Band Review: Jeremy Dutcher

Jeremy Dutcher is a singer from Toronto, Canada. I became aware of him through Digital Drum.

There are two things that are especially important about him, especially as it pertains to his album Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa.

One is that Dutcher has Wolastoq roots that he incorporates into his music. Also, he does this as a musicologist and classically trained tenor.

I don't want to get away from the musical ability. Dutcher's voice soars beautifully. The opening track, "Mehcinut", reminds me of "Ave Maria" in how it combines drama with a sense of the sacred, a sense that is very appropriate here.

The album rearranges field recordings from the 1900s, interpreting them in a way that I think requires someone with both a intense caring for the language and people, but also a deep musical understanding.

On "Eqpahak" he speaks as well as sings, and he talks about bringing the music back and bringing the people back. The interviewer challenges that a little, though I don't think it is disrespectful. Dutcher's defense felt right to me. I feel it in two ways beyond the thought of ancestors coming back and listening and being happy to hear their songs revived, though I will not discount that at all. Not all listeners have to do that in the flash.

As well, music is extremely powerful in evoking feelings and sensations. That can operate on behalf of history and legacy.

Beyond that, I remember the ending of the Roots remake from 2016, where old pictures would come to life, and you would know and recognize individuals in them because you knew their story. Music can connect, and be a bridge.

I believe Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa can do that. If these songs are specific to Wolastoq, that does not inhibit them from having meaning, and inspiration, for others.



https://jeremydutcher.com/

https://www.facebook.com/jdutchermusic/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjZpuqAKFSQ-3ay8l0i6cVA

https://twitter.com/jdutchermusic