Japanese Music V.5 Syakuhachi [Import]

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Japanese Music V.5 Syakuhachi,Various Artists,Sony/Columbia,World Music

Average customer rating: Amazing! More great music by Yoko Kano Most Beautiful and Amazing I Need Stand Alone Complex OST 3 Toccante

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Vol. 2 Yoko Kanno Manufacturer: Bandai ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - Be Human Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 06 (Episodes 21-23) Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 04 (Episodes 13-16) Wolf's Rain ASIN: B0009KQOUQ Release Date: 2005-08-23

Tracks:

1. Cyberbird
2. Rise
3. Ride on Technology
4. Idoling
5. I Can't Be Cool
6. 3Tops
7. Gonna Rice
8. Get9 - Jillmax, Yoko Kanno
9. Go da Da
10. Psychedelic Soul
11. What's It For
12. Living Inside the Shell
13. Pet Food
14. Security Off
15. To Tell the Truth
16. I Do
17. We Can't Be Cool

Description

From the popular series, "Ghost in the Shell: A Stand Alone Complex" arrives the original scores from the 2nd Season. Renowned composer, Yoko Kanno once again blends a magnificent array of stylish jazz, bouncing techno, thunderous rock and smooth ballads that only she can accomplish. 17 breathtaking tracks from the hit T.V. series aired on Cartoon Network. Song lyrics included in the CD insert. Genre Anime-CD Sountrack

Customer Reviews:

Amazing!.......2007-05-21

I don't drive anywhere without this album in my car. Yoko Kanno has taken her place at the top of my list of favorite composers. Her versatility blows me away. This soundtrack contains a great mixture of music types that stands well on its own besides working so well into the fabric of Ghost in the Shell: SAC. I have to say that the show just wouldn't be as good without her contributions.

More great music by Yoko Kano.......2007-02-12

More great music by Yoko Kano. I think this was even better that the 1st volume.

Most Beautiful and Amazing.......2007-02-08

Another soundtrack by yoko kanno and beautiful doesn't do it justice. I have several favorites from the score but to really know how amazing and joyous it is, it should be heard. I don't think words can describe it.

I Need Stand Alone Complex OST 3.......2006-11-12

Okay, I thought the first OST was amazing so I assumed OST 2 would let me down. Boy was I wrong! Not only do you get full versions of Rise and Get 9, but you are also gifted with two tracks sung by Ilaria Graziano (I Can't Be Cool and I Do).

But let me back up a bit. I knew I would love this OST more than the first one when I slipped it into the CD player in my car and Cyberbird almost ruptured my eardrums. Unbeknownst to me, the volume was up too high and I didn't turn it down until a cop looked at me funny. I think he liked what he heard but was afraid to admit it.

There are seventeen tracks. Each one is different. From techno to electronica to jazz to pop to funk to a lovely ballad titled I Do. There's a little bit of everything, which is just the way I like my music. If you own Vol. 1 you should add this one to your collection.

Amazon - Is there any chance you'll be selling Vol. 3? Pretty please?

Toccante.......2006-11-03

È assolutamente incredibile come l'autore di questa colonna sonora sia riuscito a dare vita a generi così diversi l'uno dall'altro, in grado di emettere, ad ogni brano, sensazioni forti e ogni volta nuove. Molto interessante, come per il primo CD, che si sia fatto uso di non solo inglese, ma anche altre lingue, ognuna in grado di dare un timbro del tutto particolare ad ogni pezzo. Degno di nota e del tutto inaspettato il risultato ottenuto con la miscela di italiano ed inglese di "I can't be cool".
Un solo giudizio: da comprare subito, sia per gli amanti delle colonne sonore che non.

Average customer rating: Japanese Taiko Interesting New Drum Sounds Amazing Japanese drumming...! One of the best Taiko collections I've heard

Japanese Taiko Manufacturer: Arc Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Drums of Tokyo Japanese Drums Big Bang Tataku: The Best of Kodo, Vol. 2 (1994-1999) Kodo - One Earth Tour Special (Bonus CD) ASIN: B0002IQCDO Release Date: 2004-06-29

Tracks:

1. Harvest
2. Pageant
3. Haru - Ichiban
4. Musashi Mai Uchi
5. Hokkai II
6. Chido-Setsu
7. Suisei - Hanabi (Comet - Fire Works - Shooting Star)
8. Heart Beat
9. Yuki Jizoh (An Old Tale)

Customer Reviews:

Japanese Taiko.......2007-01-11

I was first introduced to this throught a PBS program about taiko in America. Taiko is nothing but pure hardcore drumming. These aren't a bunch of guys sitting on their --- tapping out rhythms. They're beating the crap out of these drums. I'm sure there are youtube videos out there, it's a must if you've never seen how they play them.

This is my first taiko cd. As the other reviews said, the first song is the best, it is absolutly intense. The whole cd is great though. If you work out, this is a perfect cd to listen to while doing so. If you can sit still while listening to this, I'd be very surprised. Buy it, you won't regret it!

Interesting New Drum Sounds.......2006-05-15

I play an African Djembe, and am always looking to find new styles of drumming to incorporate into my playing. I'd been wanting to buy a Taiko CD, and picked this one at random. The first song is absolutely amazingly rockin'. I've listened to the CD twice, and while the first song leaps out and grabs you, I didn't find the rest of the CD to have that same crazy energy. Don't get me wrong - the rest of the CD is enjoyable, but the first song just blows the rest of the disc away.

