Wapna'Kik: The People of the Dawn (CD)

Wapna'kik (The People of the Dawn) by Mi'kmaq musical group Sons of Membertou foregrounds the powerful voices of their people. First released in 1995, Wapna'kik documents a vital resurgence of the Membertou community's music practices. The 2025 updated edition by Smithsonian Folkways includes "Mi'kmaq Honour Song" and "500 Years," introducing a new generation of singers and musicians. Their addition to the album exemplifies the diversity of Mi'kmaq sonic and poetic expressions, which continue, as they have for centuries, to incorporate global influences. Drums play a central role throughout the album, uniting generations of those who strengthen Mi'kmaq language and culture through these songs.

Track List

1. The People of the Dawn/Wejkwita'jik (The Gathering Song)
2. Sma'knis (Veterans' Song)
3. Kepmite'tmnej (Mi'kmaq Honour Song)
4. The Mountain/Mukla'qati
5. 500 Years
6. Kwan'to'te'
7. Kwa'nu'te'
8. Ko'jua (Partridge Dance)
9. The People of the Dawn/Kniskamijinaq (The Ancestors' Song)"