Khöömei Beat – Changys Baglaash (Arc Music, 2021)
Colorful Tuvan traditions and mesmerizing throat singing meet engaging modern elements in Khöömei Beat’s new album, Changys Baglaash.
On the whole, Changys Baglaash includes many original songs grounded in Tuvan folk music as well as recreations of traditional songs arranged in exciting new ways. Notably, all band members play various musical instruments and put together a fabulous, masterfully structured fusion.
Khöömei Beat was formed when the musicians met at a local contest in 2017. At that time, frontman Aikhan Oorzhak was looking for a band, and an ensemble of musicians were seeking a singer. Together, they created Khöömei Beat.
Band members include Aikhan Oorzhak on lead vocals, backing vocals, doshpuluur (2-string plucked lute), and igil (2-tring fiddle); Kan-Khüler Saaya on lead vocals, backing vocals, byzaanchy (4-string fiddle), chadagan (percussion zither), and shyngyraash (small metal balls); Aidyn Sedii on backing vocals, cello, and hooves; Shoraan Ochur on electric bass and shoor (flute); and Bailak Mongush on drums, multi-pad sampler, and kengirge (drum).
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.