Customer Reviews

Hiroshima

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
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I discovered Hiroshima with the purchase of this debut album when it was first released. Of all Hiroshima's albums/cds (and I have them all), this still stands as their best work, due to the absolutely phenomenal "Da-Da." It is the finest meld of eastern instrumentation, jazz and electric rock ever achieved, with simple, but very moving lyrics. That cut alone is worth the purchase of the cd. Add this to your collection - you will not be disappointed.

i first heard hiroshima a couple of years ago and not knowing what they actually sounded like partly because the guitarist or the singers weren't with the band at the time, i decided to buy one of their cds for the peaceful japanese music they played on the show. i finally listened to the cd tonight and was pleasantly surprised by the jazz fusion sound and the quality of the music. i don't think very many people know the band as well as they should maybe because of their name not really recognized as the name of a band that would play good jazz fusion. also, i've yet to hear them played on any radio station. if you like jazz then this cd tinged with a japanese music edge is a good way to start listening to this particular band. the singers are very good and you'll get some singing and some music without the singers. hiroshima deserves critical as well as american recognition.

Since listening to Hiroshima in concert 17 years ago in Orlando,Florida, I have very much enjoyed their fusion of jazz sounds and japanese instruments. One of their first albums, (Odori) really got my attention because of its sweet sounds and female vocalists that made it unique from other jazz fusion sounds. Their later recordings in the mid 1990's to current with the exception of "Black and White" have strayed too much with the mainstream and with male vocalists on track have changed the sound of Hiroshima. However, with the recent title, I'm beginning to return to Hiroshima's smooth jazz sounds. Bring back Hiroshima's female vocalists!!

I am a bit biased regarding Hiroshima, since their leader, Dan Kuramoto, is my cousin. Relationships aside, Hiroshima's music, both old and new, is refreshing to listen to, but their concerts are much better. Their recent performance @ the opening of the L.A. Japanese-American Museum has resulted in new fans, according to the attendees that I spoke with. "East" CD is a better CD.

From the opening infectious R&B groove(with a slight Santana feel) of the instrumental Lion Dance to June Kuramoto's gifted and talented playing of the Japanese koto instrument on the track Kokoro it is quite obvious this group was serious then as it is now. Hiroshima has never been a novelty act.Their command of being able to blend so many beautiful styles of music together for something that is truly peaceful,positive, and ethereal is just incredible ! On this debut (I think it's their debut)demonstrates just how ahead of the times they were.Very different yet very familiar for 1979 late disco era.However, make no mistake, there is no disco here. Female and male vocals are of a soothing nature...This is a highly recommended listen. The material may a sound a bit dated. Yet, there are so many new age ambient nuances and pop/jazz/r&b elements that make this a timeless project !

I first heard this on my Sirius radio, I had to buy.!!
What a strong band, very tasteful music.

Some descriptive words for this group are, Easy, relaxing, new, and mysterious.Their "Orient" sound combined with traditional Jazz make their sound different from other artist today.Music without words has always led me to Jazz. My memory is stirred when hearing a piece of music, many times with a smile, but we've all had those other moments.Hiroshima offers a different path to Jazz appreciation because of their unique sound,memories rarely interfer so I am always at ease, and with a smile.

Earlier Hiroshima, but reveals the strength and tenderness the group is capable of. The bass and then the delicate, brilliant, building koto of Ms. Kuromoto on "Kokoro" alone makes this album a must, and not just for Hiroshima fans.