The Tamesis
Featuring some of Wayuhi’s most personal and introspective songs to date, bagona Featuring themes of self-reflection and vulnerability – often in the face of love or lust. “bagona “I’m inspired by my side-ho days,” admits Two-Spiritist Wayuhi. “I fell in love with people who were emotionally unavailable, so I had to consider how that affected me. I also wanted to strengthen my songwriting and bass playing skills. Much of what you hear is tailored to those exercises.”
For example, on the title track, Wayuhi delivers a catchy farewell to her former lover. “Your forgiveness is no longer my business,” he sings. “Don’t know what I’m doing, but at least I’m being myself.” On “Skylight Song,” he croons about trying to get away from someone. “Isn’t it when you move on and you only want what you don’t need anymore?” he sings.
Through it all, Wayushi also incorporated elements of his local culture, especially humor. “Girl, you’re a local—what are you doing sitting on your ass,” he sang on “Suckerz,” a song he collaborated with Awu on. “Didn’t you know you could enter any national park for free?”
Even better than his unique voice? Wayuhi’s personal style is evident in his live performances. (Wayuhi can often be seen on sets at events like the annual Santa Fe Indian Market, where he also walks.) “My style speaks to who I want to be and who got me here,” the artist says. His colorful wardrobe is filled with cool prints, beaded jewelry and plenty of sleeveless shirts, made from thrift items as well as contemporary Aboriginal designers like Jamie Okuma. “My style is based on unpredictability, novelty and the phrase ‘frugality and flair,’” Wayuhi said. “[I like] It’s not the price that matters when it comes to a unique piece – it’s more about the process of how you get it and who you get it from. “
