Céline Dessberg masterful performance on the yatga (the traditional Mongolian harp) on “Selenge” perfectly lines up with the psychedelic R&B flavor of the rest of the track. The effect is a set of rhythms and melodies that transcend originating cultural context, Dessberg herself having French and Mongolian ancestry. Her performance on the instrumental as evidenced in the video takes an ancient instrument and translates it into the eclectic aesthetics of modern jazz without losing the old world appeal of the sounds. She seems to effortlessly orchestrate the song with an elegant composition like a web of tones and texture paired with visuals that show older images of Mongolian culture as the song is almost a reminder that the Mongols once held sway over an international empire that integrated cultural and artistic influences along with its more fearsome reputation—a complex legacy with rich traditions. Dessberg’s brings past and present together in a way that lingers with you and hits as timeless and not anchored to modern musical subgenre much less beholden to older musical forms. Watch the video for “Selenge” on YouTube and follow Dessberg at the links below. The song is out now as a limited 7” vinyl out via That’s Love Records as well as digital download and on streaming platforms.
Queen City Sounds and Art 
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