Sacred Spirit

Sacred Spirit sounds like a panoramic view of a landscape you have only visited in dreams. It is a dense, atmospheric blend of traditional indigenous vocal samples, particularly Native American chants, layered over the kind of sophisticated, mid-tempo electronic grooves that defined the 90s chillout era. The music feels expansive and deeply reverent, using heavy reverb and shimmering synth pads to create a sense of infinite space.

What makes this project distinctive is the specific way Claus Zundel treats the human voice. Rather than using vocals as a lead melody, he treats them as a sacred texture, looping and processing chants until they become part of the rhythmic foundation. This is combined with organic-sounding percussion and occasional jazz or blues flourishes, creating a 'global' sound that feels both high-tech and primordial.

Start with the 1995 debut, often titled 'Chants and Dances of the Native Americans'. It contains the hit 'Yeha-Noha' and perfectly encapsulates the project's ability to turn traditional field recordings into accessible, hypnotic pop-ambient masterpieces. It is the definitive entry point for anyone looking to understand the intersection of New Age and 90s electronica.