In Buddhism, “Mahayana” is “the Greater Vessel.” It is the school of thought that says final personal enlightenment is unattainable without complete global enlightenment. In other words, everyone counts, everyone is included, all beings are essential and valued.

Enlightenment is awakening. This is the inspiration for the title to our CD.

Our cover features a mask created, shaped and formed by the endangered Huichol people in the Sierra Madre Occidental region of central Mexico. They have been relatively unspoiled by the delusions permeating North American culture, but they also live in relative poverty owing to their marginalization in a larger culture obsessed by conquest and consumption.

Mahayana’s music seeks to awaken us from our slumber of denial and open our lives to the possibilities of a future in which all beings are honored and cared for—whether animal, vegetable, or natural spirits. The music is a celebration of life through an eclectic blend of folk, rock, reggae, and jazz. While you play this CD, we urge you to kick off your shoes, throw away your illusions, and dance your heart out.