Spirit Of The Islands

Spirit of the Islands – MAKOTO

Reviewed by: Jonathan "JNDrama" Nguyen

At first glance it would seem like this album contains typical Hawaiian style island music, but that is not the case at all. Overall, it goes for more jazz with some funk thrown in it. The island theme comes mainly from the use of Asian Pacific instruments such as the fue, shakuflute, and piri. Most of the tracks are relaxing with positive vibes. Contemporary jazz with an exotic flair.
No FCC's.
Recommended tracks: 2, 8, 9, 10, 12.

1. Spirit of the Island (6:42) - Very laid back sound. Polynesian style flutes used throughout.
2. Ancient Eyes (9:26) - Starts off ominously. Picks up with strong flute sounds and a memorable motif.
3. Dreamin' (4:54) - Guitar track with a relaxed theme.
4. Dawn (6:10) - Another guitar track with classic rock vibes.
5. Funky Mr T (3:46) - The name says it all. Pure funk track with heavy sax usage.
6. Neoswing (4:20) - Lounge music. Jazz track to set the mood.
7. Ambrosia (7:26) - Another jazz track but with more melancholy undertones.
8. Dreams (5:03) - Very chill, dreamy sound as the name suggests.
9. Dusk (7:36) - Easygoing world music track with indigenous instruments and vocals.
10. Spirit Risin' (8:07) - Relaxing jazz track accompanied by a piano number that starts mid-track.
11. Talk to Me (6:41) - The memorable motif from track 2 returns with an uptempo contemporary jazz sound.
12. Waltz 4 Chayez (5:19) - Jazz track with a moody sound created by Asian wood instruments.