The tiny republic of Tuva is a giant when it comes to mastery of the human voice. The ancient tradition of throat singing (xoomei in Tuvan) developed among the nomadic herdsmen of Central Asia. Passed down through the generations, but largely unheard by the outside world, xoomei is now the subject of international fascination and has become Tuva's best known export.
Alash are masters of this ancient art. What distinguishes this gifted young group from earlier generations of Tuvan throat singers is the subtle infusion of modern influences into their traditional music. One can find complex harmonies, western instruments, and contemporary song forms in Alash's music, but its overall sound and spirit are decidedly Tuvan.
