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  R. Carlos Nakai
Sanctuary
(Canyon Records, 2003)
There are many among us who can say that Navajo-Ute flautist R. Carlos Nakai is the first Native American
musician they have heard. I discovered Nakai while listening to Rough Guides Native America. Nakai had
teamed up with the Black Lodge Singers and their joint effort brought chills to my spine. Since that time, I have
sampled a few of Nakai's 20 or so recordings and each time, I listen to his lofty flute, I truly feel at peace with
the world.
Nakai has influenced countless Native American and non-native musicians with his diverse and vast repertoire
which can be found on Canyon Records and SilverWave Records. Nakai who recorded his first flute album in
1983, has performed with jazz artists, symphonies and other Native American performers. He has
collaborated with The Black Lodge Singers guitarist/luthier William Eaton, composer James DeMars,
AmoChip Dabney, Mary Redhouse and others while employing diverse musical styles. He has recorded flute
melodies of various tribes including, Omaha, Zuni, Lakota, Kiowa, Cheyenne and others. He has performed in
concert halls as well as, in outdoor settings.
Sanctuary's 12 tracks were recorded on Native American land in the Rocky Mountains among glacial streams
and alpine refuge. Nakai performs his original compositions on a bass cedar flute and a standard flute. He
captures the tranquility of his sacred environment with every flutter or throaty note played on his wooden flute.
Nakai emits the confidence of a veteran musician and he allows his instrument to capture the spirit of his
sacred environment. His listeners might be sitting in traffic listening to his whistful notes and yet, they will be
transported to a rugged mountain setting. However, it is best to listen to Nakai when relaxing or meditating
at home or taking a break from work.
And for those listeners who find themselves enraptured by Nakai's flute, can delve into his prolific catalogue.
With so many classical, jazz and traditional recordings to choose from, listeners can enjoy this diverse and
universal performer's repertoire.
Buy Sanctuary
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Compliments of Cranky Crow World
Music.
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