“Singers and Musicians are beings who have tasted life’s nectar in that crystal moment when they poured out their creative spirit and touched another’s heart. In that instant, they were as close to magic, God, and perfection as anyone could ever be.” (Los Angeles Times critic, David Ackert)
S. K. Thoth and Lila’Angelique have prayformed as Tribal Baroque since 2009, sharing their musical vision through a combination of prayer and performance. Their art is so much more than that, though. While incorporating opera, violin, percussion, vocals, and dance, Tribal Baroque’s prayformances are a dramatic catalyst for connection, whether between one’s own higher power, family and friends, or simply artist and audience, an artistic communion.
Thoth’s countertenor adds weight to Lila’Angelique’s floating soprano, and in turn, her vocals lighten his. In addition to the vocal tension, elaborate make-up and attire give their performances an other-worldly, yet uniquely warm and inviting quality; angelic-featured Lila, her shocking pale, translucent skin, blue eyes, and pink and white hair, a startling contrast to the fierce Thoth, clad in warrior regalia and dark makeup. Theirs is music infused with drama, surprise, wonder, and spontaneity with its elements of gypsy jazz, traditional classical, folk, opera, Gregorian chant, ballet and modern dance
Happening upon this duo in the Angel Tunnel at Central Park’s Bethesda Terrace, where in 2009 they first collaborated musically, was an unexpected and welcome gift on a lovely Saturday afternoon. Sometimes the universe gives in the most surprising and wonderful of ways.
For a peek into Tribal Baroque’s world, please visit their website here.
