Achai, the Tuvan word for “father,” is the theme of the Tuvan four-piece’s third studio album and first for Smithsonian Folkways. The music honors Kongar-ool Ondar, the late master throat singer, teacher and tireless musical ambassador who served not only as a musical father for the ensemble, but also for an entire generation of Tuvan musicians. In addition to guitar and bayan accordion, these songs feature traditional Tuvan instruments and those associated with the religious practices of Tibetan Buddhists.

Contact: Andrea Evenson