WAK
Paul K. Ross | 08/04/2002
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Last year I attended a Keiko Matsui concert with a friend. I would not have gone by myself because I am not a big fan of "smooth jazz". Near the end of the concert, Kazu came out and played two pieces. I was awaked from my drowsy state by the piercing, ethereal sound of the shakuhachi. I was therefore very excited when I discovered that Kazu had recorded a CD. However, I was generally disappointed when I listened to the songs. Kazu recorded this with Keiko. Therein lies the problem. There much too much Keiko - solos, interludes, etc and not enough Kazu. The shakuhachi is too often not the focal point and barely audible. Will I throw the CD out? No, the music is worth listening to. But, my advice to Kazu is to cut the umbilical cord with Keiko. The music will be far more interesting."
A Master Steps Out of the Shadows!!
Paul K. Ross | Seattle, WA | 03/10/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Most shakuhachi recordings are sad, meditative Zen solo pieces. These recordings show the control of the player...but the music is just for meditation and not for listening pleasure. On this album Kazu Matsui has blended the hollow, meditative sound of the shakuhachi with piano and synthesizer for a truly wonderful experience. Listen to "Up in the Sky" ...he shows great control of his flute and a melodic side that few shakuhachi players ever reveal."