Catalytic Sound continues its Catalytic Artist Album fundraising program by releasing CAA-032 to the public, a recording by the trio of Mark Cisneros, Nik Francis, Luke Stewart, called We Were Here Before, Parts I and II. They have suggested that all donations received from the sale of this digital album should go to Empower DC (
www.empowerdc.org), which since 2003 "has advanced racial, economic and environmental justice by investing in the leadership and organized political power of DC’s lowest income residents and communities."
Since the beginning of the year, through this series of CAA recordings, Catalytic Sound has been able to raise $1,692 for organizations that work in solidarity with the Movement for Black Lives and social justice. Many thanks to Mark Cisneros, Nik Francis, Luke Stewart; Empower DC; and all of those who are able to donate and support causes like these.
WE WERE HERE BEFORE
This extended work consists of both composition and group improvisation. It is a collection of themes attempting to express deeply rooted feelings about the now and what has been. A collective memory of sorts. Or perhaps a kind of collective consciousness or genetic memory. This recording is an expression of this. Memories, reflections, and meditations on our ancestral experience of being people of color in this country.
This music is offered in the name of unity, identity, hope, and oneness.
Dedicated to the memory of Aaron Martin Jr.
I. Beginning - Family/Culture/Origin
II. Escape - Leaving/Searching/Taken
III. Crossings - Danger/Struggle/Unknown
IV. Equality - Rights/Assimilation/Bigotry
V. Identity - Work/Art/Pride/Family/Allies
VI. Action - Advocacy/Activism/Engagement
VII. New Beginning (Closing theme)