Altai Kai is a folk band from Altai Republic of Russian Federation founded by Urmat Yntaev in 1997. The band consists of two female and four male members. Their music features throat singing what is called kai in Altaic language, and several native musical instruments such as komuz and topshur. The subject of their music is often the nature and history of Altai, and heroism of its people.
This might be my favourite of Heilung. They've improved a bit on their later releases but their debut is still much meaner, and darker. Maria's amazing voice obviously steals the show but I also quite like Kai's too, especially on the live performance. In fact I'd say get LIFA over this IMO.
The spoken word bits are really cool to hear proto-germanic in use but for relistening purposes they are going to be a bit obtrusive. Nevertheless the proper music here is on continual repeat for me. Rabbit
The influence of steel guitar on genres like Delta blues and country has long been underrepresented; this compilation aims to set the record straight. Bandcamp Album of the Day May 5, 2022