“UNDER THE DRAGON TREE” By wild Mushrooms

“Under the Dragon Tree”, the latest offering by Wild Mushrooms, is a mesmerizing exploration of the ancient and spiritual world of the Hani tribe from Yunnan, South-west China. Through its masterful fusion of traditional instruments, haunting vocals, and modern influences like psychedelic rock, reggae, and electronic music, the album invites listeners on a journey that feels both timeless and innovative. With six carefully crafted tracks, it captures the heart of Hani culture while pushing the boundaries of what world music can achieve.

The opening track, “Le Zuo,” sets the tone for the album with its hypnotic rhythms and evocative instrumentation. A powerful introduction, it acts as a ceremonial awakening, immersing listeners in the earthy sounds of the Hani tribe. Traditional drums and flutes intertwine with subtle electronic textures, creating a soundscape that feels simultaneously ancient and futuristic. The track gradually builds to a crescendo, as if inviting the listener into a sacred ritual under the titular dragon tree.

Following this, “Mountain Awakening” takes a more introspective approach. It’s a sonic ode to the majestic mountains of Yunnan, blending the natural sounds of the environment with resonant string instruments and a gentle reggae groove. The interplay between traditional melodies and modern rhythms highlights Wild Mushrooms’ ability to maintain cultural authenticity while experimenting with genre. The vocals, delivered with a raw and emotive quality, feel like a call to nature, evoking imagery of mist-covered peaks and ancient forests.

The album’s middle tracks, “The Squirrel” and “Su La Ku (Hani Calling of Spirit),” delve deeper into the spiritual and playful aspects of Hani culture. “The Squirrel” stands out as the most whimsical track, its lighthearted rhythm and playful instrumentation capturing the innocence and joy of the natural world. In contrast, “Su La Ku” is profoundly spiritual, relying heavily on the Hani tribe’s ritualistic chanting. Layered with atmospheric electronic beats, it creates an almost trance-like experience, blurring the line between the physical and spiritual realms. This contrast demonstrates the album’s versatility and the band’s ability to navigate different emotional landscapes.

One of the standout moments comes with “Hani Mili (Hani Girl),” which is perhaps the album’s most accessible track. It’s a tender and melodic piece that celebrates the beauty and resilience of Hani women. The song’s fusion of traditional vocals and reggae-inspired beats gives it a universal appeal, while the subtle use of electronic effects adds depth without overshadowing its cultural roots. The track feels like a love letter to the tribe’s heritage, balancing reverence with a sense of modernity.

The album concludes with “Folk Dance Song,” a vibrant and energetic track that captures the celebratory spirit of the Hani tribe. As its title suggests, this song is meant to inspire movement, blending traditional dance rhythms with pulsating basslines and psychedelic guitar riffs. It serves as the perfect closing note, leaving listeners with a sense of joy and connection to the Hani people’s festive traditions. “Under the Dragon Tree” is an exceptional album that transcends cultural and musical boundaries. Wild Mushrooms have succeeded in creating a work that is both deeply rooted in Hani tradition and refreshingly contemporary. The fusion of genres is seamless, and the band’s respect for the cultural material shines