Edited to add: So I've been listening to this CD for a while. I'm really not very crazy about it. The first time I heard the first song I really liked it, but it got old really fast. The selection of percussive instruments on this CD just bores me. There's just not enough variety for me - but then again, I'm used to listening to a lot of African music where you have djuns, sangbans, djembes, bells - all with a wide variety of different ways to play them. All in all, I suppose that this is still a good cd, but it's just not for me.

Amazing Japanese drumming...!.......2004-09-27

Another fine album by one of the major stars of the modern taiko drumming scene... Hirota's innovative compositions are audacious and ambitious; the skill and precision with which his ensemble perform them is nothing short of amazing. There are modernizations and meter shifts that may be questionable -- depending on your personal tastes or inclinations -- but for taiko fans, even those who prefer a more traditional style, this disc is a must. This is the music being played at its highest and most challenging level... Recommended!

One of the best Taiko collections I've heard.......2004-09-04

This is without a doubt one of the BEST taiko CD's ever. We put this on (to test a new subwoofer) and the sound of the drums was clear, the contrasting sticks and bells came through sharp and defined. The rhythms are surprisingly jazzy and modern.

There are nine cuts on this CD: the first seems VERY long but it's actually shy of 8 minutes--some are longer, 9:31 and 10:46 . The first cut Harvest is by far the best, though I like the almost 11 minute Heart Beat a lot as well.

The thundering big drums have traditional rhythms, but merge into melodic "songs" of a more modern nature. The drums are of varying sizes and tuned to different tones, and there is auxiliary percussion (sticks on the drum frame and some other percussion as well) but the Taiko dominate.


I find Taiko very energizing and I play this CD to lift my mood, especially if doing household tasks. If you like percussion, this is absolutely a must-have cd. We were VERY impressed.

Average customer rating: Good Traditional Japanese music Perfect background Super-relaxing One of the Best Japanese Music Album's I've found Softener for the ears...

Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | New Age General | New Age | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Japanese Melodies for Flute and Harp Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Koto Music of Japan Japanese Melodies The Very Best of Japanese Music ASIN: B0000026XT Release Date: 1990-05-17

Tracks:

1. Sakura, Sakura
2. Chin-Chin-Chidori
3. Yamanakabushi
4. Toryanse (Children's Song)
5. Chidori No Kyoku
6. Defune
7. Oharabushi
8. Shimabara No Komoriuta
9. Imayoh
10. Imayo
11. Chugoko-Chino-No-Komoriuta
12. Jogashima No Ame
13. Haru No Umi
14. Sakura, Sakura

Customer Reviews:

Good Traditional Japanese music.......2007-07-14

This is one of my favorite Japanese albums. If you're into traditional Japanese music this is a CD that you should have. I lost the one that I originally had and I finally bought another one. I couldn't beat the price and I think that this album is great.This is a must have CD if you're into this kind of music or just enjoy a broad spectrum of music.

Perfect background.......2007-04-02

Not only does the music appeal to dinner, but just sitting and reading or doing a crossword puzzle it allows your mind to relax, just enjoy! All the tracks are pleasant.

Super-relaxing.......2007-03-05

A very good introduction to koto music and a lot less cheesy than the concept would suggest. The first track is by far the best.

One of the Best Japanese Music Album's I've found.......2006-11-04

Beautiful selection of Japanese music. Very calming and soothing music. Mainly slow, but does include some quicker pieces of music. Great variety of instruments used such as flute, violin and harpsichord. CD also includes recipe for a Japanese dinner. Great background music for a dinner party. If you like the Soundtrack to Memoirs of a Geisha, you'll enjoy this.

Softener for the ears..........2006-08-26

I am not satisfied with this version of traditional Japanese music at all. In my opinion traditional Japanese music is much more impressive and intense when played on original Japanese instruments. The best example is "Sakura, sakura", one of the most famous Japanese songs. When it is played on Koto and Shakuhachi (Japanese flute) instead of transverse flute it has a different feel and much better quality of expression.

The whole CD is like a softener for an audience which might not be used to a non western sound. At the same time it will get a wrong idea about what Japanese music is and will miss its real quality.

Average customer rating: Gorgeous Rampal He must have been a Japanese person in his past life! Music To Soothe Your Soul! great french flutist and great oriental music This does not sound like Japanese flute playing

Japanese Melodies for Flute and Harp Jean-Pierre Rampal Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album Japanese Folk Melodies Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Koto Music of Japan The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto ASIN: B000002594 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: HARU NO UMI
2. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: CHUGOKU CHIHO NO KOMORI UTA
3. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: AKA TOMBO
4. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: CHIN-CHIN CHIDORI
5. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: NAMBU USHI OI UTA
6. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: DEFUNE
7. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: KONO MICHI
8. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: HANAYOME NINGYO
9. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: KOJO NO TSUKI
10. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: JOGASHIMA NO AME
11. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: HANA
12. Japanese Melodies For Flute And Harp: SAKURA

Customer Reviews:

Gorgeous Rampal.......2007-04-23

Jean-Pierre Rampal, besides being an incredible flute player, was obviously fond of Japanese folk music. He conveys this beauty in these incredible renditions of Japanese melodies that are both breathtaking and beautiful.

