Search - Jansen, Barbieri, Karn :: Ism

A lasting collaboration

C. Newman | Washington, DC United States | 10/07/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The word I see most often used in reviews of Japan albums and the subsequent works of its members is "brilliant". Deservedly so: Jansen, Baribieri, and Karn, together with absent ex-Japan member David Sylvian, are four incredibly creative musical talents who collided into musical genius together in the early 1980's. The splintering of the band after "Tin Drum" broke a lot of hearts among fans and has seen the ex-members pursue different directions from that musical pinnacle. Jansen, Barbieri, and Karn have frequently worked together in various guises over the last two decades (Sylvian, too, for that matter), often obscure and difficult to find, but mostly exceptional work. "Ism" is the reward for the search, seeing the trio continue to explore musical styles and sounds. Some slippery dance grooves, a lot of quiet textured atmosphere. Jansen's smooth voice carries some tracks smoothly along, and others rock out to guest vocalist Zoe Niblett. As would be expected from the group, the music is rich and complex. The wide array of instruments (of JBK along with longtime contributors like David Torn's and Masammi Tsuchiya's unusual guitar treatments) is expertly blended. Check out the swelling intensity of "To the Core" and "Alone in His Shoes" and revel in the skilled songbuilding these folks bring together! A thoughly enjoyable, subtle, and diverse musical experience."