Mitsune

Over the past decade or two, Tsugaru shamisen has become something of a contemporary craze in Japan, with players such as the Yoshida Brothers attaining semi-rockstar status. Originating in the latter half of the 19th century in Aomori Prefecture, the fast-paced, percussive style has captured the imagination of modern audiences – a trend that found a recent apotheosis in the 2016 Laika Studios animation Kubo and the Two Strings. Although relatively obscure in the West, a burgeoning international community of Tsugaru shamisen players is steadily growing. This includes Berlin-based trio Mitsune – consisting of Shiomi Kawaguchi, Tina Kopp and Youka Snell.

On this, their debut recording, they have devised original three-part arrangements of classic Tsugaru repertoire (‘Tsugaru Jonkara Shin Bushi’, ‘Akita Nikata Bushi’), min'yo folk songs (‘Soran Bushi’, ‘Yasaburo Bushi’), original pieces (the opening ‘Flying Dutchman’ and closing ‘Heat’) and even Erik Satie's ‘Gymnopedie No 1’. The rapport between all three members of the trio is consistently excellent – utilising tricks of harmony and counterpoint to lend new dimensions to a usually monophonic style. With certain players doubling on vocals and violin, as well as guest musicians on shakuhachi (flute) and percussion, this is a recording that maintains a sonically compelling atmosphere throughout. If you need a contemporary introduction to the world of Tsugaru shamisen, this is it.