© 2000 Lawrence Tuczynski

Title	Akira Ifukube Works For Orchestra
CD Label	Fontec
CD Number	FOCD2512
Music by:	Akira Ifukube
Music Conducted by:	Kazuo Yamada
Music Performed by:	Shinsei Nihon Symphony Orchestra
Number of tracks	6
Running time	51:15
Number of discs	1
Year of release/manufacture	1993

REVIEW

November 8, 2000 Tracks 1 & 2 were recorded live on May 13, 1980, Tracks 3, 4 & 5 on May 27, 1986 and Track 6 on September 12, 1979 at Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Track #1 is a slow to mid tempo tune with a hint of traditional Japanese sounds. At times this track sounded like something you might hear in a "Sinbad" movie. Track # 2 really picks up the pace and is a loud, fast piece, again with some traditional Japanese sounds. This is a really good action oriented piece. Tracks 3, 4 & 5 have a variety of tempos and sounds while track 6 is the longest piece here, clocking in at over 26 minutes. I found this CD to be delightfully refreshing and different sounding from most Akira Ifukube music. It's a real pleasant listening experience with a variety of styles and tempos. What I didn't hear on this CD were any hints of Godzilla or other kaiju music. If you're looking for Godzilla music then this CD is not for you but if you're an Ifukube fan, then this is a must have for your collection. *NOTE*: The first five tracks on this CD also appear on the CD "The Artistry Of Akira Ifukube 1" on King Records, # KICC-175

English Title: Akira Ifukube Works For Orchestra by Shinsei Nihon Symphony Orchestra conducted by Kazuo Yamada Japanese Rhapsody (1935) 1. I. Nocturne 2. II. Fete Triptyque Aborigene(1987) 3. I. Payses "Tempo di JIMKUU" 4. II. TIMBE non regional 5. III. PAKKAI "chant d'AINO" 6. LAUDA CONCERTATA per Orchestra e Marimba (1979)