Details

Ya Tseen is the Indigenous electro-soul moniker of Alaska’s Nicholas Galanin, one of the most vital voices in contemporary art and music today. 

Born in Sitka, Alaska, Galanin is Tlingit (Klinkit) and Unangax (Oo-nun-gahx) and creates art from his perspective as an Indigenous man. Spanning sculpture, video, installation, photography, jewellery and music, he explores and advocates for Indigenous sovereignty, racial, social, and environmental justice for present and future generations through his multi-disciplinary work. 

Indian Yard is Ya Tseen’s debut album for Sub Pop, but this is far from Galanin’s first album. He has released a stream of records under an array of aliases, including Silver Jackson and Indian Agent. Rich with emotional range and sharp awareness, Indian Yard is a profound record of liberation and an implicit act of protest, making its case by facing the intersection of past, present, and future realities. Collaborating with a cast of friends and fellow music-makers including bandmates Zak Wass and Otis Calvin III, plus Benjamin Verdoes, Shabazz Palaces, Nick Hakim and fellow Indigenous Alaskan singer and songwriter Qacung, Indian Yard is a cascade of intensely current pop wonders. Oscillating artfully between lusty electro-soul, lithe funk frolicking and compelling intensity, Ya Tseen is spurring a vital contemporary musical conversation alongside the likes of Moses Sumney, TV on the Radio, FKA Twigs and James Blake.

Overflowing with authenticity, socio-political resonance, and humanity, Ya Tseen is an essential musical experience for those who are globally conscious and creatively curious. 

Please note, the audience is seated on the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall stage for this performance, giving you an up-close and personal music experience with the artists. Tickets are general admission.

Post-Concert Talk

Following the concert, join First Nations curator Neil Morris and Ya Tseen for a 20 minute Q & A.

Caring for Our Community

Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. A range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures are currently in place. Click here to learn more.

Artists

Ya Tseen (Nicholas Galanin) vocals, guitar, keys
Zak Wass vocals, guitar
Stephen Blanchett vocals

Praise for Ya Tseen

‘Activist, musician, visual artist – the performer is always breaking down boundaries. His collab-heavy new album is potent, tender and all about togetherness’ – The Guardian

‘Ya Tseen’s vision on Indian Yard is expansive and yet feels fully realized. It’s hard to imagine an album covering more ground and still striking such a precise balance of cohesion and variety.’ – Pop Matters