Bennington Theater is presenting Pamyua this Saturday, June 22nd, at 7:00 PM. Hailing from Alaska, they're a Yup'ik Inuit band who labels themselves as Inuit Soul and Tribal Funk.
I've seen them & was in awe of their brilliant harmonies, dances, & the stories they told through their songs. You, too, may have already heard them without realizing it. They sang & co-wrote the theme song for PBS's "Molly of Denali", & they made two appearances performing their music on ABC's excellent former series, "Alaska Daily" (the greatest show ever to be cancelled!) They've played the Kennedy Center in D.C., headlined the first L.A. Global Music Festival, and won the Record of the Year Nammy (Native American Music Award) for one of their albums.
And you're wondering, "What kind of music is this?" Their unique style and sound comes from blending traditional Yup'ik & Inuit drum and voice songs with contemporary vocalizations, outstanding harmonies, modern instruments, and R & B and Soul music, to which they've added cultural dances and symbolic native masks. This blending is inspired and influenced by music from around the world, including South Africa's Ladysmith Black Mambazo (from Paul Simon's album, "Graceland.")
Pamyua is a Yup'ik Inuit word meaning Encore, and you'll be calling for one at the end of the show. They are G-Rated so every age can enjoy the stories they tell of their ancestors & culture through their songs & dance.
They've been performing their music around the world for over two decades. It was a real coup to get them to Bennington. Spice up - and cool off (Bennington Theater has A/C!) - your usually boring Saturday evening and come to experience their unforgettable Inuit Soul. One show only, so don't miss them. A/C!
You can get tickets and pick your seats by going to their website - benningtontheater.org - or calling (802)500-5500, and can also get tickets the night of the show.