NOUS X LARAAJI AND ARJI OCEANANDA - "GIVING PRAISE"

We are big Nous fans and even bigger Laraaji fans here at the Tome. Besides his seminal recordings, his collaborations with new generations of musicians has been really inspiring. Getting to spend time with him at the Columbia Experimental Music Festival was also a major positive experience. Hearing his baritone soar over this endlessly groovy, locked in composition from Christopher Bono’s NOUS project is a joyous flash of life. If you are unfamiliar with NOUS, the sprawling project includes: Thor Harris (Swans), Greg Fox (Ben Frost), Shahzad Ismaily (Yoko Ono, Laurie Anderson), Grey McMurray (Tyondai Braxton), Anthony Molina (Mercury Rev), Cecilie Hafstad and Kevin McMahon. Laaraji and fellow sound healer Arji OceAnda join the troupe adding their vocalizations, chanting and lyrics. Laraaji explains his contributions as thus, ““I think the theme of the circle and celebration that runs through what we created on that special day in Dreamland is really important,” reflects Laraaji. “A circle is endless, and we wanted the listener to feel like they’re in this circle with us, in a joyous, ritualistic celebration. We wanted to create a sense of celebration and joy where you’re not so much a spectator as you are a participant, where you’re inside with us, not listening in from the outside. The listening experience should allow the listener to feel that they’re included in this circle with us, even if they’re only jamming along with their imagination. To me, these pieces feel like an invitation to look at what’s going on in your life – or has gone on in your life – that’s worthy of celebration while you’re listening to this album.”