Blue Mountain Tribe's "Oh Great Warrior": Blues Rock with a Powerful Message

Blue Mountain Tribe – Oh Great Warrior

Self Released

www.bluemountaintribe.com

10 tracks/44 minutes "Oh Great Warrior," the latest offering from Blue Mountain Tribe, is not just a blues rock album; it's a powerful call to awareness about the plight of Indigenous peoples. Father and son duo Robin and Caleb Hairston, hailing from Tehachipa, California, lead this blues rock band on a mission to shed light on the struggles faced by Indigenous communities. Through their music, they bring attention to historical injustices, contemporary challenges, and the need for change.

The album kicks off with the energetic blues rocker "Children on the Rez," setting the tone for what follows. With a driving rhythm, gritty harmonica solos, and searing guitar work, the track addresses the issues faced on reservations, using music as a medium for expressing the unspoken.

The slow blues "You Better Watch Yourself" unfolds with ethereal backing vocals engaging in a call-and-response, creating a haunting atmosphere. The song features soulful solos on both guitar and harp, adding depth to the narrative. "Hey Baby" introduces a boogie vibe, accompanied by lively calls and responses, showcasing the band's versatility and Caleb's adept guitar skills.

"Stronghold" is a driving and rocking blues anthem, emphasizing the pursuit of a safe and secure place. The track boasts powerful guitar and harmonica solos that resonate with intensity. "Pray for Our Planet" delivers a message about environmental concerns through rocking blues, featuring another round of impressive guitar and harp solos.

The band takes a playful turn with "Poor Man Blues," a shuffle that humorously addresses the reality of not getting rich playing the blues. Vibrant guitar and harmonica solos elevate the track, infusing it with infectious energy. "Serenity" slows down the tempo, presenting a beautiful ballad with Steven Rushingwind's enchanting flute adding an extra layer of emotion.

"Mountain Down Wind" returns with driving blues, featuring heavy guitar grooves and powerful instrumentation. The title track, "Oh Great Warrior," stands out as a hard-hitting blues rock anthem with a call for the Great Warrior to heed their pleas for help. The track is a culmination of the band's energy, with wicked licks on both guitar and harp.

The album concludes with "Sacred Flowers," a multifaceted piece blending traditional elements with acoustic rock vibes. The song paints a poignant picture of Mother Earth crying for its daughters, urging the return of sacred flowers. The influence of 1960s rock intertwines with layers of Indigenous music, creating a captivating and resonant finale.

Blue Mountain Tribe's "Oh Great Warrior" extends beyond being a musical experience; it's a platform for raising awareness and fostering understanding. The band's dedication to their cause has earned them recognition, including being named the top blues/rock band at the Native American Music Awards. This blues rock album is not just a collection of songs; it's a heartfelt journey with a message that demands to be heard.