The Melawmen Collective, a music group with ties to the Nuu-chah-nulth people, has released its first album. Based in Ashcroft, British Columbia, the ensemble blends contemporary Indigenous fusion with various genres. The group will perform for local audiences as part of an upcoming tour.
The Melawmen Collective announced the release of its debut album, marking a significant step for the group rooted in Indigenous musical traditions. Formed in Ashcroft, B.C., the collective's sound is characterized as contemporary Indigenous fusion, incorporating elements of hip hop, rock and blues, country, global beats, righteous rhymes, and rich harmonies. This style is described as being carried through with experience, manifestation, and visions of intergenerational stories focused on pain and healing.
The name 'Melawmen' holds cultural significance, translating to 'medicine' in the Secwepemc language. Key members include vocalists Meeka Morgan and Kiva Morgan-Hall, who are of Secwepemc descent and also Nuu-chah-nulth-aht from the Toquaht First Nation. Their involvement highlights the group's connection to First Nations heritage, particularly the Nuu-chah-nulth community.
As part of the promotion, the Melawmen Collective plans to visit local areas to perform for audiences, bringing their music to communities familiar with these cultural narratives. The album's release aligns with broader efforts in Indigenous arts to share stories of resilience and recovery through creative expression. No specific tour dates were detailed in the announcement, but the focus remains on engaging local listeners with live performances.