npr.org
Harpist Ashley Jackson's "Take Me to The Water" Reimagines Spirituals
Ashley Jackson's new album, "Take Me to The Water," reimagines African American spirituals, exploring coded messages of freedom and hope through innovative harp arrangements and techniques, drawing inspiration from her childhood experiences and the works of Alice Coltrane, Margaret Bonds, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
- How does Ashley Jackson's use of musical techniques and arrangements reflect her diverse musical background and artistic vision?
- Jackson's album connects personal experiences with historical context, weaving together her childhood memories of church services with the coded language of spirituals used by enslaved people. The use of water as a symbol of freedom reflects both literal escape routes and broader concepts of rebirth and hope, highlighting the dual meanings embedded in the spirituals' lyrics. This approach creates a powerful narrative linking past struggles with present-day artistic expression.
- What is the central theme of Ashley Jackson's new album, "Take Me to The Water," and how does it connect to broader cultural and historical contexts?
- Ashley Jackson's new album, "Take Me to The Water," reimagines African American spirituals, using coded messages of freedom as a central theme. The album features arrangements of works by Alice Coltrane, Margaret Bonds, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, showcasing Jackson's classical training and diverse musical influences, including folk, jazz, and West African rhythms. Her innovative techniques, such as using socks to mute harp strings, create unique sonic textures.
- What potential impact might Ashley Jackson's album have on audiences during a time of global uncertainty and how might it contribute to cultural dialogue?
- The album's release during a time of global anxiety suggests a potential for its music to offer solace and unity. Jackson's innovative approach to traditional spirituals may inspire new interpretations of culturally significant music and foster cross-cultural dialogue. The album's exploration of themes of freedom and hope could resonate deeply with audiences seeking meaning and resilience in challenging times.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is overwhelmingly positive, focusing on Jackson's artistry, musical talent, and personal experiences. While this celebrates her achievements, it could be seen as biased by omission if it failed to acknowledge any potential criticisms or controversies surrounding her work. The headline (if there were one) would significantly influence this; a positive headline would reinforce the framing, while a more neutral or critical one might balance the piece. The introduction clearly sets a positive tone, emphasizing Jackson's musical talent and spiritual connection.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and celebratory, employing words like "mellifluous," "evocative," and "beautiful." While these are descriptive, they are also subjective and lean towards praise. A more neutral approach might use less emotionally charged language, perhaps substituting descriptions focusing on musical technique rather than emotional impact.
Bias by Omission
The interview focuses heavily on Ashley Jackson's musical journey and the spiritual context of her album. While it touches upon the historical significance of spirituals, it doesn't delve deeply into the complexities of the coded language or the varied interpretations of water as a symbol of freedom. There is no mention of potential criticisms of the album or alternative perspectives on its artistic merit or historical interpretations. This omission might limit a reader's ability to form a complete understanding of the album's context and reception. However, given the interview format and limited time, this omission might be unintentional rather than a deliberate bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The album uses spirituals, which were coded messages of freedom for enslaved people, highlighting the struggle for justice and freedom. The music serves as a form of cultural preservation and remembrance, promoting understanding and reconciliation.