1783 (Gate)

In 1783, when the American War of Independence came to an end, over 3000 people of African descent left New York on 81 boats, sailing for Nova Scotia with the promise of land and freedom. Arriving in Nova Scotia, these so-called Black Loyalists were given the poorest housing, little food, few supplies - yet they survived and went on to spark a unique and vibrant culture in settlements across the province. Descended directly from those first settlers, Black Nova Scotian artist Lance Sampson (a.k.a. Aquakultre) has created a profound concept album fittingly entitled "1783" that is deeply rooted in this story and those of his ancestors. The 17-track album comprises 11 songs and 6 interludes, with each describing Black Nova Scotian history, thoughtful family stories, and intergenerational reflections. Seamlessly blending a wide range of historically Black music, "1783" has hints of gospel, blues, jazz, and soul, mixed in with vintage R&B overtones. Standout tracks include the first single, "Scotia Born", a catchy, celebratory anthem of regional pride. The hard-hitting "Gallows" which gives voice to Lance's great-great-grandfather Daniel P. Sampson, a WW1 veteran who in 1935 was wrongfully convicted of murder and became the last man to be executed by hanging in Halifax. "The Avenue" takes listeners on a breezy, nostalgic stroll through a historically significant Black neighbourhood in Dartmouth that has since been nearly gentrified out of existence. "Matriarchs" is a gut-wrenching duet between a man who's dancing with danger, and his single mother who tried to raise him right.At once sweeping and intimate, "1783" pays tribute to a uniquely resilient corner of the Black diaspora - and captures Aquakultre carrying the torch passed on to him from elders, acting as a beacon of light for a brighter future.