Hailing from Tuva, a tiny republic in the heart of Central Asia, Alash showcases a mastery of throat singing, a technique for singing multiple pitches at the same time. Committed to preserving and developing the Tuvan musical tradition, this trio makes music about generations, stability and change, depth and spontaneity, growth and loss, roots and breezes. The three members are graduates of the Kyzyl Arts College and students of Kongar-ool Ondar, the renowned master throat singer and member of the Tuvan parliament who was featured in the movie Genghis Blues. Trained in traditional Tuvan music since childhood, they also cultivate a love of Western music—and sometimes include nontraditional instruments, old and new, drawing upon their knowledge of complex rhythms and Western harmonies to expand their musical possibilities. Smithsonian Folkways Recordings recently released the group’s latest album, Achai.
Shodekeh is a professional beatboxer and vocal percussionist currently working in the Baltimore area and beyond.
Photo: Vladimir Mongush