Search - B. C. Smith :: Smoke Signals: Music From The Miramax Motion Picture

Poetic, moving, spiritual journey.

Veggiechiliqueen | 01/25/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"At times the soundtrack to Smoke Signals is lighthearted, like the laugh-out-loud novelty of the Eaglebear Singers chanting a song called "John Wayne's Teeth." At other times it is a hummable road song, like "Reservation Blues" or "A Million Miles Away." But most of the time it is a journey, a journey of remembrance, questions, pain, and, like the phoenix, rising from the ashes and soaring.I loved the two songs by Ulali, one of which ("All My Relations") can be found on their album Mahk Jchi. Their haunting acapella chants really made "Forgive Our Fathers Suite" the best song on the soundtrack even though it was difficult to choose a favourite. The song is eerie, powerful, connected, a plea. Pounding drums and near-guttural chants open the track, but near the middle there is a sudden transition to a gentle three-part harmony flowing like the river, a sense of tension being released, of past ghosts freed and worries laid to rest.The music ranges from quiet guitar and flute, Native flute and percussion ("Charles Bronson"), chant and guitar ("Victor's Run Suite,")to a mixture of rock and Native influence ("On Fire Suite," "Fourth of July"). Many of Thomas's storytelling songs have the exact same introduction ("Hippy Arnold," "Good Day for Breakfast," and "Fry Bread Riot" all sound suspiciously similar although it does lend continuity to the setting).This is one of the best soundtracks I've ever invested in. There are a variety of songs spanning a number of genres, all Native, all representing different aspects of who we are and where we are going. It is always touching, powerful, and an awakening whenever I listen to it. If you are searching for something or if your journey is only beginning, pick up a copy of "Smoke Signals" to help you on your path."

Outstanding New Age Mixed With Old Taste

Dale Moomaw | Weatherford, Texas | 01/29/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Smoke Signals Soundtrack is incredible. I grew up on the Colville Indian Res, and was able to listen to great Pow Wow music most of my life. This soundtrack really puts my life into perspective. There is some old style music mixed with a new sound. This CD can really give you a taste of it all. I now live in Ft. Worth, TX and work in very busy Trauma-ER. Everyday on my way home I listen to a few songs on the Smoke Signals soundtrack. I also have a few Jim Boyd CD's. He can really get you up spiritually when you are down."

Current-day American Indian feel.

Dale Moomaw | 08/27/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have yet to buy the cd, but I have listened to the entire thing several times, many times standing rooted to the floor of the local book and music store. the guitar sometimes does get in the way, but that is the part that the "younger generation" of American Indians identify with. The film is fantastic, and the soundtrack follows much the same way. The film and music brought tears to my eyes, and laughter to my heart, as i remembered the stories my own father and grandmother told me of living on a reservation. Both the film and the soundtrack will be in my mind and heart."