Customer Reviews

Island

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Island is a work by Hae where we are introduced to the island Okinawa as heard though the sounds of the artist. Hae offers a different flavor of Japan as this island, while part of the Japanese group, has a different culture and variations in language from the mainland.

The music incorporates various elements, such as Bali bells on Gentle Wind, a dancing beat on Sunset Island, and tradition arrangements and vocals on Chikinu Kaishiya.

There are English vocals included in two of the songs. Teinsagu nu Hana has English as well as Japanese/Okinawa lyrics and is a contemplation of a beach in moonlight. Heavenly Home presents us with the warm summer's night sky over the ocean.

Each track invokes the artists' memory of his home, with traditional pieces and instruments painting the picture. The flavor is definitely Japanese and the mood is soft, invoking and as beautiful as the sent of a breeze from the ocean.

There are elements that suggest the influence of Western music in the artists' compositions, such as in `Heavenly
Home', `Lazy Afternoon' or `By the Sea'. But the influences only make the compositions more inviting to the Western ear, and we can enjoy the combination without losing the Japanese flavor.

`By the Sea' has an almost soft Jazz feel to it, but retains its Japanese flavor with instruments that invoke the Island culture.

This CD offers a look at the traditional roots of Japanese music while also examining Western influences. It is a most pleasing offering from Hae and Pacific Moon and one I am sure you will enjoy. maf

As a fan of Pacific Moon recordings, I knew I would like this CD. But I wasn't prepared to be swept up and away and planted on the shores of this luscious island! The music is almost...intoxicating. It massaged my mind, spirit and body as I totally relaxed into it. I didn't want to come back to reality, so lovely is the escape this CD offers. If you can't go to an island, you can at least let ISLAND come to you! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

"Sunset Island", "Teinsagu Nu Hana", "Heavenly Home" are absolutely good pieces!
I recommend this CD.

I purchased this CD at the Japan pavillion in Epcot in Disney World. I was looking for traditional Japanese music but was thoroughly surprised by this CD's calming affect. I'm from the Florida Keys and this CD reminds me of being by the ocean every time. I use it at work especially to disperse stress.