Customer Reviews

Orchid 2

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I first heard the song, "A Song of Lilies" on the DirecTV "Soundscapes" channel. Each time I heard it, I found myself wanting to hear it more and more. As most people, I thought the special music was provided by a mandolin...when it was, in fact, a Chinese Lute. Shao Rong is a master with this instrument. This entire CD - which includes 2 incense sticks that give it a heavenly smell when opened - is a pleasure to listen to. Each night before turning in, I listen to "A Song of Lilies." It has become the perfect way to end a hectic day. If you like unique and intriguing new age music, this is a "must buy."

This is a second album of the Chinese pipa virtuoso Shao Rong. If the music in the first album was fully composed and arranged by Seiichi Kyoda, then this album is a collaboration of several Japanese composers, including famous Missa Johnouchi (Road to Oasis, Asian Blossoms, Kurenai).

During many years Missa has been promoting Asian instrumental music in the West. That's why many of her compositions feature both traditional Asian instruments and Western type instruments such as guitar, piano, violin. On this CD she did it again! The track no. 7 "Orchid" is a beautiful theme for pipa and string quartet.

Also, on a couple of tracks you will hear vocal of Shao Rong. I must say she doesn't have a powerful voice of an opera singer, but her gentle almost whispering singing just perfectly goes along with her pipa play. Enjoy!

I ordered this c.d. as well as orchid from Amazon after going to the special Chinese exhibit at Chicago's Field Museum, they were playing this in the gift shop, but were sold out. I'm not surprised! The sound quality and music itself is just beautiful. Put this on shuffle play while you're working and it will calm even the most stressful workday. I'm not crazy about the sometimes shrillness or (seeming)redundancy of Asian music which I'm sure is my own shortfall in music appreciation; but I am trying to expand my musical horizons and appreciate this on its merits and own intrinsic beauty. For something not too "over the top" I highly recommend either/both of these c.d.'s wholeheartedly. The incense included in the spines of the c.d.'s was also a nice touch

In case you're wondering if "Orchid II" is as good as Shao Rong's first "Orchid" CD, the answer is - YES! Listening to this CD is like taking a drink of a cool drink of water on a hot summer day. So refreshing and relaxing - Orchids are my new favorite flower... I highly recommend both of Shao Rong's albums, and look forward to her third!

i find this absolutely beautiful,i love the songs "Orchid" & "Song of lillies" is my favorite.such a display of talent.there really is no words to express the love of her music.i was just introduced to this..have orchid 1 in shipment now and cant wait to hear it........don

As said over and over in these reviews these are both wonderful, nothing more for me to add, only to say get both, 1 and 2, you will save on shipping, and you will only end up buying them both anyway - trust me they are that good!

Jim

Shao Rong returns with her wonderful pipa (Chinese Lute) and this time showing off her vocal talents as well.

Shao Rong is a multi talented and exceptional artist, long praised by her homeland as a child prodigy and an award winning artist.

This CD is more of a blend of Chinese elements with a distinct western feel to many of the compositions. The pipa sets the mood, but the music is sometimes `tropical' in feel, other times it has a jazz elements. The CD however, does not feel jumpy as it flows gracefully from style to style, and gives us an overall feel for the talents of this young lady.

Many of the songs are light and upbeat with a few cuts that can only be described as `romance with an Oriental touch'.

Ms. Rong also graces us with her vocal abilities on two tracks. `Milky Way' gives us a much stronger Chinese connection with her soft, light traditional vocals. While the words are Chinese, the booklet included in my CD does give the translation. `Dreaming', also highlights Ms. Rong's pleasant and subtle vocal ability. The music is performed well, accenting Ms. Rong's voice and never overpowering it.

Outstanding tracks on this CD are: `Tropical Island'; a bright tune reminiscent of tropical Pacific Islands with its swaying rhythm and its light, breezy feel.

`Orchid' combines the pipa with classical violins, having an almost chamber music quality with an oriental flavor that is most delightful and brightens up the somberness of the violins.

`Early Spring' is pipa accompanied by piano, a delightful combination we heard in her first CD and is offered again for our enjoyment. This composition is soft, pleasant and inviting for contemplation.

If you enjoyed Ms. Rong's first CD `Orchid' this offering will not disappoint you. This is a very wonderful reprise to her first CD. maf