I won't deny the fact that it's clear that Rampal is playing on a European style flute. It's very obvious. However, does that stop these tunes from being amazing? Absolutely not. The Western harp doesn't change anything too. The mood is perfect, and Rampal's drastic differences from low notes to high notes (besides being very difficult and executed perfectly) give the music a Japanese feel. Yes, that's a harp, and yes, it's a Western flute, but the result is simply breathtaking. The mood is perfect, the music is beautiful, and the playing is flawless.

It's not played on a Japanese flute, but it's just as beautiful. It's different, lovely, and a wonderful disc to listen to at any time. At this price, it's a DEFINITE buy. Enjoy!

He must have been a Japanese person in his past life!.......2007-04-11

Jean-Pierre Rampal loves traditional Japanese music and it shows in his work.

In a couple of tracks I felt certain notes were not Japanese enough, and that's why I gave it 4. Maybe he meant to play it like that. I don't know.

I don't care what year it was produced in, this music is timeless and relaxing. I play it when I work on my digital art. It's not suitable for everyone, I have to admit, but for those who like world music and instrumental Japanese in particular, they'll appreciate it.

Music To Soothe Your Soul!.......2007-03-21

Having listened to Debussy, Vivaldi and Mozart's Piano Concertos over the last few weeks; I decided to seek out something different for the evening. With the gentle sound of rain against the window tonight, I began to go through my very large musical collection. Not seeking anything in particular, this CD "Japanese Melodies for Flute and Harp" by Rampal dropped into my lap while I was searching for something to play.

Almost as if some unseen hand had quided this CD into my possession. I am now in a state of bliss and relaxation. I decided to write a review of this CD so that others who may not have ever heard of these beautiful sounds may also partake in its enjoyment. I bought this CD several years ago, and have not heard it in a few years. Listening to the delightful music of Rampal's flute and Laskine's harp is sure to put anyone into a state of relaxation.

It is now raining a little harder outside, and these wonderful and delightful selections of Japanese folksongs seem to define the night. I am now listening to 'Sakura', as the CD is nearing its end. However, I will be sure to play it again tonight and hopefully fall asleep to these delightful sounds. There is a music sample here on the amazon site, which although is not as good as your home stereo, is recommended to those who would like to hear these sounds of Japanese folksongs magnificently performed by Rampal and Laskine: I must go now and replay this magnificent CD. Highly recommended. [Stars: 5+]

great french flutist and great oriental music.......2007-03-09

this is the third CD I have bought of Rampal playing japanese music, and I will never get tired of this mix of virtuoso interpretations and fascinating japanese melodies. A must for all those that enjoy the peaceful complexities of oriental music.

This does not sound like Japanese flute playing .......2007-01-20

I listened to the cd. My son played it in the cd player and it sounded like a European type of flute melody. As I viewd the CD I realized the flute palyer is not A Japanese, but a European. I sent it back to Amazon.

You too will hear the difference.

Average customer rating: One of the most underated bands ever! great Mandatory Metal Surprise, Surprise These guys can PLAY!

Thunder in the East Loudness Manufacturer: Wounded Bird Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Lightning Strikes Hurricane Eyes Rough Cutt/Rough Cutt Wants You! The Right to Rock Steeler ASIN: B0000CNY4N Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

1. Crazy Nights
2. Like Hell
3. Heavy Chains
4. Get Away
5. We Could Be Together
6. Run for Your Life
7. Clockwork Toy
8. No Way Out
9. Lines Are Down
10. Never Change Your Mind

Album Description

Loudness was a Japanese hard rock quartet that had numerous hit albums in the 80's and early 90's. Thunder In The East reached number 74 on the Billboard charts in 1985. Wounded Bird. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

One of the most underated bands ever!.......2007-07-15

Excellent Excellent CD!!!
One of the best sounding guitars that you'll ever hear.
you're a fool if you don't buy this CD. If you don't love it after you buy it, you're a moron and I don't feel a bit sorry for you.

great.......2007-07-04

its just as i remembered it outstanding cd. too bad after the 2nd cd they went pop this band had alot of potential.great cd

Mandatory Metal.......2007-05-23

*heavyyyyyyy chains*, this album rocks. Akira is a guitar god, this band is Japan's version of early Van Halen. If you are looking for all things 80's metal then this album is Mandatory Metal. Riffs, hooks, shred it's all there!!!

Surprise, Surprise.......2007-01-14

So, there I was, in Frankfurt, Germany, thumbing though some used cd's at the weekly Saturday flea market. I'd picked out some Satriani, Uli Jon Roth and an import Van Halen. The vendor pulled this album out and recommended I also buy it. I'd never heard of them and at first turned him down. Then he offered it to me for just one Euro. I figured that even if it sucked, then at least I had the other five disks that I knew would be worth the ten total Euro I'd spent. WOW!!! What a great album! I'd never even heard of these guys, but I'm going to look into getting more albums. Akira Takasaki can shred along with the likes of Eddie Van Halan and George Lynch. Stand out songs are Clockwork Toys and Never Change Your Mind. The production quality is a bit low. But this album is about 22 years old. A re-release would be cool, but this does just fine. If you like early Van Halen, Cinderella, Dokken, then you'll probably dig these guys, too.

