Stars of the Pow-Wow Circuit

The most interesting releases in the pow-wow world in recent months include albums by vital American and Canadian acts Tha Tribe, Pipestone, Bear Creek and Cree Confederation.

Tha Tribe is an American Indian group from Lawrence, Kansas, known for its fierce singing and drumming. Founded by Wayne Silas, Jr.(Menominee/Oneida), they are currently one of the stars of the contemporary pow-wow scene. Their latest two albums are Woodland Groove (Canyon Records CR-6472, 2010), which was recorded live at the famous Woodland Bowl at the Menominee Nation Pow-Wow; and Warriors in the Mist (Canyon Records CR-6487, 2011).

The Cree is one of the largest First Nations’ tribes in Canada. Cree Confederation was formed in the winter of 2007. They represent the Cree people of the Treaty Six areas (Plain and Wood Cree). Their style combines traditional and contemporary forms of singing. Pakosíyimitán (Canyon Records CR-6481, 2010), recorded live, is their latest offering. The double set includes a bonus DVD featuring video footage recorded during the Pow-Wow and exclusive interviews.

Pipestone is formed by musicians from the Lac Courte Orielle Ojibwe Nation is Wisconsin. Their new album is Tribute to the Old Timers (Canyon Records CR-6490, 2011). It celebrates songs that have been passed down from elder to younger singers amongst American Indian cultures.

Bear Creek is a prolific Ojibwe drumming group from White Earth, Minnesota. Bear Creek – XI (Canyon Records CR-6474) was recorded live at San Manuel. The vibrant XI set includes a bonus DVD featuring video footage recorded during the Pow-Wow and exclusive interviews.

http://worldmusiccentral.org/2011/08/23/stars-of-the-pow-wow-circuit/