As we enter 2009, here is a look back at our favorite posts from last year — including Q&As and interviews with Tuareg freedom singers, Japanese-infused prog metallists, and a regretful folk rapper as well as columns, top-ten lists, Lollapalooza coverage, and our DIY venue spotlight. (more…)
Infusing traditional Japanese sounds with shredding, progressive metal, Tsugaru-shamisen master Kevin Kmetz creates a high-speed cultural collision with his band God of Shamisen.
The group released a phenomenal full-length late this year on Reptile Records, and now Kmetz is working on a major-label release for EMI Japan.
After the jump, you can watch a few exclusive videos of the group in the studio. Make sure to throw those horns up for the double bass, and be sure to geek out for the Star Wars cover.
(more…)
The London Sinfonietta celebrates its 40th anniversary with a series of miniature compositions; electro-acoustic madman Dan Deacon unveils a 15-piece live ensemble this week; prog/doom rockers Giant Squid announce details for their upcoming album; Fantômas has been added to Australia’s Big Day Out festival, and much more.
Led by Tsugaru-shamisen master Kevin Kmetz, Santa Cruz’s God of Shamisen creates cultural collisions in the form of shredding, Japanese-infused progressive metal. Scott Morrow catches up with Kmetz and bassist/producer Mark Thornton on the heels of the group’s full-length debut release.
Mogwais aren’t the only mythical beings in this week’s list of awesome albums. Check out five rad releases that involve hawks, batcats, gods, and dragons.
