Iglulik’s Terry Uyarak has dropped the second track from his upcoming debut album, Nunarjua Isulinginniani.
The latest single, Anuri, features fellow Nunavut artist and Polaris Music Prize nominee Riit. Anuri is a cover song, written by the late Solomon Uyarasuk, who was a dear friend of Terry.
“I dedicate this song to the friends and family of Solomon and the many children who are named after him” says Terry.
“Riit is an amazing artist that inspires me to continue in music and in life. We will continue to write and sing again sooner or later.” says Uyarak.
“I feel honored to be a part of this project,” says Riit. “As a collaborator, but most importantly as a friend. These songs are deeply meaningful coming from knowledge keepers – this is what the universe has been waiting for.”
Nunarjua Isulinginniani, which will be released in full on Oct. 30, showcases Uyarak’s song writing and interludes of storytelling by Iglulik Elder Simon Qamaniq.
“The land is our source and our being. The land has always been our trouble and our freedom. The land has been my ancestor’s stories and have become my story,” says Uyarak.
Nunarjua Isulinginniani, which translates as “before the world ends,” is produced by Jace Lasek and is on the Aakuluk Music label.
“The album itself carefully weaves together storytelling, soundscape and song to carry each listener on a journey, by dog team, to the ends of the world,” Aakuluk Music states.
Nunavut artists Becky Han and Celina Kalluk also contributed to the album.
I just heard Nunarjua Isulinginniani : The sounds of the winds, the straightforward singing, the voices…..all are haunting, and gave me shivers up the back of my spine and neck.
I visited Iqaluit and Pond Inlet in 2019, so I have a tiny insight into life in the Far North. Thank you, Terry Uyarak.
Ingrid Kern, retired Nurse, Ontario