Allowing myself to be enveloped in “Tierra,” the latest offering by Michael Beck and Chandra Lacombe, the soft scent of bergamot wafts up, awakening a deep yearning to connect with the natural world this single so masterfully embodies.
The tapestry of emotions from Michael Beck’s soulful vocals weaves me into a place where the rhythms of the earth speak to the pulse of my heart, as the whispers of ancient secrets fall from Chandra Lacombe’s fingers onto the kalimba, and Txai Fernando murmurs sweet nothings to the wind on his flute. Moussa Diallo provides the heartbeat on bass, Uriel Seri the percussion heartbeat, while Sudha provides supporting vocals of leaves dancing softly.
In fact, “Tierra” is much more than the sonic tapestry’s call to unity, a celebration of our connectivity with things that remind one of beauty and strength in harmony concerning the current challenges faced upon this earth.
I couldn’t also help but make comparisons between “Tierra” and the works of Hildegard von Bingen since Beck and Lacombe get deep into spirituality beyond borders and boundaries.
That said, for all its beauty, “Tierra” is far from faultless on occasion, the production can feel a mite overly polished, the edges sanded down to a smooth, commercial sheen. The small niggle does little to deter from the impact of this release, though.
As the last notes die away, I am left to reflect on Rumi’s words: “Raise your words, not your voice.” “Tierra” stands as testimony to a few soft, persistent voices that even at the bleakest moments, beauty and unity can take the fore.
Follow Michael Beck on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
