A journey that began as a search for heritage and ancestry became an exploration of family long gone. Rich with conflict, sacrifice, and death; filled with hope and resolve, the journey resulted in an understanding and reverence for Comanche legacy and pride – Apryl Allen’s birthright.

Respect for her ancestors and their way of life is integral to the real-life stories retold on Na Unu Nahai (ShapeShifter) and is supported by documents and oral history from family elders. This process has been as much a rite of passage as a musical endeavor. Apryl is respectful yet forthright in her assessments and is proud of her Comanche heritage and honors it through her music.

Na Unu Nahai (ShapeShifter) made its debut on Morningstar and was instrumental in modifying The Recording Academy’s submittal and qualification requirements for the Native American GRAMMY category in 2008 — sadly, this GRAMMY category no longer exists.

In 2009 Na Unu Nahai (ShapeShifter) was honored with four nominations by the Native American Music Awards (NAMMYs) and went on to win Best Pop Recording that year. Apryl was inducted at that time as an Advisory Member of the NAMMYs.

Na Unu Nahai (ShapeShifter) qualified for seven GRAMMY categories at the 2010 Recording Academy GRAMMY Awards.

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