In a striking blend of heavy metal and traditional Taiwanese culture, Efflore, one of Taiwan's strongest emerging metal bands, has released a new single titled "Ì-À-Koo (The Chair Oujia)." The song brings to life a nearly forgotten Taiwanese divination ritual, casting a spotlight on a unique cultural practice that has largely disappeared in modern times.
The ritual of "Ì-À-Koo" involved unmarried women using an overturned chair, adorned with symbolic items, as a conduit to communicate with spirits. This ancient form of divination, similar to the Western Ouija board, is believed to have once been a common practice among young women in Taiwan. However, as the years have passed, the ritual has faded into obscurity, known by only a few.
Efflore's new single not only revives this fascinating piece of Taiwanese history but also incorporates traditional instruments such as the Yue Qin, also known as the Moon Guitar, and percussion typically heard in Taiwanese temple fairs. These elements are seamlessly woven into the band’s signature symphonic black metal sound, creating a track that is both innovative and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.
The lyrics of "Ì-À-Koo" are sung in Taiwanese and include fragments of the original incantations used in the ritual, adding an authentic and haunting dimension to the music. Efflore’s approach to music has always been characterized by its commitment to preserving and reimagining Taiwanese folklore, and this latest release is no exception. With "Ì-À-Koo," Efflore not only delivers a powerful and atmospheric track but also invites listeners to explore a lesser-known aspect of Taiwan’s rich cultural tapestry.
As the band continues to push the boundaries of metal music, they also reaffirm their role as custodians of Taiwan’s folklore, ensuring that these ancient stories and traditions are not lost to time.
"Ì-À-Koo" can be enjoyed on Bandcamp here:
https://effloretw.bandcamp.com/track/the-chair-ouija
Instagram: @effloreband
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EffloreTW/
Bandcamp: effloretw.bandcamp.com/
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