Blood Sweat and Tears welcomes listeners to the Monogram Hunters’ Sunday night Indian practice at the First and Last Stop Bar. The chants and ringing tambourines of the Black Masking Indian tribe were recorded live at the 7th Ward establishment, capturing the authentic spirit of this long-standing tradition. The sound represents the closest one might come to experiencing the passion, power and fun of practices where unmasked members of the tribe hone and pass on their rituals to the next generation.
Carolyn Cushionberry, the co-owner of the corner bar, along with her husband, is the first voice heard on the double disc album. The recording is a series of oral histories told by the members of the Monogram Hunters that are interspersed with mostly traditional Indian songs. We hear from Big Chief Tyrone “Pie” Stevenson who informs us that masking Indian isn’t a competition, it’s “about being the best you can be.” Later, his son, Second Chief Jeremy “Lil Pie” Stevenson, tells how he came up through the ranks of the tribe and explains more about what goes on at an Indian practice.
Most people acquainted with the Black Indians will be familiar with the songs on the album such as “Golden Crown,” “Shallow Water” and “Two Way Pocky Way.” What makes listening to them presented in their pure form on this recording is that you can really hear the stories that are told in their chants. Often that’s difficult to do when the Indians are prowling or parading on the streets. The lyrics can be remembrances of times past, truly sacred in nature, full of humor or can also relate a serious message.
There are two original selections, Second Chief Jeremy’s “You Ain’t No Indian,” and Wildman Chito Pa’s “Meet Me on the Mound.” Both utilize the call and response structure of traditional songs and are a positive contribution to the Black Indian repertoire.
Blood Sweat and Tears, which is wonderfully packaged and includes comprehensive liner notes, should certainly be filling the air during Carnival season and would be an excellent resource for teachers and those seeking further knowledge on the Black Indian Nation. It’s the real deal.
