Reviewed by Liam Hawthorne

In the vast and ever-growing catalog of Native American flute music, Songs of the Sacred Spirit by KO-NA is a largely undiscovered gem. Released in 2015 and available on Spotify, this album embodies a heartfelt connection to tradition while offering a distinctive voice that sets it apart. Despite its relative obscurity—with most tracks still waiting to find their audience—Songs of the Sacred Spirit deserves recognition for its artistry and depth.

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A defining characteristic of this album is KO-NA’s use of a near-constant vibrato, a stylistic choice that immediately evokes the legacy of Doc Tate Nevaquaya’s Comanche Flute Music. This expressive vibrato lends the tracks a living, breathing quality, as though the flute itself is infused with the spirit of the sacred.

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The album opens with “Roaring Falls of the River,” a dynamic and evocative piece that has, perhaps unsurprisingly, become the most-streamed track on the album. The melody cascades like the river it is named for, its energetic vibrato imitating the rush of water over stone. This track sets the tone for the album with its vivid imagery and emotional resonance.

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“For All My Native People” is a heartfelt tribute, carrying a deep sense of reverence and pride. The melody feels like a call to unity, its earnest simplicity underpinned by KO-NA’s masterful control of phrasing and ornamentation.

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“The Brave and the Bold” stands out for its spirited and resolute character. The flute’s voice is strong and assertive, embodying the courage celebrated in the title. There is a narrative quality to this track, as if it tells the story of warriors and their enduring legacy.

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“Song of the Snow Birds” takes a gentler turn, offering a melody that is light and playful, like birds flitting through a winter sky. The vibrato here is particularly striking, mimicking the trill of avian calls and adding a touch of whimsy to the album’s otherwise solemn tone.

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Closing the album is “Way of Life,” a reflective and meditative piece that feels like a summation of the album’s themes. It carries the weight of tradition while looking forward with hope, offering a quiet yet powerful conclusion to the journey.

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Rating: 4/5

Songs of the Sacred Spirit may not yet have found its audience, but KO-NA’s artistry shines through in every track. The near-constant vibrato adds an expressive depth that resonates with the spirit of tradition, while the compositions themselves are both accessible and profound. For those who appreciate the emotive power of the Native American flute, this album is a treasure waiting to be discovered.