Under the Dragon Tree marks the groundbreaking debut of Wild Mushrooms, a band hailing from Yunnan and the first to bring the music of the Hani people to a wider audience. With deep roots in Hani traditions, the band defies external pressures to conform by primarily singing in their native language, crafting an authentic and culturally rich soundscape that blends the ancient with the modern.
The album
takes inspiration from the Hani people’s revered totem, the mythical dragon,
and the sacred dragon trees found in every village. These trees are central to
Hani spiritual life, serving as places for rituals and connecting the community
to their complex and largely undiscovered spirit world. Under the Dragon
Tree embodies this fusion of past and present, featuring both traditional
Hani music and innovative compositions.
Musically, the album journeys through a mix of spirit-calling chants, hypnotic rhythms, and contemporary elements such as psychedelic rock, reggae, and electronic music. This unique blend offers listeners an immersive glimpse into the mystical traditions of the Hani while reflecting on their evolving cultural identity.
Experimental
yet accessible, Under the Dragon Tree is a mesmerizing sonic exploration
that bridges the gap between heritage and modernity, bringing the hidden world
of the Hani people to light.
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