Search - Various Artists :: Spirit of Micronesia

Retains the true spirit and integrity of a dying tradition

raatvi00@usfca.edu | Houk Island, Micronesia | 08/03/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As a native of Micronesia, specifically the island of Pulusuk --featured on the album-- (or Houk as we natives know our island), I am quite amazed at the incredible way in which the album tried to retain the true spirit of Micronesia. Recording the songs, chants, dances, etc. on this album was quite a feat; the exteraneous noise which accompanies every island celebration was reduced to highlight the voices of the singers. I am struck with the way the recording has kept the integrity of the music, not fiddling with the voices, but keeping it the way they sounded. The only exception I would have to make is Track 23 which is the recording of a funeral; that violated the sacredness of the death of a relative. It's haunting to listen to because it's so real. The artist went too far in including this particular track on the album. Disrespecting the dead is hardly anything that one can proudly share with the world. The recording label failed in that respect. Otherwise, it is a! good album. To the average music lover, the album might be a boring collection of grunts, shouts, stick slapping, somewhat haunting chants...but to the true Micronesian native who appreciates the traditional chants of the islands, this album is truly the sound of paradise. If there is music in heaven, then this must be it. And heaven help me if this album is played in Hell, because I'd the first one in line to go there. It may be torture for the non-Micronesian, but for me inekuluen ehe tiwach ai sani minei.Killisou chapur.vidalino kinty raatior"