Kuge - original music by Missa Johnouchi
amazonka | 09/29/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Missa Johnouchi is one of the most talented contemporary composers. She creates pure masterpieces be it for symphonic orchestra or an ensemble featuring traditional instruments. She is also an eminent piano player (check her 'Kataribe' CD).
Her new CD Kuge encompasses all her talents of a musician, a composer and an orchestra conductor. There are two CDs. The first features her compositions performed on traditional instruments of Asia. They are gently plaited into original compositions together with Western type instruments such as piano and strings. You will be amazed at the way these compositions sound because Missa removed borders between Eastern and Western music, creating something completely new and wonderful! If you like her previous albums such as 'Kurenai', 'Asian Blossoms' and 'Road to Oasis' then you would definitely enjoy 'Kuge'.
The second CD in the Kuge album is Missa's speciality. The music here is performed by the Paris National Opera Theater Orchestra. These compositions are impressive! Especially I was touched hearing solo Erhu. Can you imagine a tender sound of Erhu powered by full orchestra?! Fantastic!
Kuge - is beautiful. I recommend it."