Marina Raye - Heart of the Mother (1994)

Marina Raye has often been called "the feminine voice of the Native American flute." Her independent releases on her Native Heart Music label feature her exotic flute melodies amidst light rhythms and an occasional subtle synth. Heart of the Mother is a large soundscape comprised of samples, drones, and Raye's spacy flute. The only processing is amplification, but her flute has tones and textures that give this set a genuine space music appeal. Raye is a genuine person and the real deal. Her heartfelt style is deeply spiritual. (Her husband, Charlie Oakwood, makes all of her flutes and they sell handmade flutes from her website.) Fans of Mary Youngblood, R. Carlos Nakai, Robert Tree Cody, Little Wolf Band, and Coyote Oldman will enjoy this CD. It is essential for all fans of Native American music.~ Review by Jim Brenholts