专辑简介

Nikamok (pronounced 'nik-guk-mook' - as in book) is a Cree language (nêhiyawêwin) word meaning 'sing' (inclusive) and is Joseph Naytowhow and Cheryl L'Hirondelle. The duo met on Treaty Six land in the fall of 1995 and began singing together almost instantaneously. They performed together and toured extensively as a duo until 2004. They continue to stage an annual reunion performance and continue to co-write songs and work on other related creative projects. This compilation of songs for both children and adults is reflective of the poetic lyrics, melodies and uplifting rhythms one would hear within social and ceremonial circles of Indigenous people from the great northern plains of Turtle Island. This CD was originally nominated for a Best Aboriginal Recording at the Prairie Music Awards (now Western Canadian Music Awards) in 2001.

When this album was first recorded we were supported and inspired in conjunction with our work as co-storytellers-in-residence with the nine First Nation bands served by Meadow Lake Tribal Council (in northwest Saskatchewan, Canada). Several of the elders we were so fortunate to have lived among for five years have passed on but their teachings and our profound love for them remains. We also acknowledge the tobacco spirit (cistêmaw), the appropriate offering to access traditional knowledge and songs. We dedicate this CD of songs now to the future generations with the hope that you will keep sounding your uniqueness into all directions as a way to strengthen your connection and dedication to life with our mother earth!

NOTE: Two additional bonus tracks have been included from the original recording: Kitaskîhkanaw and Pêpîsis Nipa.

We hope you enjoy and thank you for keeping the spirit of music alive!