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Gathering of Voices–Verdell Primeaux and Johnny Mike
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Canyon Records, (800) 268-1141; http://www.canyonrecords.com
I am in the audience at a Primeaux and Mike concert. Three men stand before microphones: Verdell Primeaux (Oglalla, Yankton Sioux and Ponca), Johnny Mike (Diné) and a man introduced only as The Wind. They are solid in stature, dressed simply in jeans and buttoned-down shirts, and have their thumbs in their pockets. They close their eyes, and out of their mouths come the dulcet tones of angels. Unable to marry the physical presence of the men with this heavenly sound, I close my eyes and let the music move through me.
The music of Primeaux and Mike is unmistakably sacred music. As longtime members of the Native American Church, the two have been composing songs in Sioux, Navajo, and a smattering of English, to honor "Father Peyote," a sacrament of the church. Liner notes provide information about the church and its origins.
Their recordings fall into two styles: traditional peyote songs, collected on Gathering of Voices, which are accompanied by the vigorous beat of rattle and water drum; and healing songs, soothing original compositions performed a cappella, as heard on the album Walk in Beauty: Healing Songs from the Native American Church and other albums (Gathering is their eighth recording).
Peyote songs reflect their spiritual purpose and differ from other Native American songs in having a quiet, meditative sound. They sometimes interweave familiar lyrics and melodies from other songs. These highly personal "prayers in song" are used for healing of the spirit and for providing a gentle, soothing accompaniment to meditation, bringing peace and harmony to listeners. Primeaux and Mike are known as the foremost creators of these songs.
The voices can be likened to the Benedictine chants popularized a few years ago, and their sound is also reminiscent of the exquisite harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Whatever your association, the music of Primeaux and Mike is transcendent.
Gene Autry–20 Greatest Movie Hits
Varese Sarabande, (818) 753-4143; http://www.varesesarabande.com
Gene Autry's death last year left America without one of its national treasures. This collection of 20 songs from Autry's films will help Gene's fans keep him close to their hearts. The tunes are arranged chronologically, beginning with his big 1935 hit, "That Silver-Haired Daddy of Mine," from the Republic picture Tumbling Tumbleweeds. Other songs that will put a smile on any face are "Back in the Saddle Again," "Sioux City Sue," "Blueberry Hill," "Take Me Back to My Boots and Saddle," and the Autry composition "Be Honest with Me."
Sidekick Smiley Burnette joins Autry on "Deep in the Heart of Texas" and "Rocky Canyon." Singing cowgirls Mary Lee ("I'm An Old Cowhand," "Carry Me Back to the Lone Prairie") and Ann Miller ("Melody Ranch") team up with Gene for some fine duets. The concert ends with one of Autry's most famous compositions, recorded in 1949, "Here Comes Santa Claus." These enjoyable hits will prompt many listeners to head for the video store to rent or buy some of the wonderful films in which Gene performed these memorable tunes.
Gene Autry–Love Songs
Varese Sarabande, (818) 753-4143; http://www.varesesarabande.com
Gene Autry, hero to millions of little cowboys, also made many a woman swoon. These 18 love songs, taken from Autry movies, show us why he had such appeal as a leading man. Unlike many cowboy movie heroes, who seemed to prefer horses to women, Autry often courted and even kissed the cowgirl heroines.
The earliest recording, made in 1935, is the humorous "I'd Love to Wed On the Prairie" from his film The Sagebrush Troubadour. The collection also reminds us that Autry was a skillful, prolific composer. He wrote six of the songs, including "You're the Only Star in My Blue Heaven" (1939), "I'll Wait for You" (1942), and the famous and lovely "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" (1938). Let Autry set the mood for your next romantic interlude. Who can resist "You Stole My Heart," "Girl of My Dreams," "I Just Want You?"
Happy Trails: The Roy Rogers Collection (1937-1990)
Rhino Records, (800) 432-0020; http://www.rhino.com
This three-CD collection will gladden the hearts of cowboy music fans still mourning the death of the "King of the Cowboys" last year. Assisted by Roy's family and friends, Rhino has gathered 94 tracks that provide a sweeping musical history of the famous singing cowboy. Coming from movie, radio, and TV performances, as well as rehearsals, the collection has a song for every fan. The oldest recording, "That Pioneer Mother of Mine," dates from 1937. Roy recorded the last ("Alive and Kickin'") in 1990.
Many of the songs are solos, showcasing Roy's expressive voice. But we also get to hear Rogers sing many duets with Dale Evans. Sons of the Pioneers fans are in for a special treat, as they accompany Roy on more than three dozen songs. Recall that Roy was the only person elected twice to the Country Music Hall of Fame, first for his work with the Pioneers and then solo. This attractive boxed set also includes an informative, well-illustrated booklet.
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©1999 Cowboys & Indians
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