As a founding member of the Cathedral Lakes Singers, one of the country's most popular Native American singing groups, Jay Begaye's name should be familiar to most aficionados of Native American music. But for newcomers, Honoring Our Ways should be an eye-opening treat. While many Native American singers are content to merely record their own versions of traditional songs, Begaye is a first-rate vocalist who also composes his own pieces, all of them rooted in his culture's ancient, sacred musical traditions. The opening track, a new arrangement of "The Lord's Prayer," reveals the soulful, contemplative healing powers of the Native American sound. On other tracks, such as "Honor Your Drum" and "The Earth Is Our Mother," Begaye's powerful voice rings with a spiritual beauty and gentle grace that cuts right to your soul. A fine introduction to the Native American sound.
© Bret Love /TiVo