From the album's name to the group's moniker, Rock of Asia's Asian Anthology is an example of undeniable truth in advertising. This five-piece act is led by Nikki Matsumoto (vocals, biwa, guitar) who, although he was born in Tokyo, Japan, moved to California at 18 where he played with American players on the L.A. scene. Asian Anthology, however, features as much traditional Japanese music, as it does rock and roll.
Some of the more ethnic instrumentation included on these tracks include the shakuhachi, a bamboo end-blown flute and a shamisen, a three-stringed instrument. These authentic implements are combined with guitars, bass, drums, and plenty of violin. While some of these 14 tracks are quite exotic, by American-ear-standards, others, like "Solitary Friend," feature fairly straight forward rock vocals. Then some of these are simply beautiful, exemplified by the gentle "Kojo No Tsuku."
It is heartening to hear this album's smart mixture of national and international sounds. Matsumoto has done a wonderful job of bringing it all together, which makes Asian Anthology a truly enjoyable listening experience.
Rating:
Share this article
Live: Heart and Cheap Trick Rock Tampa
On the Blue: New Horizons Cruise Days 4 & 5: Starship Lands on the Pearl, Alan Parsons Takes It Home
Kandace Springs - Run Your Race
On the Blue: New Horizons Cruise Day 1: Marbin Gets the Fun Started
Slipknot Announce Knotfest Iowa Lineup
Serj Tankian Shares Teaser For New Single 'A.F. Day'
Kaleo Announce North American Payback Tour
Shallow Side Recruit Elias Soriano For 'Filters'
Kings Of Thrash Announce Anarchy in the UK Tour
William Shatner Announces New Project With Animated 'Elephants And Termites' Lyric Video
Rush In The Studio For 'Grace Under Pressure' 40th Anniversary
Singled Out: Holly Lerski's Nepenthe