REVIEW by THOTH of "Ode to Mother Earth" cassette
As it appeared in Samhain/Yule 1992 issue of Tides magazine.
Shaman
Ode to Mother Earth
Ode to Mother Earth is a delightful collection of songs which are filled with a sense of spiritual wonder. Most of the compositions evoke the majesty and splendor of our Mother Earth; all of them are enchanting. Some of my personal favorites include: "I Am the Ocean's Daughter"-- a hypnotically ecstatic melody which features well the robust vocals of Deirdre Stuart; "The Forest of My Dreams"--a haunting tale of an idyllic Arcady, set to a melody adapted from an Irish dance tune, which demonstrates the compelling lyrics and vocals of Brahm Stuart; and finally the inspiring pleas for environmental and ecological awareness--"Where Will We Go?""The Revenge of the Earth," and "The World We Leave"--are downright chilling in their poignancy. Though these are my favorites, the other songs dedicated to the Mother are equally satisfying.
The two remaining selections, though perhaps less Pagan in theme, are also enjoyable. "The King Came Down," a ballad adapted from an 11th century composition, relates the tale of a Beneficent King and is followed by a lively instrumental medieval dance. The song "Son of a Son" is a joyous celebration of one's ancestral lineage.
The complexity of the arrangements and the poetic beauty of the lyrics make this work a compelling, consistent and thoroughly refreshing addition to the world of Pagan music. This tape will move you from the somber to the ecstatic, and leave you wanting more.
In conclusion, if this review seems to abound with superlatives, it's because I highly recommend this tape. I also hope that the Pagan community will see more of Shaman at our festivals and gatherings.