These guys can PLAY!.......2006-09-28

Loudness was unfairly lumped in with all the '80s so-called "hair-metal" bands because of their look (probably due more to mis-management than actual personal styles), and unfortunately that label seemed to have stuck with them, despite the release of 4 brilliant CDs, this one being the first Major Label American release. Led by the "Oh yeah Yngwie? Check THIS out!" guitar work of Akira Takasaki, Loudness was a band of guys who could PLAY, not pose. Yes, the lyrics are fairly simple and sometimes juvenile, but I don't remember anyone else writing anything considered prose at the time either. Especially if you are a guitar player, this CD is a must have. Try to see whether or not you can match up with the straight picked solo in "Clockwork Toy" and then call this mediocre. I don't think so.

Average customer rating: Good introduction to Shakuhachi As it says on the package music for meditation, comtemplation and regeneration Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Wonderful--peaceful

Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Kohachiro Miyata Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Japan | Far East | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Shakuhachi Meditation Music Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Koto Music of Japan The Very Best of Japanese Music ASIN: B000005IWN Release Date: 1991-04-17

Tracks:

1. Honshirabe
2. Sanya
3. Tusuru No Sugomori
4. Shika No Tone
5. Akita Sugagaki

Customer Reviews:

Good introduction to Shakuhachi.......2007-05-17

I bought this CD to get a basic idea of the some of the classic sounds of Shakuhachi. I am a beginning player so this was essential to hearing a particular style and capabilities of a master artist.

I'd recommend this to anyone interested in Shakuhachi or if you just want some meditational style music.

As it says on the package.......2007-04-07

For anyone curious about Shakuhachi music, this is a great place to start. Traditionally this is a contemplative music, played alone or with a very small audience, hence it is devoid of crowd pleasing flourishes, allowing the listener to focus in on tiny subtleties. The first couple of tracks feature a longer and deeper sounding shakuhachi, rarely heard but possibly even more hauntingly beautiful than the standard sized instrument.
This was originally released on vinyl from a 1976 recording, so at 34 minutes it's rather a short CD, the recording is excellent, capturing every nuance.

music for meditation, comtemplation and regeneration.......2007-01-17

I first became interested in Japanese music through watching the films of Akira Kurosawa. His movies are as much an auditory as visual experience. He incorporates music from the traditional Japanese Noh theatre into his 'jidaigeki' (period drama) films. It is this music, perhaps more then the scenery which transports you to a different time and age. Noh music is very simple combing flutes and drums. Noh is a very minimalist form of theatre. only a bare minimum for the aesthetic stage and music allows the viewer to focus in on the performer and the drama upon them. By minimizing the art you see more. Shakuhachi takes this minimizing effect further by only presenting flute music and the outcome is inspirational. This music defies explanation, it is very simple yet concurrently extraordinarily complex for it can combine emotion of solitude and contemplation with joy and compassion. I cannot currently recommend any other music which allows one to look deep into oneself and at the same time feel joined with the greater world. Highly recommended for anyone looking for music to relax, meditate, think, and understand the larger world around them.

Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute.......2007-01-12

This was one of the first Japanese traditional music cds I wanted. If you watch a lot of kung foo movies, you will recognize this sound as it is usually played during a meditation or at the beginning of a fight scene.

This is a great cd if you wanting to relax or it would be great to play during dinner as a subtle background music.

If you are wanting something more upbeat, I highly suggest the "Japanese Taiko" with Joji Hirota.

Wonderful--peaceful.......2006-11-10

I'm no expert on the Japanese flute, but I do know that this is a wonderful CD.

Average customer rating: A Nice Introduction THIS IS "NEO-TRADITIONAL" JAPANESE AT ITS BEST Lullaby Review Great for relaxation and meditation Wonderful CD

Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Various Artists Manufacturer: Blue Note Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Japan | Far East | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Far East & Asia | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Koto Music of Japan The Very Best of Japanese Music Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album ASIN: B000005HA7 Release Date: 1998-02-10

Tracks:

1. Komoriuta: Lullaby (Variations)-Hazan Yamamoto, Utazumi Kunishige
2. Toge-Hachi-Ri: Eight Miles through a Mountain Pass-Tozan Tanno, Tozan Hara
3. Kuon No Hikari: Eternal Lights - Hozan Yamamoto, Utazumi Kunishige
4. Umi: Sea Fantasy - Tozan Hara, Soyo Nakamura, Reiko Nakamura, Miyoshi Hoshida
5. Muttsu: Six Fragments For Koto (Variations) - Osamu Shimizu, Keiko Matsuo
6. Sakura: Cherry Blossoms (Trio On A Theme By Sajura) - Kozan Kitahara, Shizuo Aoki
7. Kojo: Moonlight On A Ruined Castle (Variations On A Theme) - Kozan Kitahara, Shizuo
8. Chidori: The Ploughman's Song - Shinzo Miya

Customer Reviews:

A Nice Introduction.......2006-03-23

I purchased this CD in order to find music for a play production set in Japan, and this turned out to be a major source for us. Very pretty and, for a listener unused to Japanese music, perhaps a good entry level disc to purchase as an introduction.

