There are many kinds of great musical artists in the world, and they come with different skills and gifts, bringing with them both individual talents and the flavors of their native cultures. Some are great technicians, dazzling listeners with their sonic acrobatics; others compose intricate and lofty musical architecture, and still others impress with their inventive improvisations. Kaigal-ool Khovalyg represents one of the most unique types of artist: He has the ability to go straight to the heart of the listener, to move people. Of course, there is his sound, and this applies equally to his singing and igil playing. Take for example his gorgeous khoomei style, with its pulsating, shimmering harmonics, an aural equivalent to the Northern Lights. Similarly, his mastery of the igil, seemingly but deceptively effortless, conjures up a two-stringed symphony of tones, overtones and rhythm.
Steve Sklar
