"Native North American Child: An Odyssey" Album Description:
Buffy Sainte-Marie's music has always been a powerful vehicle for her voice as an artist and an advocate for Indigenous rights. Released in 1974, the compilation album "Native North American Child: An Odyssey" serves as a potent reminder of this, encapsulating some of her most poignant songs from her time with Vanguard Records.
Themes of Heritage and Struggle
The album's title track, "Native North American Child," is a stirring lament for the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in North America. Sainte-Marie's lyrics are unflinching, painting a vivid picture of displacement, cultural erosion, and systemic oppression. Other tracks, like "My Country 'Tis of Thy People You're Dying" and "Now That the Buffalo's Gone," continue this unflinching critique of colonialism and its devastating impact.
Musical Journey
While Sainte-Marie is known for her folk roots, "Native North American Child: An Odysse" reveals the diversity of her musical expression. Songs like "Soldier Blue" incorporate elements of country music, while the haunting "Little Wheel Spin and Spin" showcases her mastery of understated vocal delivery. Even amongst the tracks focused on heavy themes, Sainte-Marie offers moments of beauty and resilience with songs like "He's an Indian Cowboy in the Rodeo".
A Retrospective
As a compilation album, "Native North American Child: An Odysse" offers listeners a retrospective of Sainte-Marie's impactful work during her Vanguard years. For new listeners, it serves as a powerful introduction to her artistry. For longtime fans, it acts as a reminder of both those essential works and her steadfast dedication to bringing Indigenous voices and experiences to the forefront.