THIS IS "NEO-TRADITIONAL" JAPANESE AT ITS BEST.......2004-04-12

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These songs are "neo-traditional" in that they make use of traditional Japanese instruments along with some that are modern. Occasional electronic sound effects and ones recorded from nature are also used. As has been mentioned in other reviews here, this CD is lacking in true Japanese "traditional" songs. But, there is nothing wrong with that. I don't see the reason for the confusion as nowhere does the album claim to be traditional Japanese. Many of the songs are recent compositions or, as in the case of the beautiful rendition of "Sakura: Cherry Blossoms (Trio on a theme by Sajura)," are modern variations on traditional Japanese themes.

I love traditional Japanese music and have been a listener for quite some time, but many people new to this music may initially like the neo-traditional better because it contains more western structure and complexity and therefore won't provide as stark a contrast to what they've been accustomed to hearing as with true traditional Japanese pieces. If you are looking for Japanese traditional "only" make sure you do some research into the album first. You're always welcome to visit my page by clicking the link on my name above - there you'll find several of my own recommendations for good "traditional only" and/or "neo-traditional" Japanese albums.

These points aside, I think this album is gorgeous. The artists perform spendidly and the music is beautifully meditative. I think the pieces carry on the tradition of the koto and shakuhachi in a noble, though modern, way.

Lullaby Review.......2003-07-13

I bought this CD. I was looking for the CD with Haru No Umi by Michio Miyagi, but this was all I found and picked it.
Frankly, I'm dissapointed at the lack of traditional japanese songs, such as 'Aka Tonbo' or the much beloved 'Haru No Umi', and even 'Kimigayo' and 'Kazoueta'.
I loved the way they did 'Kojou no Tsuki', it sounds haunting as it is supposed to be. I disliked how 'Sakura' was done, as we have sung a better version in my chorus class ;)
However, I thorougly enjoy 'Umi: Sea Fantasy'. It sounds like something that'd be played at a festival. ..and I love the spooky yet sereneness of the shakuhachi in this piece. Overall, the CD is okay, and if you are looking for calm and serene japanese music to listen to or help you fall asleep (i listened to it last night to help me fall asleep), I'd recommend it.

Great for relaxation and meditation.......2003-04-22

We play this CD in our spa. Its great for relaxation, but not rythmic enough for massage. It's great if you like the music in Japanese Restaurants. I personally think its boring, but serves the purpose of relaxation.

Wonderful CD.......2003-03-25

This music truly grows on you-the shakuhachi flute used on these recordings are beautiful- and the koto is pretty good as well. This music is very simple, but very soothing as another viewer put it. It is indeed very good meditation music-or just for listening to while cruising the web-whatever. I myself listen to it some days on my car rides to and from work-helps me unwind a bit if the day was particularly stressful! So if you are a fan of Japanese music-this CD is for you! If you are a fan of Brittany Spears-then this CD is REALLY for you-it will be good therapy. Just an attempt at a joke. Take care my friends

Average customer rating: It's just a matter of taste Surprised by all the high ratings Insert Remark Here Good English album, but hardly Hikki's full potential Melodies are good

Exodus Utada Hikaru Manufacturer: Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Single Collection, Vol. 1 Deep River Ultra Blue First Love Passion ASIN: B0002ZYE3M Release Date: 2004-10-05

Tracks:

1. Opening
2. Devil Inside
3. Exodus ' 04
4. The Workout
5. Easy Breezy
6. Tippy Toe
7. Hotel Lobby
8. Animato
9. Crossover Interlude
10. Kremlin Dusk
11. You Make Me Want To Be A Man
12. Wonder 'Bout
13. Let Me Give You My Love
14. About Me

Customer Reviews:

It's just a matter of taste.......2007-07-14

While many of her Japanese's works fans got seriously disappointed with this album, I must give Utada a credit for making this kind of album.

Having followed her career since her debut in 1999, I must say that Utada has never really lost her artistry craft both in her Japanese works and here, in Exodus.
I know what most people complain about the album is that its somewhat "cheesy and plain-simple lyrics" (which is a huge departure from her thoughtful, yet emotive Japanese lyrics), but I strangely enjoy these songs.

What I love about this album is its ethereal ambiance that really blows my mind. I don't know for other people, but I just love it! Most notably on "Devil Inside", which indeed is a club-banger, "Exodus '04", "Kremlin Dusk" and "Animato" with their ambient-inspired beats, "Tippy Toe", love the fast-paced vocal styling here, "Hotel Lobby", and "You Make me want to be a man". The unique lyrical themes on "Tippy Toe" (about an affair) and "Hotel Lobby" (about prostitution) become instantly overshadowed by the somewhat mindless lyrics on "Easy Breezy", "Let Me Give you My Love" and "The Workout".

All I can say is, this album is definitely NOT for those of you seeking lyrical depth. It's more about the music and the overall mind-pumping electronic feel to most of the album. Although this may have been viewed as a misstep by many of her fans, for me, Exodus is still a great work...another topnotch album since "Deep River" and most recently "Ultra Blue".

Surprised by all the high ratings.......2007-07-12

I've been in Japan for 7 years now, and fell in love with Utada Hikaru after seeing her video for Traveling (now on the album Deep River) and was just totally mesmerized by her. But, liking Utada Hikaru was a surprise for me at first, since I'd heard her earlier (best-selling) stuff before and had written her off as over-rated, with a weak voice that would never have made it in the U.S. It was no surprise to me to find out that before she became the queen of Japanese popular music she had in fact tried to make it in the U.S. first and failed. She just didn't strike me as having the solid star-quality voice needed for huge success outside of Japan.

