Music Review: Nahko and Medicine for The People – Dark as Night

Nahko and Medicine For The People is probably one of the most emotive recordings you will hear this year, maybe for several years. One which addresses the challenges of life and trauma.

Oregon-born Nahko was born Nahko was raised amongst intermingling identities; his origins are a mix of Apache, Puerto Rican and Filipino cultures. His Grandmother forced his Mother into prostitution at the age of 14 and his life began in an act of violence. Given up for adoption he lost contact with his native American heritage for over two decades, however under the care of his adoptive white middle class family he was taught to sing, write and play piano and guitar. Seeking out his real parents, Nahko went in a journey of self discovery and learnt the story of his traumatic past, which included the murder of his Father and Grandfather and his Grandmothers tragic suicide.

In what could have destroyed a lesser man, Nahko found a positive outlet in his music, healing himself through stories and songs, whilst also helping those he comes in contact with. Themes of self discovery, embracing the moment and particularly forgiveness are evident, a theme which runs through the album, particularly in the low-key soul ‘We Shall Overcome’ and the standout ‘San Quentin’ which tells the story of how Nahko visited one of Americas most notorious prisons to meet the man who killed his father, and forgive him. Religion is also explored through ‘Love Letters to God’.

Set out to unify and bridge cultural gaps, Nahko leads the listener on a journey. Part pop, part reggae, a little folk and indie with a dollop of rap thrown in, this latest masterpiece, his third album draws on a whole array of musical influences and styles. At nineteen tracks and almost eighty minutes, at times you feel you’ve heard parts of it before. At times it’s a little bit Coldplay, a little bit Eminem, but it really is something, a rare feet is achieved in that not once do you get bored or feel it’s overlong.

Vocally powerful, it’s clear that Nahko’s voice is something special, with every track therein lays a message. Sometimes emotional, Nahko pours his heart out over his heritage and beliefs, the result, like the album, is always a triumph.