Customer Reviews

Taiko

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

 

 

I fully realize that it is impossible to reproduce the Taiko experience on an audio recording, but this fell so far short of its billing that I was quite disappointed. After experiencing Taiko live (a local amateur group) for several years, I finally decided to buy some recordings. After looking over the paltry few available, I selected this one, since it was billed as featuring master drummers, and some shakuhachi music as well, which I also love.

First of all, the recording itself seems to be of a very low audio level so you have to turn the volume way up even to hear it. Since Taiko usually shakes the stage, this is very surprising.

The pieces themselves feature a few interesting passages, but none of the energy of a live Taiko performance. I did not get the impression the musicians were enjoying themselves or their music.

The dynamics of the arrangements were quite limited. Taiko features mostly large drums with participants interacting with each other in intricate rhythmical patterns. I got the impression most of these pieces could have been played just as well by one person on a standard American trap set.

I wanted to lend this to a friend because I find it so difficult to explain in words what Taiko is all about, but I don't think this particular CD would be any more illuminating. Guess I'll keep looking.

I am listening to Michael Askill's Taiko now. I purchased it on a whim because I am a taiko drummer and like Mr. Askill's other CD's. I read the colorado review after my purchase and figured I had probably wasted my money. On listening to the CD I could not disagree with the colorado review more. This is an excellent CD and a good example of taiko. It is not a quiet CD but is shaking the walls of the house. I recommend this CD for anyone interested in Taiko or in a good percussive CD.