Part of the Matheson Trust Sacred Audio Collection

This complex polyphony by the pygmies of the Ituri forest (Democratic Republic of the Congo) is an appeal to “Mother” and “Father” Forest, which responds by enabling contact with the Spirit-world, thus granting success to its children in the Elephant hunt. The Mbuti nomads, as Pygmy peoples in general, have one of the most ancient indigenous lineages in the world; their immemorial traditions establish a direct link with primordial times.

Elephant Hunting Song

With thanks to the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.