After the success of their first album, Sonic Tribe quickly returned to the studio, recruiting new members for this more mature, laid-back follow-up. Picture it as the sunny morning after their self-titled album’s night of tribal fires–relaxed, but brimming with calm energy and the joy of the moment. Vocalist Gina Sala (of Cirque de Soleil) sings and chants here in an array of exotic languages, combining with Native American Scott Huckabay’s stellar guitar work, drums, tables, Australian didgeridoo, and horns to make timeless music.

The jazzy, psychedelic “wah-wah” wanderings of “Freedom Is Only a Door” and the passionate “Out of the Ashes,” with its gently rocking guitar and uninhibited vocal, are nothing short of transcendent. “Into the Twilight” sounds almost like contemporary jazz, as a healing, sultry Norah Jones-y vocal dances in and out of the light patterns created by Dean Everson’s flute. “Wayo” merges a funky, tribal vibe with some trance-inducing chanting. Bridging the distances between cultures, eras, and souls, SPIRIT RISING paints a joyous ode to the future–one full of dance, laughter, devotion, and peace.

TRACK LISTING:

1. Into Twilight
2. Chakra Dance
3. Spirit Rising
4. As the Eagle Flies
5. Wayo
6. Giulelle Mama
7. Celebration
8. Mirage
9. Freedom Is Only a Door
10. Out of the Ashes

TOTAL TIME: 60 Minutes