Hanggai Big Band Brass 2019

Hanggai have been performing interpretations of traditional music from both Inner Mongolia in China (where they hail from) and the independent republic of Mongolia to the north for some time. Their influences also include rock and it is for this, in association with Mongolian khöömii (throat singing), that they are best known. Learning khöömii from university professor and master throat singer B Odsuren, they began a new Inner Mongolian tradition. The first sounds of the opening track, ‘The Swan’, are as far away from the sound of Mongolia as you can imagine. A slick jazz/soul 15-piece brass section pumps out a fully harmonised riff, while electric guitars, bass and drums contribute a rock element. It is only when the compressed vocals enter that a particular aspect of the Mongolian sound-world is heard.

Surprisingly there is very little melodic overtone singing on the CD, though there is some undertone singing (which is produced with a different technique). The best track featuring undertone singing is ‘Gunagen Ulaan Bataar’, basically a tight 7/8 rock'n'roll. But for those who love the iconic overtone singing or traditional Mongolian horse-head fiddle, it would be better to choose one of their earlier releases. However, with this sense of experimentation, Hanggai will hopefully broaden their fan base.