Leave a comment Posted on Music, South America

Beavers at the End of the World

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Tierra del Fuego has a rodent problem. This mythical world of islands and penguins and forests is being taken over by Canadian beavers, and the plan is to kill 100,000 of them over the next 10 years. Beaver clubbing will become the new national sport of Argentina and Chile. It’s a very strange situation, and as a Canadian I’m not quite sure if I should be apologetic or upset.

Anyways, the music of the region is fantastic. We explore a wealth of classy rock music, and the last of the native Selk’nam singers. And yes, there is even a song about beavers.

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Leave a comment Posted on Europe, Music

Castle Musique Concrète

Savoie castle

Currently on the market for 5.5 million Euros, this castle is virtually seige-proof.

Sonically frolic in a land of castles and Europe’s tallest mountain peaks. The Savoy Region, now shared between France, Switzerland and Italy, was home to one of Europe’s most prosperous states for hundreds of years. The House of Savoy even founded the modern republic of Italy. But let’s not worry much about duchys and dukes… Here comes a musical feast of ancient and futurist inclinations:

And if you like the scene, perhaps consider buying a castle in the area. You can shout insults at the commoners below and invade neighbouring castles to expand your empire. Just like the good ol’ days.

Leave a comment Posted on Asia, East Asia, Music

A Mystical Land // The North of Japan

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From left to right: Japanese tourist, teenage bear, Ainu couple.

The island of Hokkaido is a world of wonder and mystery. For this musical journey, we are joined by experimental multi-media artist/dancer, Sammy Chien, who recently visited Hokkaido and shares with us his experiences with the native Ainu people.

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Taiwanese artist Sammy Chien

There are fascinating and disturbing parallels between the Ainu of Japan and First Nations cultures of Canada, a history of colonization and oppression – yet both groups are reclaiming their homeland and moving forward with dignity and hope.

Behold a mix of Hokkaido music – folk, rock, hip hop and more. Kane inuma!