There are dozens of Native American-flute groups out there, but there's no one like Coyote Oldman. That's a group, not a person, named for the Native American mythological figure Oldman Coyote. But these coyotes aren't tri... more »cksters; they're sonic magicians. Michael Graham Allen and Barry Stramp play Native American flutes, Incan panpipes, and classical bass flute with melodies that ebb, flow, and morph through each other. Stramp adds electronic effects, creating shadow echoes and subliminal melodies like a pipe organ blowing across an infinite canyon. With their limited range, barely an octave, panpipes and Native American flutes aren't given to virtuoso displays. Coyote Oldman know that, so instead they explore the inner workings of their flutes' textured sound, putting a magnifying glass over resonances and shadings, building an abstract melodic architecture that vaporizes in this deep-space music for acoustic winds. --John Diliberto« less
There are dozens of Native American-flute groups out there, but there's no one like Coyote Oldman. That's a group, not a person, named for the Native American mythological figure Oldman Coyote. But these coyotes aren't tricksters; they're sonic magicians. Michael Graham Allen and Barry Stramp play Native American flutes, Incan panpipes, and classical bass flute with melodies that ebb, flow, and morph through each other. Stramp adds electronic effects, creating shadow echoes and subliminal melodies like a pipe organ blowing across an infinite canyon. With their limited range, barely an octave, panpipes and Native American flutes aren't given to virtuoso displays. Coyote Oldman know that, so instead they explore the inner workings of their flutes' textured sound, putting a magnifying glass over resonances and shadings, building an abstract melodic architecture that vaporizes in this deep-space music for acoustic winds. --John Diliberto
CD Reviews
PEACE AT WORK
James R. DeSalvio DO | Dunlap, Illinois USA | 03/24/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ambient music is new to me. I discovered this recording while looking for Native American music. This serves as background sound in my office and it puts me and my visitors in a better mood. All of the compositions are soothing and flow together as a concept. I hope to be able to play this outdoors, at sunrise, on the beach at Cape May, this summer. It will make a beautiful way to start the day. If you are in need of some spiritual sounds, this is the way to go."
Anhother solid recording from the ambient flute duo
Bill Binkelman, Wind and Wire | Minneapolis, MN United States | 01/26/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Coyote Oldman are among the most reliable artists in instrumental music today. Their new CD is another in a relatively long string of superlative deep ambient recordings. HOUSE MADE OF DAWN is mysterious without being dark, reflective without being maudlin or melodramatic and spacy without being gimmicky. That Barry Stramp and Michael Graham Allen do this using only flutes and studio magic never ceases to amaze me. The music on HOUSE MADE OF DAWN is perfect for very late listening or to accompany massage or intimate moments. The wooden flutes float effortlessly in the air yet since the music is ambient, no trace of "pop" sensibility mars the aesthetic (i.e. this is _not_ Nicholas Gunn). Recommended without reservation for people seeking a serene and calming sonic experience."
Lush and soothing
Christina P. Branson | Fort Collins | 10/07/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm no expert on Native American music, but I am a flute player, so I can certainly appreciate the skill evident on this CD. (I found the alto flute difficult enough to maintain breath control on, so the ability to play the bass flute *really* impresses me.)I'm a little skeptical of "mood music" in general, but this music lacks the cheesiness found in the many productions of lesser quality that seem to dominate the music racks. The textures are rich and relaxing, making this the perfect CD for lighting a few candles and curling up with a good book at the end of a rough day."
Stirs the Soul
AmethystRosee | chicago, IL | 05/31/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hauntingly beautiful with deep rich native flute melodies. The artists are definitely masters at their craft. One of the nice things about this one, is that it keeps basically the same rhythm throughout the tape. So if you are listening in a meditative way, it doesnt change to fast and loud at some point.This is one of my favorites. It allows us to take a deep breath and slow down,as it works its tranquil magic. Great background music for bodywork and meditation....feels like floating on a cloud!"