Ogurusu Norihide - Modern

Musicians like Ogurusu Norihide tend to be categorised upon the use of their instrument(s) rather than upon a style they practice. The description in the press kit that accompanies 'Modern', however, of "hybrid folk" is apt. It should also, however, be filed, under modern composition. Up until now, I have only heard a fraction of Japanese music and I've certainly not listened to a great deal of its rural melodies. 'Modern' paradoxically makes one curious with both its old and modern sounds. Norihide, like Alvo Noto, does complete this structure with his computer generated compositions. Norihide's smooth touch of digital beats on redemptive songs, performed with acoustic and also key instruments, transforms into true genius. The untitled track sequence starts off with a remote sounding beatbox in gentle conversation with the piano. Next is the mandolin on '#2' which has the beauty of an opening flower. Repetition builds a tranquil and fragile sound that wins warmth through a few very subtle off tune chords. 'Modern' isn't mechanical. Gradually, the instrumentation expands as the beatbox moves away to a greater distance. The initial juxtapositioning of acoustic and digital music eventually has a monk like purity in its sound. 'Modern' will appeal to listeners of both medieval and chamber music as well as to those who dig the digital.