The Finest from a Finalist
Dr. Debra Jan Bibel | Oakland, CA USA | 08/25/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jay Begaye, a highly regarded singer from the Dine people (Navajo lands) has often been nominated for music awards and he is again nominated for the 2007 Native American Music Awards. His music is fundamentally traditional in format, with his own lyrics, but he, simply put, has soul. Other more-or-less traditional recordings of Southwest Native peoples have plenty of gusto or reach toward New Age mellowness. Beyaye takes the middle path. With the occasional assistance of flute player Anthony Wakeman for color and tone or Darren Yazzie, for a guitar resonance, his songs convey profound spirit, respect for the land, and both the sorrow and joy of the human condition. He is an artist of sound and sight, being a painter and sculptor as well. The CD sound and engineering are excellent. Begaye's voice is clear, pleasant, and expressive. This recording would be a superb addition to your collection."