Darkspark is a musical non-profit that promotes cross-cultural storytelling, and the organization has spearheaded a new EP called Four Directions Vol. 1. Created by Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, it mixes modern songwriting with lyrics about colonial history, with the aim of spreading a conversation about reconciliation.
The full six-song EP will be released on December 6, and the single "Taught by the Best" can be heard today.
This song was recorded by Grade 7-8 students from Maani Ulujuk Ilinniarvik School in Rankin Inlet, NU. It explores Inuit traditions through the lens of atmospheric, trap-tinged hip-hop, with lyrics that pay tribute to past generations.
Inuk Elder Quluaq Pilakapsi said in a statement, "We are living in a cold place, a frozen land, which is what our culture is based on. Before we lose the Elders who know more than us, we must gather as much information as possible from them to pass onto the next generation. I thank [Darkspark] for coming here. By sharing knowledge we can help each other."
UPDATE (12/6, 5:30 p.m. EST): Four Directions Vol. 1 has now arrived. Listen to the full EP below.
Check out a lyric video for "Taught by the Best" below. Also below, check out an eight-minute mini-doc about Rankin Inlet and the creation of the new song.
The full six-song EP will be released on December 6, and the single "Taught by the Best" can be heard today.
This song was recorded by Grade 7-8 students from Maani Ulujuk Ilinniarvik School in Rankin Inlet, NU. It explores Inuit traditions through the lens of atmospheric, trap-tinged hip-hop, with lyrics that pay tribute to past generations.
Inuk Elder Quluaq Pilakapsi said in a statement, "We are living in a cold place, a frozen land, which is what our culture is based on. Before we lose the Elders who know more than us, we must gather as much information as possible from them to pass onto the next generation. I thank [Darkspark] for coming here. By sharing knowledge we can help each other."
UPDATE (12/6, 5:30 p.m. EST): Four Directions Vol. 1 has now arrived. Listen to the full EP below.
Check out a lyric video for "Taught by the Best" below. Also below, check out an eight-minute mini-doc about Rankin Inlet and the creation of the new song.
