A cappella groups shines on CD

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It's been eight years since Asani burst onto the music scene with their unique sound that combines First Nation and Metis-inspired songs and themes and presents them in a modern a cappella style. The group's latest CD, Rattle & Drum, features 11 original songs written by Asani members, past and present.

With only rattles and drums, and the occasional flute, to accompany them, the members of Asani-Sherryl Sewepagaham, Sarah Pocklington and Debbie Houle-use their voices as their instruments. Their ability to do so flawlessly has won them fans across Canada and around the world. Asani has performed for such dignitaries as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Prince Philip and Te Arikinui, Dame Te Atairangikaahu, the Maori Queen of New Zealand, and has entertained audiences as far away as Finland.

All three members of the group are Aboriginal women and mothers, and those roles are reflected in many of the songs on their newest CD. They sing of the challenges of being an Aboriginal woman in songs like Bill C-31 Blues and Rez Sister. And they sing of children and of hope for the future in Oti Nikan and The Goodnight Song.

The album also includes songs of celebration, including Niwiciwakan, a contemporary Cree blessing song, and Rattle Dance, written to honor women of the past, present and future.

Weyaho, a song celebrating life, can also be found on the album. The song was written by Cathy Sewell, a founding member of Asani, who passed away on Aug. 23, 2001.