In an era where musical innovation often stems from the most unexpected places, “Alaska Borealis” emerges as a luminous testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the unyielding spirit of artistry. This groundbreaking album, a brainchild of seasoned Wu-Tang Clan member Killah Priest and an ensemble of vibrant Alaskan artists, promises to redefine the boundaries of hip-hop and propel the Alaskan music scene into the global spotlight.
“Alaska Borealis” is not just an album; it’s a cultural event, a fusion of Killah Priest’s esoteric lyrical mastery with the raw, unfiltered talent of Alaskan musicians. The title, reminiscent of the awe-inspiring aurora borealis, aptly captures the album’s essence—an eclectic mix of sounds and themes that dance across the sonic spectrum, much like the Northern Lights across Alaskan skies.
Killah Priest, known for his spiritually charged and metaphor-laden verses, has lent his voice to a project that transcends typical hip-hop narratives. His decision to collaborate without monetary compensation speaks volumes about his commitment to art and his belief in the emerging talent of Alaska. Priest’s involvement is not merely a feature; it’s a catalyst, giving these artists a platform to showcase their unique voices to a broader audience.
The album boasts an impressive lineup of Alaskan artists, each bringing their distinct flavor to the project. From the Afro-Indigenous rhythms of Air Jazz, who raps in Tlingit, to the pop-infused beats of Zansler, “Alaska Borealis” is a kaleidoscope of styles that mirrors the diversity of Alaska itself.
Air Jazz’s tracks, “Uncle Tomahawk” and “Bonfire,” serve as powerful representations of Indigenous pride and resilience, blending East Coast influences with the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people. His work on this album is not just about music; it’s a statement, a call to embrace and celebrate Indigenous identity within the broader hip-hop narrative.
Radiophonic, alongside Air Jazz in their duo Radiophonic Jazz, contributes to the track “Dance,” a vibrant ode to the joy and connection found on the dance floor. It’s a song that contrasts beautifully with Killah Priest’s more introspective style, yet complements it in a way that only such a diverse collaboration could achieve.
Zansler, a non-binary artist whose style traverses pop, hip-hop, and R&B, delivers “Yesterday,” a track that encapsulates the album’s ethos of bridging worlds—personal and universal, local and global. With its conscious rap undertones and polished production, the song is a shining example of how Alaskan artists are expanding the horizons of their craft.
The sonic wizardry behind “Alaska Borealis” owes much to the meticulous engineering of Jbo Audioe at Juneau’s Second2None Sound studio. His experience in sound design, combined with a deep understanding of storytelling through music, has given the album a cohesive yet diverse sound.
Jbo’s approach to mixing and mastering this album was more than just technical; it was an act of storytelling, ensuring that each track not only sounded great but also conveyed the unique personality and identity of the artists involved. His commitment to the project, echoing Killah Priest’s own, reflects a shared belief in the transformative power of music and the importance of supporting emerging talent.
The album’s release was celebrated with a vibrant concert in Juneau, where artists like Zansler, Radiophonic, and Air Jazz, alongside Killah Priest, captivated an enthusiastic crowd. This event marked not just the launch of an album, but the beginning of a journey—a journey that aims to bring the voices of Alaskan artists to a global stage.
With the album now available on major streaming platforms, the excitement is palpable. A CD release is also on the horizon, with copies set aside for radio stations, ensuring that “Alaska Borealis” reaches as many ears as possible. The artists’ dreams of expanding their reach and creating a sustainable platform for future Alaskan hip-hop talents are now within grasp.
“Alaska Borealis” is more than a musical project; it’s a cultural bridge, linking the remote and often overlooked artistic communities of Alaska with the vast, interconnected world of hip-hop. By fusing the profound lyrical insights of Killah Priest with the fresh perspectives of Alaskan artists, this album stands as a beacon of what is possible when diverse voices come together to create something truly extraordinary.
This project is a reminder that hip-hop, at its core, is about storytelling—stories of struggle, triumph, identity, and place. “Alaska Borealis” tells these stories with a sincerity and passion that is both refreshing and deeply moving. It’s an album that will not only resonate with hip-hop aficionados but also with anyone who appreciates music that speaks to the soul.
The full artist and track list includes: “RPO (Dance)”, “Phonetic (Word to the Wise)”, “Zansler (Yesterday)”, “Alaska Redd (Deadly Combo)”, “Airjazz (Uncle Tomahawk)”, “Lance Mitchell (Stand)” and “Airjazz (Bonfire)”. These songs are awash with meticulous rapping, sublime and soulful singing, as well as vibrant, warm and colorful musical backdrops to match each performance.
As the Northern Lights continue to dance across the skies, so too will the sounds of “Alaska Borealis” echo across the musical landscape, illuminating the path for a new generation of artists from the Last Frontier. This album is a celebration of life, culture, and the unbreakable spirit of creativity—a must-listen for anyone seeking to experience the true power of music.
OFFICIAL LINKS: SPOTIFY – STREAMS
