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Calusa

from RISE by Elaine Mahon

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about

Standing on a shell mound on the Gulf coast of Florida, I began to wonder what life would have been like as a woman of the Calusa, the most powerful indigenous tribe in Florida. This song is my first collaboration with my friend and fellow astronomer, Lisa Aschmann.

lyrics

Calusa
© 2012 Mary Elaine Mahon & Lisa Aschmann/Nashville Geographic (ASCAP)

We wait by the water, watch the tide as it rolls in
While the sun sinks beneath the waves
We search the horizon for the boats that bear our men
We knot our nets and count the days

The village feels empty like the missing tooth
That I trace over with my tongue
Still lies the water blanketing the oyster beds
I listen for their voices, hear no one … Calusa

(Chorus) We wait by the water, watch the tide as it rolls in
While the sun sinks beneath the waves
Upon the horizon, only seabirds sailing in
We knot our nets and count the days

We gather together like the seagulls on the beach
Work on our nets with worried hands
A call in the distance then the cackle of an owl
Sends a chill as it drifts ‘cross the sand … Calusa

(Chorus) We wait by the water, watch the tide as it rolls in
While the sun sinks beneath the waves
We search the horizon for the boats that bear our men
We knot our nets and count the days

The sound of their paddles drifts as music on the wind
Stirring the longing in my bones
Leaping like mullet we run schooling on the shore
Wading out to welcome them back home … Calusa

(Chorus) We wait by the water, watch the tide as it rolls in
While the sun sinks beneath the waves
Upon the horizon, only seabirds sailing in
Knots in our nets, a count of days … Calusa

credits

from RISE, track released January 29, 2017
Lead Vocals: Elaine Mahon
Harmony Vocals: Elaine Mahon
Acoustic Guitar: Elaine Mahon & Gabe Valla
Bass: Lon Williamson
Percussion: Dave Kelsay

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Elaine Mahon Gainesville, Florida

With her 2017 release, REACH FOR THE STARS, Elaine Mahon has written a collection of songs that evoke a sense of wonder while inspiring hope and offering empowerment. Mahon's songs reflect her perspective as an astronomer, while remaining deeply rooted in the natural world we all live in. Mahon performs solo at festivals, venues and house concerts in Florida and throughout the Southeastern US. ... more

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