A critical look
Adam Weiner | 01/02/2001
(3 out of 5 stars)
"As an American Living in Japan these many years, I have tried in earnest to absorb as much of the culture as I possibly can before I leave. However, upon hearing the traditional drumming which is a treat reserved mostly for major holidays, I must admit I have narrowed my focus of interest (to this). Kodo is a fine troupe and their Sensei is indeed a master, but I must say that there is a "commercial" feel to the cd release. Understandably, with an international release an aritist must include a certain "wider audience appeal" factor, but this has taken the album too far from tradition. There is a purity and clarity in what one experiences live at a celebration; complimenting the drums will usually be no more than a gong, bamboo shaft and cast bell. The addition of flutes and excessive "encouragement" shouts sounds a bit "Westernized". I still recommend this title to the uninitiated as an introduction to Taiko (albeit in a New Age genre sort of way)."
Stirring stuff
Smithy | Redcar, Cleveland Great Britain | 06/23/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The mood of this music is perfect, with a mixture of soul shaking pieces to stir even the sleepiest of listeners - I found it fantastic for the car - then couple these with the classic blend of shakahatchi, koto and voice then you have an album with a definate wow factor. Excellent - this is my 4th Japanese music album and the more I listen the more I realise what a music scene traditional Japan is hiding from the mainstream."