What amazed me by Traveling, and Hikari, and Sakura Drops, and Letters and pretty much every song on the album Deep River, was that she had totally found the perfect music for her voice. It wasn't that her voice was suddenly awesome, it was just that her voice fit the music which fit her charming character perfectly-- it was a golden package. Just awesome.

So, I bought Exodus when it first came out here without hearing a single song on it. Listened to it once, was shocked and dismayed, and put it away for more than 2 years. Not only was it nothing like her newer Japanese songs that I totally loved, it struck me as a bold essay into new territory that just didn't fit her at all. Now, I respect artists who don't want to be pigeon-holed into a single sound. But a lot of artists simply don't sound as good in every situation, and Utada Hikaru is one of them. Not only do her English lyrics lack the charm and poignancy of her Japanese lyrics (which I do understand), some of the lyrics on Exodus are downright embarrassing. Which surprises me given that she was raised in America and is fluent in English. And then there's the raw fact that when she pushes her voice too far in the wrong direction, it just doesn't fly. And she does that a fair amount on Exodus, too. Well, last month, I dusted Exodus off and have listened to it a number of times since then. And I have to admit some of the songs are pretty good/catchy, they're just not the quality (in every sense) of her newer Japanese songs.

And you know what? I just bought her newest Japanese album Ultra Blue... and remember that perfect style of hers on Deep River? It's back, and she sounds great! So, if you want to hear her best stuff, skip this album and get Deep River and Ultra Blue. Better yet, get a collection of her music videos from those two albums and be prepared to be truly enchanted.

The moral of the story is, there's too much genuinely good music in the world to give mediocre albums high ratings just because you don't want to be mean.

Insert Remark Here.......2007-06-14

I have to be honest that the first time I heard this album all the way through it through me off without Japanese vocals. I'm very attached to J-Pop and to hear it without the proper lingo was most disconcerting. Yet on my first visit to the album I fell in love with song 5 "Easy Breezy", and after a fashion I listened to the rest of the album again and began to fall in love with it. Granted some of the songs are better than others, but as a whole Hikaru Utada delivers above and beyond what we could expect of her. The only negative thing I can say about it is; too bad she's married. Oye!

Good English album, but hardly Hikki's full potential.......2007-06-08

Even though Utada Hikaru has been one of the major artists of J-pop, I didn't really know much about her. Then, I listened to her single "Flavor of Life" and I was instantly impressed.

Deciding to seek out more of her work, I came by this album "Exodus".

In terms of general American pop, this is a very good album, but it hardly sounded like it was by the same person who did "Flavor of Life".

To begin with, the general musical quality on here is different. The techno music doesn't complement her vocals very well, which here, sound very weak in comparison to "Flavor of Life". Instead of the rich voice I remembered, you get the standard American pop artist voice.

Then, most of the lyrics here are awful. They are either quite meaningless (The Workout, Easy Breezy) or lackluster and over-sexualized (Tippy Toe, Let Me Give You My Love, You Make Me Want To Be A Man), rather like mainstream American pop today. I'm surprised that would happen for someone who grew up in America and had been writing great lyrics in Japanese.

However, this album does have it's nice parts. Devil Inside is a nice dance track and Exodus '04 is quite nice too.

Overall, I think this is a great album for American pop, but it's hardly the best that Hikki can do.

(P.S. No, this album is /NOT/ J-pop, so stop labeling it as such)

Melodies are good.......2007-06-05

The melodies are really good of all the songs, but the rest...
The lyrics are for the most either embarrasing or plain stupid, dosen't make any sense at all.
The music is awful.
And Utada has such a wobbly voice, she barely hits the high notes on "Kremlin Dusk."

A shame really, this could have been a much better album...

Average customer rating: So Good You Could Drink It Journey Across the Asian Continent Putumayo's First Asian adventure charming and calming Meditative

Music From the Tea Lands Various Artists Manufacturer: Putumayo World Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Indonesia | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Far East | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Far East & Asia | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Putumayo World Music Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Music from the Coffee Lands Putumayo Presents: Music from the Chocolate Lands Arabic Groove Putumayo Presents: Asian Lounge Putumayo Presents: Sahara Lounge ASIN: B00004W5LV Release Date: 2000-08-22

Tracks:

1. Saginou - Zulya
2. Picking Flowers - Lei Qiang
3. Hangama Hai Kyon Barpa - Ghulam Ali
4. For Julia - Sanjay Mishra
5. Utuwaskarap - Oki
6. Gerizler Basi - Okan Murat Ozturk
7. Afshari - Kamil Alipour
8. Anggopanku - Hila Hambala
9. The Empress - Ancient Future
10. Kang Mandor - Ujang Suryana

Product Description

A soothing, inspirational brew of exotic music steeped in the traditions of Asia's tea lands. Zulya Saginou Lei Qiang Picking Flowers Ghulam Ali Hangama Hai Kyon Barpa Sanjay Mishra For Julia Oki Utuwaskarap Okan Murat Öztürk Ger

