Step Forward

Hikage, Shoko & Noriko Tsuboi
World | Nov 2002

Reviews

Jacki-O
Reviewed 2002-12-15
Hikage, Shoko & Noriko Tsuboi - Koto Duo: Step Forward
Label: self-released

As you can tell from the picture on the CD, the koto is a huge stringed instrument that is identical to a Chinese zither. Some works on this CD are far-out improvisational pieces (3,4,9) and other pieces are more traditional Asian-sounding works (2,6,7,8). This CD can be played on experimental/improv programs as a result. There are quite a few interesting pieces. I especially liked 6-8, which is three-part work that is quite nice, and #5 is very interesting.
1. Sparse notes played quietly
2. A light & sunny feel to the melodies
3. Improvisation – w/ some insistent moments
4. Low bassy notes, some tense high-pitched squeaky-string moments, alternating with quiet meditative moments
5. A four-part work that incorporates ideas of the four seasons, a re-creation of nature sounds through the use of the two koto instruments - impressive
6. Slow and peaceful
7. Melodic and flowing – lovely tones
8. Lively – beautifully dancing tones & melodies
9. Improv piece that brings out some really far-out sounds from the manipulation of the two koto instruments

Recent airplay

Kobu 3
Oh Messy LifeJan 19, 2003
Koto Futae 3
No Cover, No MinimumJan 14, 2003
Kobu 5
Oh Messy LifeJan 12, 2003
Kobu 2
Oh Messy LifeJan 05, 2003
Laguna
press and releaseJan 01, 2003

Charting

2002-11-25 — 2003-01-27 Reggae/World
Week EndingAirplays
Jan 26 1
Jan 19 2
Jan 12 1
Jan 5 1
Dec 29 1
Dec 8 1
Dec 1 1

Track listing

1. Kobu 2
2. Kobu 3
3. Kobu 5
4. Laguna
5. Hyakkafu
6. Koto Futae 1
7. Koto Futae 2
8. Koto Futae 3
9. Luggage