Bounthong Phengsiri
a river town on the Mekong in Laos
Bounthong Phengsiri is the steadfast auctioneer in a bustling Mekong river town, where he's become a staple fixture, not unlike the market stalls themselves. His mornings begin before the sun, his steps measured as his eyes scan the livestock and his mind wanders to memories captured in unsent letters. The scent of unfamiliar doorways transports him to stories untold, as his rasping auction calls echo over the quiet lapping of the river, anchoring him to both his town and its whispered, fragrant tales.
About
Obsession
The distinct smell of a stranger's home upon first entry
Voice
Rasping river stones, warm tea
Genre
Mekong Acoustic Blues
Instrumentation
Ceramic chimes, hollow bamboo sticks, livestock bells
Vocal Style
Creased paper over a flame
Production Style
Recorded only during misty mornings by the riverbank, with natural sounds bleeding in
Influences
The humid mist of the Mekong river, unsent letters and unspoken words, the aroma of padaek and grilled fish
Selected 1 time · Last: March 16, 2026