A blues duo and a powwow drum group effortlessly collaborated due to shared elements between the two music genres, according to one of the artists involved. The album titled “Get Your Feathers Ready” is set to release on Friday, marking a significant milestone in A.W. Cardinal’s music career as the vocalist and guitarist of Blue Moon Marquee.
Cardinal highlighted the longstanding connection between Indigenous music and blues, noting the natural harmony between the two styles. Blue Moon Marquee, known for their swing-blues music from British Columbia, joined forces with Northern Cree, a prominent powwow and round dance drum and singing group based in Maskwacis, Alta.
Hailing from Beaver Lake Cree Nation in northern Alberta, Cardinal emphasized the similarities between blues and powwow music, underscoring the seamless fusion achieved during the collaborative studio sessions. He described how the call and response structure inherent in blues resonated with the dynamics of powwow songs.
In the studio, Cardinal deferred to Northern Cree, acknowledging the mesmerizing quality of their vocals akin to a synchronized flock of birds. Northern Cree, a group frequently sought for collaborations, has left a significant mark in the music industry, with their work sampled by renowned artists such as M.I.A., Santigold, and The Halluci Nation.
Steve Wood, the founder and drum keeper of Northern Cree from Saddle Lake Cree Nation, highlighted the universal appeal of traditional drum music, describing it as a rhythmic heartbeat that transcends cultural boundaries. Wood’s son, Joel Wood, plays a crucial role in ensuring the harmony between the drum beats and accompanying music elements.
Elaine Bomberry, a blues historian from Six Nations of the Grand River, spearheaded the Rez Bluez concert series in Toronto, showcasing Indigenous blues talents. She praised the upcoming album collaboration, emphasizing its significance in celebrating Indigenous blues music and its deep-rooted connection to traditional drumming.
The fusion of Indigenous music and blues dates back to historical interactions between First Nations and runaway slaves, creating a rich musical heritage that continues to influence contemporary artists. The album’s unique blend of modern and ancient sounds aims to bring Native American musical influences to the forefront of mainstream radio, shedding light on their profound impact on American music history.
