What's Happening?
The Chicago-based trio Black Duck, consisting of Douglas McCombs, Bill MacKay, and Charles Rumback, has teamed up with Basque musician Elena Setién for a collaborative debut album. The album, titled 'Black Duck With Elena Setién,' is set to release on August
28th via Thrill Jockey. The collaboration was born from a series of Spanish shows in early 2025, where the artists frequently performed together, leading to a natural synergy that they decided to capture in the studio. The lead single, 'Land of the Many Eyes,' was inspired by the plight of Indigenous peoples and resonates with the history of Chicago, originally named shikaakwa by the Potawatomi. The recording took place at Chicago's Palisade studio with sound engineer Nick Broste, who is known for his collaborative approach to sound engineering.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration highlights the blending of diverse musical backgrounds and cultural influences, bringing attention to Indigenous issues through art. The project not only showcases the talents of the individual artists but also emphasizes the power of music as a medium for social commentary. By drawing inspiration from Indigenous themes, the album contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the rights and recognition of Indigenous communities. The involvement of a sound engineer who treats sound as an instrument further underscores the innovative nature of this project, potentially influencing future collaborations in the music industry.
What's Next?
As the release date approaches, anticipation is likely to build among fans of both Black Duck and Elena Setién. The album's themes may spark discussions and interest in Indigenous issues, potentially leading to further artistic projects or collaborations that address similar topics. The music industry may also take note of the unique recording process and the emphasis on improvisation, which could inspire other artists to explore similar creative approaches.
