Acclaimed JUNO-nominated drummer, producer, and composer Salin has shared new single “Rammana,” the captivating title track and final preview from her just released LP, Rammana.
“Rammana” draws inspiration from a traditional folk song of the Urak Lawoi, the indigenous sea nomads of South Thailand. This powerful song, integral to the Plajak Ceremony, marks the beginning and end of the rainy season, invoking spirits of the island through a hypnotic blend of violin, drums, and vocal chants. Salin invites listeners to join this celebration, encouraging them to chant “ma-chai-yo!” (มาไชโย), meaning “cheers!” in the local language.
Salin’s vision extends into a visually stunning music video reimagining the traditional Rammana, historically performed by men, and placing women at the forefront of her modern interpretation. “I wanted to shift and explore how women could lead this ancient tradition,” Salin explains. “I wanted to express the complex challenges we face in the modern world, while at the core we can relate to each other. Even when the world has become so chaotic, we can still come together to celebrate just as the Urark Lawoi do.” This sentiment is brought to life through the video’s central concept, “Harmony of the Souls,” through four musicians, each embodying a spirit from the four regions of Thailand:
- North: The candle dance (การฟ้อนเทียน) harmonizing with the violin.
- Northeast: The Phi Ta Khon (ผีตาโขน) festival is depicted resonating with the Phin guitar.
- Central: The Khon (โขน) masked dance drama aligns with the sound of the trumpet.
- South: The Manora (มโนราห์), a mythical bird princess is resurrected from the sea is synchronized with the rhythmic Rammana drums.
“These spirits are at the heart of these regions,” says Salin. “Their connection is essential to understanding the cultural narrative of ‘Rammana’.”
Salin is a Thai-born, Canada-based Juno-nominated drummer, producer and composer. Her current music explores the enchanting sounds of Northeast Thailand and marries it with the 70’s psychedelia of West Africa, all through the lens of modern soulful production. Through her music, she ponders themes of identity, spirituality, and humanity, all paired with a dose of fun to create a unique sonic journey for her listeners.
