Susan Aglukark - This Child (1995)

On this release, Aglukark consolidated her sound, and with the assistance of Chad Irschick (who had contributed to her 1992 release Arctic Rose) she managed to produce an album full of terrific songs with some heavy messages in the lyrics. This album crosses boundaries, so it is difficult to label its sound. Aglukark combines traditional native Canadian music with country and pop and produces a sound all of her own. Her voice is strong and clear throughout, and producer Irschick creates a tight backing for her. Listening to this album, it is no surprise that this CD gained her national exposure and provided her with her first hit singles ("O Siem," " Hina Na Ho," and "This Child"). All brilliant, heartfelt songs with wonderful melodies and crisp production. Native rights, family, and spirituality are the basic themes throughout, but Aglukark manages to do so without sounding preachy. This is a strong album and comes highly recommended for world music lovers.~© Aaron Badgley /TiVo