Amazon.com

This pan-Asian travelogue features musicians from China, India, Tatarstan, Indonesia, Japan, Turkey, and Iran. Aside from the unifying theme of the 400-hundred-year-old tea trade, the tunes have little in common and range from modern fusions to intriguing glimpses of rarely heard traditions. Assorted strings dominate the instrumental forces, especially harplike sounds, but the vocals are equally strong. Among the most fascinating tracks are Zulya's beguiling recollections of her Tatar childhood, Oki's tribute to his endangered Ainu (Japanese aboriginal) heritage, the Anatolian Turkish saz (lute) stylings of Okan Murat Ozturk, and an arrestingly percussive example of Iran's classical Persian disciplines as performed by Kamil Alipour. The set offers an array of unexpected pleasures from cultures that deserve to be better documented in the West. It is as mellow yet invigorating as the perfect tea break. A recipe for chai, a spicy Indian milk tea, is included. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

So Good You Could Drink It.......2006-09-21

At first i had doubts when i bought this cd, thinking it was going to be a little over the top. I was suprised to find out that I was wrong. All the songs are so light and dainty and beautifully composed. I especially liked Sanjay Mishra's "For Julia" and Ancient Future's "The Empress", but I absolutely loved Lei Quang's "Picking Flowers". This is by far one of my favorite Putumayo albums. I even like it better than Music From The Coffee Lands!

Journey Across the Asian Continent.......2006-09-03

Billed as a journey across the "Tea Lands", this CD gives an incredible survey of the musical styles of Asia. Asia is a vast and diverse continent, from the frozen steppes of the north to the tropical jungles of India and SE Asia. Some of the oldest civilizations arose there, along the Indus River (in Paksitan) and the Yellow River valley (in China). The religions of Hinudism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto arose in Asia, and Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim countrie. The world's two largest countries, India and China, are both in Asia. The result? You have an incredible variety of languages, cultures and people, all with their own styles of music. Any CD managing to cover even a little of that diversity is amazing, but this CD manages to do just that.

So just whats on this CD, you might ask. Well, alot of good stuff, actually. From the tiny semi-autonomous republic of Tatarstan, Zulya performs a haunting, melodic song. Pakistani singer Ghulam Ali sings a ghazal of love and devotion, while Iranian setar and tar player Kamil Alipour shows the wonder of classical Persian music in the mode Dastgah Afshari. Indonesian composer Ujang Suryana leads a Gamelan ensemble, Turkey's Okan Murat Ozturk demonstrates Anatolian folk music, and Oki revives the traditions of Japan's indigenous culture with Ainu pop, complete with the hankori, a native Ainu instrument. Yes, thats right, Ainu pop! Chinese erhu-player Lei Qiang does a traditional song from Sichuan, while the group Ancient Future does a mellow techno number drawing upon Chinese, Japanese and Indian instrumentation.

This is good music, quite appropriate for listening to while drinking tea if your so inclined. In fact, the booklet includes a history of tea and it's cultural role, as well as a recipe for Indian chaai. The Putumayo label has put out a number of great world music CDs, and this should definately be included amongst them. Listening to this CD will shatter any stereotypes you may have about Asian music. It is certainly worth adding to your collection, and good music to listen to while drinking tea, meditating or just chilling out. Several of my friends have commented that they liked this CD as well, and were amazed at how diverse Asian music is. So do yourself a favor and check out this CD, along with some of the other compilations from Putumayo.

Putumayo's First Asian adventure.......2006-06-12

Putumayo's first venture into Asia with this CD is wonderful--a breathtaking exploration of Asian countries through music.While tea is the unifying theme,the music is as calm as a hot cup.

This is centered on instrumentals&they are musical nirvana.

Ancient Future has a great track fusing different styles of Asian music,as does Oki,who shows the ancient roots of Japan in the Ainu people.Oki Kano also collaborated with Carlos Nakai on "Island of Bows." Sanjay Mishra's "For Julia" is acoustic guitar meets India.Lei Qiang contributes a traditional Chinese instrumental,making one think of the Forbidden City,or the ancient temples.Okan Murat Ozturk from Turkey&Kamil Alipour from Iran evoke the serenity through their instrumental music.They show that lyrics aren't always necessary for powerfully soothing music.Zulya is an Enya from Tatarstan,at once New Agey&earthy.She collaborates with an African musician,uniting different musical traditions harmoniously.

This CD is ideal for meditative settings.

charming and calming.......2006-02-24

Very good belend of relaxing and fused music with traditional and some western sound intwined.

Meditative.......2006-01-31

My other CDs by Putumayo have been music that you put on while driving down the open road on a sunny day- upbeat, fun, fresh. The music on this CD requires a meditative mood. You wouldn't want to listen to it in the car because all the intricacies would be drowned out by the engine. There is much delicate music on this CD, gorgeous lutes and harps, spine-tingling sundanese metallophones and soft gongs. This CD makes you feel so incredibly good and relaxed if you listen to it quietly in your room. I love it!

