This came out in 2004 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
WHERE YOU’LL FIND THEM: The rhythm nation.
FILE UNDER: Drums, drums, drums.
LOWDOWN: They got the beat, all right. But on their debut CD, long-running Japanese drum troupe Hinode Taiko may surprise you with what else they possess — more musicality than you’d expect from a pack of stickhandlers. Some of that comes from their superior technique, which allows them to manipulate tempo and dynamics to dramatic effect. Some more comes from smart arrangements that wisely combine bold, primal rhythms with complex, interwoven patterns to create a variety of textures and moods. Put the rest down to sheer creativity and the obvious enthusiasm they retain after 22 years together. Here’s hoping we don’t have to stick around 22 more years for a followup.
