Our Pick: Garry Oker - Ride (2011)

Artist—Garry Oker
Song—Ride
Album—Ride (2011)
Label—Independent

Garry Oker is an artist who has gone beyond the single medium most artists get pigeon holed into. This cd shows he is still evolving. This album of music is Oker’s musical journey into his Aboriginal identity. As one can appreciate, spirituality is part and parcel with Aboriginal culture and Oker allows us to join him in his discovering and sharing of his renewed warrior spirit.

The feel of a concept album should be noted as there is a flow from one song to another. Each song representing the journey of self discovery and Indigenous perspectives on moral and ethical standards. You should read the liner notes on the inside package as it sets the stage for listening to this musical montage. The easy going acoustic melodies are gentle on the ears. The words and presentation have an honesty to them that will connect for others on a similar spiritual and cultural journey. Oker reminds us of the four principles of his culture; Respect, Discipline, Ceremony and Honour.

Oker demonstrates that the hybrid of Aboriginal music, instruments and rhythms blend well with modern contemporary music as the two music styles weave a flow that is very much a ride of music with cultural wisdom thrown in. The first time you listen to this album, if you can find a quiet peaceful place to listen, you’ll appreciate the depth of the art Garry Oker shares with you.

As one quote inside the album cover states, “It’s time to Indian Up and Ride, Damn it!” This might be the album you’ll ride off listening to.