Search - Various Artists :: Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan)

Beautiful Instrumentals, Minimal Vocals

radartroop | Oklahoma City, USA | 02/08/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I really can't add to the other well written reviews other than to reassure those that don't much care for Japanese vocals (as one of the other reviewers said, usually an aquired taste to Occidental ears). There are only two tracks on the disc that contain vocals. Fortunately, in my case, this was the CD that got me over my distaste for Japanese traditional singing. Although I still prefer pure instrumental, I now perceive, albeit dimly, a certain beauty in the sparse, haunting singing. To put it more bluntly, it no longer makes me wince.Don't let your dislike of Japanese traditional vocals keep you from owning this CD: the music is phenomonal and it's a truly enriching experience to listen to."

Gripping and well-executed

Marion Edwards | Minneapolis, MN USA | 07/02/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Although recorded more than two decades ago, this is an excellent album for any lover of classical Japanese music to have. In small chamber ensembles, the members of Ensemble Nipponia prove themselves true masters of their craft, and weave an intricate tapestry of sound for the listener.Each piece is performed with exacting instrumental (and in one case vocal) technique combined with sensitive interpretation, making for a truly enjoyable musical experience. Drawn from the classical repertoire of both court and theater, the eight-piece program creates a good balance between the contemplative and the energetic, the gentle and the forceful. It also does a good job of representing a wide variety of traditional forms, while still maintaining a sense of continuity.Two tracks in particular stand out (in my view) as gems -- "Ogi no Mato (Folding Fan as a Target)," a lengthy narrative for biwa (lute) and voice, and "Godanginuta" for koto duet. The first is a quite passionately rendered tale, at times half-spoken, using a variety of vocal techniques unknown to Western audiences (and hence, perhaps, an acquired taste for some). "Godanginuta," in contrast, is a finely rendered musical scene, exuberant and yet refined... embodying the sounds of Japan perhaps most familiar to Western ears.Overall, I cannot recommend this album highly enough. Of the many "ongaku" (classical) albums in my personal collection, "Japan: Traditional Vocal & Instrumental Music" one remains my favorite."

A beautiful look into Japanese folk music.

brian avila | california | 03/08/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Japanaphiles who arent very familiar with Japanese culture, or just starting out, will enjoy the beautiful arrangements and compositions of the Nipponia Ensemble. Using traditional Japanese instruments such as the Shamisen, and the Koto, the ensemble paints vivid musical imagery that is both tragic and beautiful. A must have for those just getting interested in Japanese folk music."