Tanya Tagaq: Inuit throat singing, vocal improvisation and a collaboration with Björk

Tanya Tagaq Gillis belongs to that rare group of artists whose work inspires both delight and astonishment at the very first encounter. Describing her simply as an Inuit throat singer does no justice to the Canadian's creative potential. “Orchestral”, “hip-hop-inspired” and “primal” are just some of the terms journalists and critics have used in attempting to describe Tagaq's compositions.

Tanya Tagaq's astonishing vocal abilities captivated Bjork, who invited her to collaborate on the recording sessions for one of her most acclaimed works, “Medulla”. Tanya not only contributed vocals to several compositions but also co-wrote “Ancestors” with the Icelandic artist, showcasing her innovative approach to throat singing.

Tagaq's second solo album, “Auk/Blood”, was released in late August 2008. It was made in distinguished company: alongside Canadian guests including MC Buck 65 and beatboxer Shamik, it features Mike Patton, who undertook to release “Auk” on his own Ipecac label.

Many observers agree that the Inuit artist, who experiments with form and sound, is at her best live. Improvising in performance, she leads listeners into slightly different territory every time.

When Tagaq took part in American string ensemble The Kronos Quartet's “Nunavut” project, its founder David Harrington described her in these words: “[…] I don't know any singer like Tanya Tagaq. With throat singing, she performs parts that would normally require two or more people. She does it all herself, and live, too. She's truly incredible.”

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