“MUGENKYO”

This is the first CD by Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, recorded in 1997 by Neil Mackie, Miyuki Williams and Liz Walters.

The CD was recorded in an old church in South London with excellent acoustics, on analogue equipment: valve amps and mics, which retains the warmth of the deeply resonating taiko sound.

Every track was recorded “live” to preserve the energy of the moment. The CD contains some old favourites, which continue to be highlights of the Mugenkyo theatre show, and some rare pieces seldom performed live these days. This was a time of raw energy for the group as we developed our energetic style.

Track listing:

• Ikkyo (One Vibration)

The first song written by Mugenkyo. Still one of the all-time favourites, and popular at our live shows to this day.

• Kuzuryu (Nine-headed Dragon)

Named after an ancient legend from Fukui, this song features the hypnotic Shiburoku rhythm, a precursor of “Phoenix” which we play today.

• Onsen

Improvised solos, shouts, and energetic rhythms, building up to a spectacular climax.

• Kimai (Demon Dance)

Demons dancing and building up a storm, playing the Taiko like the fury, inspired by the famous Gojinjo demon drummers of West Japan.

• Tojimbo

The pounding rhythms rise and fall like the crashing waves of the Japan sea at the spectacular Tojimbo. Still a highlight of our live shows.

• Hikiami

Big powerful beats, swinging huge bachi in perfect synchronisation, based on the Miyake style of taiko which originated in the fishing communities of Miyake Island.

• Matsuri (Festival)

Happy festival rhythms with traditional percussion: Chappa and Chanchiki. We still end our concerts with this celebratory crowd-pleaser.

Total CD length: 48:26

     Players:

     Neil Mackie
     Miyuki Williams
     Liz Walters

 

Recorded at: Blackwing Studios, All Hallows Church, South London
Mastered at: Hiltongrove Studios, London