CD Release: Medicine Dream
July 27, 2007 by Josh Cole
A Native American musical experience that is always contemplative and positive, Medicine Dream weave in tasteful portions of ambient tribal chanting, driving beats, and lovely overtones of flutes specially made to cater to their unique approach to modern soft rock. It's always a treat when they go into one of those trances of: “Way-hey-hey-ya-yo-way-hey.”
With their new release “Learning to Fly,” Paul Pike takes Medicine Dream to new heights and depths while reflecting on the wisdom of his ancestors. Pike sings of his life with family, friends and of future generations that will carry on the heritage of showing honor and love in an ever changing, diverse chaos that threatens to choke out all indigenous race and culture.
Paul Pike is accompanied by George Newton, Buz Daney, John Field, Steven Alvarez, Ralph Sara, and David Helzer.
In “Way of the Warrior,” Pike describes how a real man is supposed to act in life. He sings: “If you believe in yourself, we'll believe in you. If you respect yourself, we'll have respect for you.”
“It Takes my Breath Away” describes a very typical Alaska evening summer scene by a beautiful lake with the sun still shining and love lingering in the air. Pike sings: “The loons are crying an evening prayer. Their only witness is you and me . . . sitting there.”
“The Trail” is nostalgic and profound. Pike reflects: “I'll take a trip into the mountains to find the trail that takes me home...So many years ago since we've walked upon this place. And I can see the sunlight. It puts a smile upon my face.”
I find it fascinating how they take these ancient tribal chants and weave modern rock riffs and beats with them, giving them a very characteristic and signature style of their own. Medicine Dreams' music inspires pride and power. It brings a message of hope, of preserving great culture, and showing love in all aspects of life. Medicine Dreams' “Learning to Fly” will take your breath away.
Give them a listen at www.medicinedream.com
Josh Cole is a local professional musician and private music instructor. He reviews local band releases every Friday for Bullseye.
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