Nechochwen - Algonkian Mythos

January 5, 2009

Reviewer: Peter

Music can be one of those things that can be rewarding, not just for those who listen to it, but for the people who make it as well.  Nowhere is this more evident than in the folk music scene.  While the styles vary from country to country, there is a universal theme that not only invokes the most pleasant of emotions, but also honors one’s ancestors.

West Virginia’s Nechochwen comes from Native American ancestry and the name itself means “He who walks alone.”  While the musician himself isn’t new to music, this is one of his first solo efforts in which he takes time to explore his own past and in doing so, allows others in on the experience.  The new album Algonkian Mythos is more than just a folk album that features some excellent acoustic guitar work.  It is a journey into life that will soothe and in some cases, even inspire others into looking further into the subject matter that the album is about.

Since Algonkian Mythos is primarily an acoustic guitar showcase, there isn’t much in the way of vocals, apart from the chants that can be heard on “Talgayeeta” and “Pilawah.”  In fact, like most neo-folk projects, Nechochwen doesn’t rely heavily on either drums or anything that can keep rhythm.  The acoustic guitar is pretty much the jack of all trades, as not only does it create the rhythms in which the mind can keep in step with, it also creates much of the atmosphere.  That is not to say that there isn’t any help to go along with the guitar.  There are Native American sounds that provide background, as well as sounds of rushing water and even some low chants characteristic of Native Americans.  The rather minimalist approach doesn’t flood the consciousness with too many things, which makes it easy to take in the compositions.  What makes Algonkian Mythos well worth the time is that it takes the listener on a trip back in time from a mental standpoint.  All of that is helped by the fact that the parts are composed in a way that not only makes for easy listening, but also allows for the mind to organize what is being put out there.  Music lovers, as well history buffs, will find much to take from the album.

Overall, Algonkian Mythos is an album that is for those who find comfort in deep thought.  Obviously, that means getting in the right frame of mind in the same manner that one would for meditation.  Of course, the album isn’t just limited, as it also may provide some history from a neutral perspective.  If you like good acoustic guitar playing, neofolk, or are one of those people who are interested in history, then Nechochwen has the album for you in Algonkian Mythos.  This is one of those albums where the music speaks for itself, and sometimes it is just best to put on the album and let your mind wander to the music.

Release Date: 2008
Label: Dark Horizon Records

TRACK LISTING

1. A Blistering Fusilade
2. Fallen Timbers
3. Algonkian Mythos
4. Coffin of the Flesh
5. Talgayeeta
6. Gnadenhutten
7. Cut-ta-ho-tha
8. Pilawah
9. Nilu-famu
10. West Across the Missi-theepi

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