Ondekoza
Ondekoza-1
Victor (Japan) 197x
KVX-1037 (LP) w/obi(SPSE/TOC: two tears and tapes, wrinkles), insert.
sleeve : VG+(SOC, some wear on edge and corner, dirts.)
media : EX/EX(some slightly noise.)
Formed in 1969 by artistic director Tagayasu Den and young people from Sado Island, the taiko drum ensemble Ondekoza released this magnificent debut album in 1977. Side A opens with track A1: a prelude beginning with earth-shaking rhythms of the large taiko, flute tones drifting in like distant wind, and percussive accents shimmering in sync with the drumbeat. As time unfolds, the tension steadily rises, and the powerful shouts—like cries of the soul—draw the listener into a trance state. A2 immerses you in a meditative soundscape created by the flute. On side B, track B1 features the taut, percussive strikes of the Tsugaru shamisen, evoking images of raging waves, while B2 delivers the festive “Yatai-bayashi,” driven by a grooving, off-beat rhythm of explosive energy. This is an extraordinary record that lets you physically experience the primal rhythms etched into the DNA of the Japanese people—music that stirs the heart without fail. Every track is outstanding.