nêhiyawak, a Canadian Indigenous band, hails from amiskwaciy (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 territory, embedding their cultural roots deeply into their music. The trio consists of vocalist and guitarist Kris Harper, drummer Marek Tyler, and keyboardist Matthew Cardinal, who collectively name their band after the Plains Cree word for "Cree people." Their sound is a distinctive blend of traditional Indigenous influences and contemporary indie-rock, which they infuse with storytelling and themes inspired by their heritage, social justice, and personal narratives.
Their body of work, including recent releases such as "nipiy" (2019) and the resonant "disappear" (2019), demonstrates an evocative fusion of ambient textures, pulsating rhythms, and haunting melodies, all underpinned by a distinctively modern Indigenous perspective. Other notable creations are "ôtênaw" alongside its accompanying "Ôtênaw (Original Film Score)," where nêhiyawak transcends musical boundaries to score a film that explores histories and present-day realities of Indigenous urban spaces. "starlight," from their album "nipiy" is another testament to their capability to weave ethereal soundscapes that resonate with emotionally charged lyrics. With their thought-provoking and innovative music, nêhiyawak does not only provide an auditory experience but also invites listeners to ponder the stories and heritage that shape their craft.
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