Search - Nobukazu Takemura :: 10th

Friendly Melodies

Andrew C. Raymond | Greensboro, NC USA | 04/08/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"When I think of Nobkazu Takemura I think of glitch and youthful, naive melodies. This album falls much heavier on the melodies. This isn't a bad thing, but those of you who recoil from anything resembling an happy, hummable tune should steer yourself away from this Takemura release. (Try his glitchier album Scope).If you are at all familiar with the previous Takemura release Hoshi No Koe, this album is similar in style to that album's "Sign." There's a readily discernable melody in almost every track. These songs are airy and innocent and very much consistent, at least thematically, with his other work.10th also features extensive use of computer vocals. However, this isn't the played-out human-voice-modified-in-the-studio deal. Imagine Stephen Hawking's computer voice serenading you and you'll have some idea of what I mean. This effect can either be charming or grating depending on your taste.If you like what I've described then you'll love Nobukazu Takemura's 10th. If not, don't give up on him entirely. Takemura's music has incredible range. Try Scope or his work under Child's View."