Alash wowed the crowd at Barbes in Brooklyn, NY Monday evening, April 16, with their inspired performance of “new old Tuvan music.” Their superior musicianship and fresh new arrangements of ancient Tuvan songs clearly resonated with the audience, who were bouncing in their saddles to Ayan-ool Sam’s demonstration of ezenggileer, a style of singing that imitates of the sound of boots rhythmically tapping silver stirrups. One audience member was even holding imaginary reins.
Alash is an impressive ambassador for Tuvan culture. The musicians – Bady-Dorzhu Ondar, Ayan-ool Sam, Mai-ool Sedip, and Ayan Shirizhik – radiated with enthusiasm for their music and the joy of performing. Sean Quirk’s witty and informed commentary bridged the cultural and musical gap for the American audience. Their world music concert was a world class experience.