Average customer rating: Great Music "Your words are like knives.....they peel my skin and pierce my soul...." City and Colour, excellent album My boyfriend hates it. I love it. Great stuff from Dallas Green singer from Alexisonfire

Sometimes City and Colour Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Act:1: Goodbye Friends of the Heavenly Bodies Crisis Live Tomorrow Starts Today Happiness & Disaster ASIN: B000BPO6WW Release Date: 2005-11-14

Tracks:

1. ...off by Heart
2. Like Knives
3. Hello, I'm in Delaware
4. Save Your Scissors
5. In the Water I Am Beautiful
6. Day Old Hate
7. Sam Malone
8. Comin' Home
9. Casey's Song
10. Sometimes (I Wish)

Album Details

Main Songwriter in Alexisonfire, Dallas Green, Demonstrates his Wide Talent by Producing an Ear Catching Debut Solo Album.

Customer Reviews:

Great Music.......2007-05-11

I really love this CD. I even bought another copy for a friend.

"Your words are like knives.....they peel my skin and pierce my soul....".......2006-10-26

Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Dallas Green recently made the wise decision to, on a bit of downtime from his musical priority Alexisonfire, release a solo album. None of this is new material, however. Dallas, being a gifted songwriter, simply picked his 10 favorite previously unreleased songs straight out of his closet. And the results are superb. The name of the artist is Dallas Green but he calls himself "City and Colour", supposedly not intentionally after his name(City/Dallas, Colour/Green). City and Colour is definitely oriented towards the female crowd, with it's emotionally sentimental acoustic sound and Green's pretty vocal stylings. However, if you're anything like me, you'll be right at home with Sometimes.

The majority of Sometimes is driven by Dallas's singing and acoustic guitar, although once in a while you'll hear a piano or violin. This is such a contrast to Alexisonfire(Green's main project), which is a heavy darker sounding screamer/metal hybrid. But it's for the better, because here we see what Green is capable of once left on his own.

The first track off of Sometimes is a short, albeit obscure song called "Off By Heart". Running at just under 2 minutes, I imagine it was just thrown on to create heft. Although it ended up being one of the better songs on the record, and also a good showcase of Dallas's singing abilities. Following immediately after is "Like Knives", arguably the best track on the disc. It has a beautiful soul to it, with an emotional yet at times reserved vocal, ultimately ending in an emotionally charged cry for a lost love.

"Hello, I'm in Deleware" is the third track on Sometimes, opening with an infectious "can't-get-it-out-of-your-head" acoustic melody that really shows off Green's prowess. Again this is more of the emotionally driven lyricism that dominates City and Colour's debut. The next song, "Save Your Scissors" was actually the first single off of the album(combined there are now two), a number one hit on MuchMusic here in Canada, it has an insanely catchy chorus and once again displays Dallas Green's vocals.

There is one song I could have done without, "In the Water, I am Beautiful", which I find sort of annoying and lyrically cheesy. Probably his weakest lyrics on Sometimes. Other than that the rest of the songs range from good to fantastic. "Day Old Hate" is definitely a contendor for best song off the album. Again another amazing lyrical outpouring of emotion and melody. It's a slow burn, at about 6:44, but it's definitely one of my favorite songs, about as good as "Like Knives", another beautifully written/arranged song.

I debated with myself over whether Sometimes was worthy of 5 stars or not, but after having listened to Sometimes at least 30 or so times, I can safely say that I think it's worth 5 stars. Even if a few of the tracks aren't as inspired as the rest of the album.

City and Colour's future is unknown at this point, but going based off of what Dallas Green has said concerning his music career, it sounds like this was just a product resulting from a back catalogue of previously written material and some downtime from what he holds most important right now, Alexisonfire. I can only hope that he will write some more songs and maybe throw in a few more from his back catalogue, because this album is touching, and I will forever consider it a sentimental treasure.

City and Colour, excellent album.......2006-10-09

Dallas Greens work in Alexisonfire has always been their saving grace. The guy can write a guitar riff and vocal hook like it's nobody's buisness and his clean, crystalline voice is not all too dissimilar from Thom Yorke on this album, but with much more power and less of the despair Thom litters about, almost too much these days.

Sometimes is a personal, acoustic foray that is just a well-written, well-played 46 minutes. Highly remniscent of singer-songwriters from the 70's, Sometimes has a largely classic and timeless feel while still incorporating some modern emo elements.

While most band members solo projects end up being a mess, drastically different than their bands material to the point it feels forced, and overall just not very good, City and Colour succeeds heads and shoulders above the rest.

If you're a fan of Alexisonfire, or a fan of acoustic outings, or hell just a fan of a well-written album, be sure to check this out.

My boyfriend hates it. I love it........2006-10-09

I've always been a vague fan of Alexisonfire, and my favourite thing about the band is Dallas Green's voice. There's an interesting kind of clarity to his timbre, and a kind of barely-repressed emotional bite. It was a cool combination for the frontman of a band like Alexisonfire, but in this moody, guy-with-guitar setting it's displayed perfectly.

The album plays like a love letter to a single person, with references to time and distance throughout. It sounds heartbreakingly sincere, painful and comforting all at once. It's got a wonderful, moody atmosphere and a lyrical feeling that sounds unforced and natural. I'm officially addicted.

Great stuff from Dallas Green singer from Alexisonfire.......2006-07-31

Again Great stuff from Dallas Green singer from Alexisonfire. Which contrary to the last post Alexisonfire has not disbanded but low and behold will be releasing a new album next month called crisis. I have heard it and it is the best album yet. Check it out people if you like Dallas Green you cannot help but like Alexisonfire.

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6. Mata Koi Shiyou [CD-single] [Import]
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