On Media: The New & Improved Representation of the Native Mythos

Hovagimyan mentions, very early on, how the mechanical and industrial advancements of the past century have changed the way tribal mythos are expressed. Immediately, I think of A Tribe Called Red. More generally, I believe music to be the most consistent medium in relating cultures' stories, beliefs, and mindsets. However, there seems to be a discongruence as of late with mainstream music, at least here in the States. Cultural identity seems utterly lost in mainstream pop and rock music. But in hip hop and electronic music, ahhh, there is so much more expression. Now, I am entirely biased; being partial to these later music stylings I see them as generally more creative and thought provoking. Additionally, these are the chosen styles of the misrepresented and minorities, groups that are more likely to actively search for traditional cultural roots as well as create new ones in response to their disenfranchised status. 

The author brings up the abundant use of sampling in hip hop and electronica. From this method of music creation sprouts a music environment that readily mixes medias. Movies, speeches, and other songs are all fair game to be manipulated into new art. The very basis of these genres (hip hop and electronic) is the use of intermedia, and this quality allows for an unequaled amount of creativity when addressing political concerns. It also allows a meta-culture to flourish as these underrepresented communities speak out for recognition. Music, and in turn the entirety of their cultures, mix. 

A Tribe Called Red is very much an example of this evolving nature of identity through music. Members of the First Nations, they come from a culture that is currently dying. Music, language, dress; all victims to 300 years of a hostile invasion. In order to celebrate, and remember, their communal past, ATCR has enveloped many aspect of urban music to carry their people's heritage. This is not without a growth and acceptance of alternative narratives, however. Their name in and of itself is in tribute to A Tribe Called Quest, an extremely influential rap group from the mid 1990s. They not only mix hip hop culture, but reggae, moombahton, and dubstep to create modern powwow that represents them and their community. 

The video below is a live performance of ATCR. It address cultural appropriation, history, and representations of them by non aboriginals in mainstream culture. But even more amazing is the mix of cultures. The show revolves around a celebration of heritage. Dancing and art abound, from the traditional spirit dancing on stage and off, to the audiences representations of their own cultures through dress and other mediums.(I most enjoyed the kilt!) ATCR mixes this song live, so it is a living, transforming performance that responds to the audiences energy and perception. G. H. Hovagimyan states, "The new cultural mythos is mapping out of human society that is extended into its technology and in a sustained symbiosis with that technos," which the video below showcases in real time. And thats pretty awesome. 

Braves RMX by ATCR on Soundcloud