounded as if a didgeroo (an Australian Aboriginal insturment) was mixed with sax, flute, guitar, and chanting.
Throughout Amajacoustic Clan/Destine affirm their talent. Overall those who enjoy new age and or ethnic world music should really check out this CDs. Clan/Destine is destined for greatness so don't be the last ones to join the fan club.
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