Genghis Blues (1999)

Partially sighted blues musician Paul Peña has become fascinated with the ancient musical traditions of the central Asian province of Tuva. Sandwiched between Mongolia and Russia, this previously independent nation joined the USSR and is now a largely autonomous part of the Federation run from it’s only city Kyzyl. Peña and his friends have been invited to their unique “throat-singing” competition and so make their way, via Moscow, from San Francisco to learn more. What they find upon arrival is an ancient society that welcomes them and their curiosity with open arms and compared with the constrictions of his city life at home, Peña finds things here much more relaxed. He embraces their culture and is soon writing songs in their native language and making a solid fist of singing in their kargyraa style. There are many styles that differ in tone and texture and these are pretty much projected from their larynxes rather than enunciated using our more familiar methods - a little like ventriloquism. This musical expedition also gives them (and us) an excuse to explore their country, sip their local vodka (delivered in what looks like a ten gallon water can) and test out the local cuisine before the big night in an auditorium packed with discerning locals. These visitors even manage to find themselves reliant on the local medical facilities and perhaps, even, earning the ire of a mystical drum - but it’s all presented respectfully for a society that values it’s customs, takes care of it’s guests and knows how to survive in what is frequently an inclement environment. The production is all adequately cobbled together using hand held photography that relies largely on natural light and audio, so it doesn’t always look great - but the overwhelming sense of generosity of these Tuvans paired with an eclectic group of enthusiastic fans who actively want to become immersed in the place rather than take their own country abroad helps deliver a documentary that’s maybe a bit too long, but still an enjoyable travelogue with a very original soundtrack.